Watch Marvel Studios: Assembling A Universe

Marvel Studios: Assembling A Universe is a documentary special that was broadcasted by ABC in 2014. The show is presented by Marvel Comics editor-in-chief Axel Alonso and Marvel Studios' executive vice president of visual effects Victoria Alonso. The special takes the audience on a journey through the Marvel Cinematic Universe and its production, giving a behind-the-scenes look at how the beloved franchise was created and developed.

The special begins with a brief history of Marvel Comics, explaining how it eventually became Marvel Studios. It then takes the audience through the different phases of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) - Phase One, Two, and Three. The show covers how each phase built upon the previous one, expanding the universe and introducing new characters and storylines.

There are a variety of interviews with the creators, cast, and crew of the cinematic universe. These include the director of the first Iron Man film, Jon Favreau; the president of Marvel Studios, Kevin Feige; and many of the actors who portray the iconic Marvel characters, such as Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man), Chris Evans (Captain America), and Tom Hiddleston (Loki). Hayley Atwell, who played Peggy Carter in the first Captain America film, also makes an appearance.

The show takes time to explore each of the major films in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, The Avengers, and Guardians of the Galaxy. It takes an in-depth look at how these films were conceptualized and developed, as well as how they fit into the larger MCU narrative. The special reveals how the filmmakers and actors brought many of the beloved characters from the comics to life for the first time on the big screen.

Marvel Studios: Assembling A Universe also covers some of the major events in the MCU. For example, it explains how the Battle of New York in The Avengers served as a turning point for the franchise, bringing together all of the characters in one epic crossover event. It also delves into the aftermath of the events in Captain America: The Winter Soldier and how they led to the creation of the television series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

One of the highlights of the special is the focus on how Marvel Studios' commitment to diversity has shaped the franchise. The show highlights the importance of casting people of color and women in prominent roles, including Samuel L. Jackson's portrayal of Nick Fury, Tessa Thompson's Valkyrie, and Danai Gurira's Okoye. The special also highlights the impact of Black Panther, which was the first Marvel film with an almost entirely black cast and a black director.

Overall, Marvel Studios: Assembling A Universe is an informative and engaging look at the creation of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Fans of the franchise will enjoy the behind-the-scenes glimpses and interviews, while those new to the franchise will gain a better understanding of the Marvel movies and their significance in the larger pop culture landscape. The special successfully manages to capture the excitement and creativity that went into the making of one of the most beloved franchises in recent cinematic history.

Marvel Studios: Assembling A Universe is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (1 episodes). The series first aired on March 18, 2014.