Avengers: Endgame holds a special place in the hearts of MCU fans—not just for its epic storytelling and memorable character arcs but also for its box office dominance. However, its impressive Rotten Tomatoes score has been outshone by another blockbuster from the franchise, Black Panther, and here’s why that’s something to celebrate.
Why *Avengers: Endgame* Still Shines
A Stellar Rotten Tomatoes Score
Avengers: Endgame boasts a commendable 94% on Rotten Tomatoes. This remarkable achievement is parallel to one of the MCU’s pioneering films, Iron Man, which kick-started the entire endeavor back in 2008. It’s fitting that both films mirror each other in scores, serving as bookends to the Infinity Saga while showcasing the evolution of superhero storytelling.
In this emotional high-stakes finale, Avengers: Endgame successfully ties up 22 interconnected films, providing a masterclass in franchise storytelling. Critics and audiences alike have praised its action sequences, emotional weight, and visual spectacle, cementing its place as a cultural phenomenon.
Audience Reception Mirrors Critics’ Praise
While critics grant it a remarkable score, audiences also sing its praises with a solid 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes. Yet, interestingly enough, this score is eclipsed by another film from the MCU…
*Black Panther*: The Unlikely Contender
A Higher Tomatometer Score
Released on February 16, 2018, Black Panther swiftly became a cultural icon, showcasing a Critics’ Score of 96%—outshining Endgame by a slim yet significant 2%. This film solidified the emergence of T’Challa as a superhero for the ages, elevating the character’s legacy following his introduction in Captain America: Civil War.
Black Panther‘s acclaim isn’t just a fluke; it was the first MCU film to garner an Academy Award, winning accolades for Best Costume Design, Best Original Score, and Best Production Design. Its success demonstrated that superhero films could deliver impactful stories replete with rich cultural contexts.
An Absorbing Narrative
Critics have praised Black Panther for its “absorbing story” and top-notch performances, making it a standout entry in the franchise. This film stands as evidence that the MCU can craft deeply resonant narratives outside of the Avengers ensemble. Despite being released during a peak period for the franchise, it indicates that standalone stories can indeed flourish within the MCU universe.
What This Means for the MCU’s Future
Exceeding Expectations
The current state of the MCU during the Multiverse Saga might seem shaky when compared to the Infinity Saga’s continuity, yet the critical reception of films like Black Panther signals hope. With Marvel tapping into fresh stories and characters, the franchise is poised to innovate beyond its established formulas.
Both Avengers: Endgame and Black Panther have set high standards that future MCU films can aspire to reach. By showcasing diverse storytelling and unique cultural insights, Marvel clearly demonstrates its versatility and ability to craft celebrated films that resonate with audiences on multiple levels.
In summary, while Avengers: Endgame has established itself as an anchor in Marvel’s cinematic history, the critical acclaim enjoyed by Black Panther adds to the franchise’s diverse narrative possibilities. With optimism for upcoming MCU titles on the horizon, fans can look forward to a future rich with less predictable yet compelling stories.
