Introduction to Thanos in Infinity War vs. Endgame

The cinematic journey of Thanos throughout the Marywood of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been a fascinating exploration of one of the most iconic villains. However, when comparing his portrayal in Infinity War and Endgame, it becomes evident that different aspects of Thanos come to the forefront in each film, making him more relatable in some contexts than others.

Infinity War: Thanos' Humanity and Philosophy

In Infinity War, Thanos is depicted as more human and philosophical. The film focuses on the character's origin story, his motivations, and the internal struggle between his empowerment over the Infinity Stones and his existential beliefs. Through the narrative, Thanos is portrayed as a complex figure who believes in manipulating cosmic forces to balance the universe. Despite the atrocities he commits, his intentions, however villainous, may be seen as understandable by many viewers, hence the relatable nature of his character in this film.

Endgame: Thanos' Resolve and Personal Cost

In contrast, Endgame shifts the focus from Thanos' struggle to an even starker, more personal cost. When he wields the Infinity Stones and sees no other way to save the universe, the expenditure of Everything is brought to the forefront. Here, Thanos becomes a despondent, broken individual who loses everything in the process. This newfound vulnerability and the profound personal cost make his character more relatable as a tragic hero, resonating with audiences who empathize with the weight of his decisions and the consequences of his actions.

What makes Endgame particularly poignant is its emphasis on the moment of victory. The film underlines how Thanos' empire of ruthlessness comes crashing down, leading to his ultimate defeat and redemption through the efforts of the Avengers. The shift in his character arc towards desperation and loss makes him less of a cold, impersonal villain and more of a human being with flaws and a moral compass.

Why Does Endgame Relate Better to Audiences?

One of the primary reasons why Thanos in Endgame is more relatable than in Infinity War is that the narrative focuses less on the raw logic of his actions and more on the emotional and psychological impact of his choices. Instead of stripping the universe down to its last atom, the film illustrates the futility and the crushing weight of such a decision, ultimately leading to Thanos' downfall. The psychological trauma and moral reckoning depicted in Endgame are harder for viewers to overlook, evoking a sense of pity and understanding rather than pure disdain.

Why Infinity War Was a Disturbing Turn for Thanos

Conversely, in Infinity War, Thanos is portrayed with a level of creepiness and madness that makes him less human and more monstrous. His decision to weaponize the Infinity Stones and enact a plan to wipe out half the universe is chilling, and his justification of the action, even partially understandable to some, is handled in a way that emphasizes his ultimate detachment from the consequences of his actions. This portrayal, while effective in creating a more powerful and threatening villain in Infinity War, detracts from the relatability of his character, as audiences are less likely to sympathize with an alien who seems more interested in playing god than understanding the impact of his actions.

Conclusion: The Evolution of Thanos

The evolution of Thanos' character from Infinity War to Endgame is a clear testament to the dynamic nature of storytelling. While Infinity War presented Thanos as a more calculated and slightly understandable villain, Endgame humanizes him in a way that makes his fall from grace all the more dramatic. Both films are crucial in understanding the depth and complexity of the character, but it is in Endgame where Thanos becomes a figure that resonates more profoundly with viewers, inviting closer examination of the human element in his story.