"Captain America Movies: Watch Order Guide"

Captain America is making a grand return with his first standalone movie in nearly a decade, set to kick off Phase 5 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) with "Captain America: Brave New World." This film marks a significant shift, as Sam Wilson, portrayed by Anthony Mackie, takes up the mantle of Captain America, a role passed to him by Steve Rogers at the end of "Avengers: Endgame."

For fans eager to dive into or revisit Captain America's journey within the MCU before "Brave New World," we've curated a chronological list of his movies and the TV series where he plays a pivotal role.

How Many Captain America MCU Movies Are There?

There are 8 MCU movies and one TV series where Captain America is a central figure. If we include non-MCU made-for-TV and animated movies, the total exceeds 20. However, our focus here remains strictly on the MCU.

For a detailed, spoiler-laden overview of the events leading up to "Brave New World," check out IGN's comprehensive Captain America Recap: The Messy Marvel Timeline That Led to Brave New World.

Captain America Trilogy [4K UHD + Blu-ray]

This set includes "Captain America: The First Avenger," "Captain America: The Winter Soldier," and "Captain America: Civil War," along with bonus features for each film. Available at Amazon.

Captain America Movies in Chronological Order

Be warned, some descriptions include references to characters and plot points that are technically spoilers.

1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

"Captain America: The First Avenger" marked the hero's introduction to the MCU in 2011, wrapping up Phase One's solo superhero movies. This film explores Steve Rogers' transformation from a rejected military recruit to a superhuman warrior. It introduces Bucky Barnes, played by Sebastian Stan, and pits Captain America against Red Skull and Hydra during WWII, setting the earliest point in the MCU timeline.

Where to Stream: Disney+

2. The Avengers (2012)

Captain America returned in "The Avengers," teaming up with Iron Man, Black Widow, Hawkeye, Thor, and the Hulk to stop Loki's invasion of Earth, as teased in "The First Avenger's" end-credits scene.

Where to Stream: Disney+

3. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

"The Winter Soldier," released two years after "The Avengers," delves into espionage and conspiracy, featuring Captain America and Black Widow confronting The Winter Soldier, revealed as Bucky Barnes, now a brainwashed Hydra operative. This film also introduces Anthony Mackie as Falcon, who later becomes the new Captain America.

Where to Stream: Disney+ or Starz

4. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

Captain America reunited with the Avengers in "Age of Ultron" to battle the titular villain, portrayed by James Spader. The film's mid-credits scene foreshadows the Avengers' confrontation with Thanos.

Where to Stream: Disney+ or Starz

5. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

"Civil War," the highest-grossing standalone Captain America movie with over $1.1 billion worldwide, splits the Avengers into factions led by Captain America and Iron Man, respectively, with Helmut Zemo as the overarching villain. This film is notable for featuring nearly every major MCU character up to that point.

Where to Stream: Disney+

6. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

"Infinity War" initiates the Avengers' epic battle against Thanos. Captain America is part of the ensemble trying to thwart Thanos' plan to wipe out half of all life. Although they fail, Captain America survives the Blip, setting the stage for "Avengers: Endgame."

Where to Stream: Disney+

7. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

"Endgame" spans multiple timelines but concludes five years post-"Infinity War." Captain America and the remaining Avengers strive to reverse Thanos' Snap, leading to the monumental Battle of Earth. The film culminates with Steve Rogers passing the shield to Sam Wilson.

Where to Stream: Disney+

8. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021 – TV Series)

"The Falcon and the Winter Soldier" marks Sam Wilson's debut as Captain America in the MCU. Set six months after "Endgame," the series follows Wilson and Bucky Barnes as they confront the anti-nationalist supersoldiers, the Flag Smashers, led by Karli Morgenthau.

Where to Stream: Disney+

9. Captain America: Brave New World (2025)

Following "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier," "Brave New World" continues Sam Wilson's journey as Captain America. The official synopsis from Marvel states:

After meeting with newly elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross, Sam finds himself in the middle of an international incident. He must discover the reason behind a nefarious global plot before the true mastermind has the entire world seeing red.

Set likely in late 2027 or early 2028, this film introduces Harrison Ford as President Ross, who transforms into Red Hulk. For more insights, check out IGN's "Brave New World" review.

Where to Watch: In theaters starting February 14, 2025

The Future of Captain America in the MCU

After "Brave New World," Captain America is expected to appear in "Avengers: Doomsday" on May 1, 2026. While reports suggested both Anthony Mackie and Chris Evans would return, Evans has refuted his involvement. Captain America's presence is also anticipated in "Avengers: Secret Wars," slated for May 7, 2027, with Mackie hinting at his role in both films. The only officially announced cast member for these films is Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom.