Captain Marvel, Black Panther, and Spider-Man: The New 'Big Three' of the MCU?

As of the last knowledge update in August 2023, Captain Marvel, Black Panther, and Spider-Man have often been discussed as potential new members of the big three of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). This article explores the reasons behind their significance and the evolving landscape of the MCU.

Reasons for Their Significance

Captain Marvel (Carol Danvers)

Captain Marvel, introduced in the 2019 film Captain Marvel, has become a crucial figure in the MCU. Carol Danvers, originally seen as the Earth variation of the Kree warrior Mar-Vell, has undergone significant evolution in the MCU. She is now a super-powered alien who only somewhat understands life on Earth. Her character embodies the symbolism of power and redemption, making her a formidable addition to the Avengers lineup.

Black Panther (T’Challa)

Black Panther, played by Chadwick Boseman until his passing in 2020, became a cultural icon following the success of Black Panther (2018). The character showcases a blend of strength, leadership, and moral integrity, making him a standout in the MCU. His story is not only a heroic tale but also a reflection of African culture and heritage. Despite his passing, Black Panther continues to resonate with fans and remains a key figure in discussions about the future of the MCU.

Spider-Man (Peter Parker)

Spider-Man, portrayed by Tom Holland, has been a fan-favorite since his debut in Captain America: Civil War (2016). Tom Holland's performance has elevated the character to new heights, making Spider-Man a beloved figure in the MCU. He represents a new generation of heroes and a return to the classic Spider-Man story, setting him apart from the more complex characters of the past.

Context in the MCU

The Original Big Three

The original big three of the MCU—Iron Man (Tony Stark), Captain America (Steve Rogers), and Thor—played pivotal roles in establishing the foundation of the franchise. Their strengths and conflicts shaped the early narratives of the MCU and laid the groundwork for the ongoing series.

The Future of the MCU

The future of the MCU includes new stories and characters that could further shift the dynamics of its leading heroes. While Captain Marvel, Black Panther, and Spider-Man have significant potential to lead the franchise, the evolving nature of the MCU means that new heroes could emerge and play crucial roles as well.

Contenders for the New Big Three

Captain Marvel

Captain Marvel seems set to take on Thor's role, becoming the new super-powered alien of the MCU. She is our new, powerful character who only somewhat understands life on Earth. Her appealing backstory and powerful abilities make her a strong contender for a central role.

Spider-Man

Spider-Man is arguably Marvel's most popular character ever, and with Tom Holland's performance, he has become a fan-favorite. The MCU would likely build the next big act around him, following the same trajectory as the Iron Man storyline. His leadership skills and charismatic presence make him a natural fit for a central role.

Black Panther

Black Panther is in many ways a Captain America replacement. As an enhanced human with a strong moral compass, he fights with Vibranium weapons and wears a costume that symbolizes his country. His character fits well into the MCU's narrative and resonates with fans.

Other Contenders

While Falcon and Doctor Strange are also notable contenders, they may not take center stage:

Falcon (Sam Wilson)

Sam Wilson, chosen by Steve Rogers to be his successor, has the leadership skills and charisma to be a big player. He currently leads the full-time Avengers team, including Bucky Barnes (Winter Soldier), Wanda Maximoff (Scarlet Witch), and James Rhodes (War Machine). While he may not rise to center stage, it wouldn't be a huge shock if he did.

Doctor Strange

Doctor Strange, with his brilliance, arrogance, and willingness to focus on the ends instead of the means, seems poised to take over Iron Man's leadership role. He is likely to fight alongside whoever takes on the Captain America analog role, making him a crucial figure in the MCU's narrative.

Conclusion

While Captain Marvel, Black Panther, and Spider-Man are definitely contending for the top roles in the MCU, they are not the only contenders. Other characters like Falcon and Doctor Strange could also become part of the main group. If you forced me to pick three main characters for the next big act, I would go with Captain Marvel, Doctor Strange, and Spider-Man. However, this pick forces Spider-Man to be the Captain America analog, and I don't see him as that kind of leader yet. The evolving nature of the MCU means that new heroes could emerge and play crucial roles in shaping the future of the franchise.