Marvel's small-screen adaptations have a rich history, spanning from the classic "Incredible Hulk" to the more recent Netflix series featuring Daredevil and Luke Cage. While previous attempts to integrate these shows into the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) often faltered (remember "Runaways" and "Cloak and Dagger"?), 2021 marked a turning point. Marvel Studios launched a new era on Disney+, creating interconnected series deeply intertwined with the blockbuster film franchise.
With the recent addition of "Spider-Man: Freshman Year," the 13th Disney+ Marvel show in just four years, we've compiled a ranking of the previous 12, reflecting the collective opinions of IGN's Marvel experts. "Spider-Man: Freshman Year"'s placement will be added later.
Disney+ Marvel TV Shows Ranked
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Secret Invasion
Disney+Surprisingly, "Secret Invasion" received overwhelmingly negative feedback, ranking as the lowest-rated Marvel series to date. Despite the source material's significance in Marvel Comics history, the adaptation fell short. Director Ali Selim's admission of not reading the comics highlights a disconnect. While MCU adaptations often successfully reinterpret source material, "Secret Invasion" lacked the necessary vision and execution. Its attempt to emulate "Captain America: The Winter Soldier"'s espionage tone was hampered by slow pacing, a poorly-received AI-generated opening sequence, the unceremonious death of a beloved character, and an underwhelming new character unlikely to reappear.
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Echo
Disney+A significant improvement over "Secret Invasion," "Echo" still falls towards the lower end of our ranking. Alaqua Cox's return as Echo delivers an action-packed story exploring her life on the reservation, balancing her powers, past, and relationship with Kingpin. A shortened episode count left some viewers wanting more. However, the series boasts impressive action sequences, notably a fight against Daredevil, and features a predominantly Indigenous cast and crew. While not as impactful as higher-ranked shows, "Echo" offers a unique and emotionally resonant addition to the MCU.
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Moon Knight
Disney+This Oscar Isaac-led series, despite its strong cast (including May Calamawy as Scarlet Scarab, F. Murray Abraham as Khonshu, and Ethan Hawke as Arthur Harrow), failed to resonate strongly with our voters. The exploration of Marc Spector's multiple personalities creates a dark and surreal story blending elements of various influences. While introducing a compelling new character, "Moon Knight" couldn't achieve a higher ranking or secure a second season.
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The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
Disney+Despite the strong chemistry between Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan, "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier" fell short of expectations. Murky moral dilemmas, heavy reliance on the Blip's aftermath, and a focus on espionage over action contributed to its lower ranking. Production delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted the final product. Nevertheless, the series' narrative elements are crucial to understanding the current MCU landscape, notably impacting the "Thunderbolts" film.
