Over the past few weeks, as conversations about the latest Marvel release have intensified, I’ve found myself repeatedly asked if I’d be joining the queue for Thunderbolts. My answer remains steadfastly the same: absolutely not. This isn’t a critique of an individual film or a disdainful glance at those who eagerly anticipate it. Rather, it reflects a broader disillusionment with a cinematic movement that has lost its charm and audience connection over time.

Why Walking Away from Marvel Feels Liberating

The allure of comic book adaptations once lay in their ability to craft engaging, standalone narratives without overwhelming baggage. However, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has transformed into something far more complex and demanding. Let’s delve deeper into why this shift occurred and how it affects fans.

A New Era of Mythology

Comic books serve as modern-day mythology, deeply embedded in Western culture, particularly American traditions. Yet, over decades, these stories have evolved into intricate webs of conflicting lore, characters, and timelines. For many casual enthusiasts, diving into superhero comics feels akin to deciphering ancient texts filled with esoteric references. Even during periods when I embraced comics wholeheartedly, Marvel and DC universes always seemed daunting due to their encyclopedic complexity. Instead, I gravitated toward fresher narratives like Tom Strong and Planetary, where the entire saga could be grasped from start to finish without needing a Ph.D. in comic history.This accessibility issue was precisely what the MCU initially resolved so brilliantly. By presenting well-loved characters through fresh, self-contained narratives, it invited millions worldwide to enjoy adventures untethered by decades of backstory. Films such as Iron Man, Thor, and Captain America redefined what superhero cinema could achieve, drawing audiences not just because of star power but because of compelling storytelling.

The Turning Point: Post-Endgame Era

However, after Avengers: Endgame concluded the saga that had captivated global audiences, Disney and Marvel faced a pivotal decision. They chose to expand rather than reinvent, filling the void with recycled plots and secondary characters. The result? A flood of television series and films that felt disconnected from the original magic, burdened instead by excessive continuity demands. Take, for instance, the initial slate of Disney+ shows—WandaVision, The Falcon and the Winter Soldier—and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. These productions weren’t merely standalone entries; they required viewers to piece together fragmented narratives woven across multiple platforms. What began as effortless entertainment transformed into a chore, demanding constant attention and retention of minutiae. Watching each episode or movie became less about joy and more about obligation, ensuring one didn’t fall behind in the ever-expanding Marvel narrative.

Finding Freedom Beyond Marvel

My breaking point came midway through Loki’s second season. As intriguing new villains were introduced and mysteries deepened, I realized the weight of keeping pace had become unbearable. Shutting off the screen wasn’t just about disengaging—it was liberation. Since then, every hour previously earmarked for Marvel consumption has been redirected toward meaningful activities, from family time to exploring other forms of media. It’s a freedom worth recommending to anyone feeling similarly trapped.Stepping away means severing ties completely. Trying to rejoin later would necessitate catching up on years of content, defeating the purpose of stepping back in the first place. In truth, Marvel’s evolution mirrors broader trends in contemporary entertainment—prioritizing user retention over quality creation. While financially successful, this approach risks alienating even its most loyal followers, transforming a once-beloved franchise into a mandatory cultural commitment.

Reimagining Engagement

Ultimately, the MCU's journey serves as a cautionary tale about balancing expansion with preservation of core appeal. Its early triumphs demonstrated the potential of accessible, thrilling narratives. But as it expanded unchecked, it sacrificed simplicity for convoluted intricacy. For those choosing to step aside, the reward is profound—a renewed sense of agency and freedom in deciding how and where to engage with popular culture.