Where to Start with Marvel Comics if You've Only Seen the Movies

Published by Renee Powers, November 10, 2023


If you're a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and want to dive into the rich world of Marvel comics, you're in for a thrilling adventure. Just like how the MCU is full of intertwined storylines and callbacks to decades of movies and television series, Marvel comics offer an expansive universe filled with iconic superheroes, complex storylines, and a long history… but this can seem overwhelming to newcomers. While we strongly believe there’s no one right way to get started with reading Marvel comics, we know it can be daunting. Don't worry, we've got you covered with some essential tips to help you find your first Marvel comic book.

Captain Marvel Starforce on the Rise

Choose a Superhero

The first step to entering the Marvel comics universe is to choose a superhero or team that interests you the most. If you've enjoyed the characters from the movies, such as Captain Marvel, Iron Man, Scarlet Witch, Captain America, or Deadpool, consider starting with them. Selecting a character you're already familiar with can make the transition from movies to comics more seamless and enjoyable.


Think about the characters you love from the MCU and consider what aspects of their movie portrayal resonated with you. Was it Starlord's irreverence, Bruce Banner’s battle with his inner Hulk, or Spider-Man's relatable coming-of-age journey? Understanding what draws you to a character will help you find comics that align with your preferences. Because, trust us, those personalities all carried over into the films!


One thing to keep in mind is that the Marvel films don’t perfectly align with their comic book counterparts, so don’t be surprised if your favorite superhero’s power or love interest or story arc is unfamiliar to you. That’s part of the fun! For example, Kamala Khan, aka Ms. Marvel, uses hardened shards of light in her Disney+ series and subsequent feature in The Marvels. But in the comics, her power is what she calls “embiggening,” a type of shape shifting that allows her to change or increase the shape and size of parts of her body. This would likely translate into body horror on screen–not quite what Disney wants in a young adult series!


Black Panther by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Start with a New Run

The most daunting part about getting into comic books is finding a good starting point in a character’s comic book history. Given that Marvel comics have been around for decades, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to begin. A great way to avoid confusion is to look for a new run of comics.


Every few years, characters or teams get a new creative team to tell their story for consecutive issues, called “runs.” New runs often serve as a soft reboot, providing a fresh starting point for both new and long-time readers. These series usually have clear issue numbering, so you can easily follow the story from the beginning. The advantage of starting with a new run is that it typically offers a modern take on the character's origin and introduces new readers to their world. 

One of the first comic book series I read was Ta-Nehisi Coates’ run of Black Panther. As a fan of Coates’ work, I knew I could count on his literary style to convey the depth of this character that director Ryan Coogler also brought to the film. Not only was the comic book experience great, it made my experience of going to see Wakanda Forever even better!

Marvel Voice Comunidades

Don't Be Afraid to Read Out of Order

One of the great things about Marvel comics is that many stories can be enjoyed independently or as part of a broader narrative. While reading a series from the beginning is ideal, don't be afraid to explore standalone stories, graphic novels, or crossover events. These can provide a well-rounded understanding of your favorite character’s narrative, but it can also flesh out other characters’ backstories without requiring you to read every single issue.


One great way to explore is through the Marvel’s Voices series! This series brings together characters, authors, and illustrators from specific cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives to tell stories that celebrate those identities. For instance, Marvel Voices: Heritage focuses on Indigenous creators like Rebecca Roanhorse exploring the themes and wonders of the Marvel universe through a Native American lens. Similarly, Marvel’s Voices: Pride celebrates LGBTQ+ characters like Somnus and creators like Alyssa Wong in one special issue!

If you prefer a more immersive standalone experience, Marvel's vast library also includes numerous self-contained stories that offer a complete and satisfying reading experience in a single volume. These stories are a great way to dive into a character's world without feeling overwhelmed by a lengthy comic run. For instance, if you're a fan of the animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse, you can start with a new take on the character with a graphic novel like Miles Morales: Shock Waves, written by bestselling YA novelist Justin A. Reynolds and illustrated by Pablo Leon. Or try some of the traditional novels like Black Widow Forever Red by Margaret Stohl or Avengers: Infinity War Destiny Arrives by Liza Palmer.


Marvel Super Heroes Secret Wars comic book

Follow the Rabbit Hole

Once you've dipped your toes into the Marvel comics universe, you may find yourself drawn deeper into the intricate web of interconnected stories and characters. As you explore different superheroes and teams, you'll come across crossover events, team-up series, and character cameos.


Embrace this interconnectedness, but don't feel pressured to understand every detail right away. There is no one right or wrong way to lose yourself in the comic book world! Let your curiosity guide you, and if you encounter something unfamiliar, take note and explore it when you're ready. This "rabbit hole" approach can lead to exciting discoveries and a more profound appreciation for the Marvel universe over time. 


As you read more Marvel comics, you'll start to notice connections between characters, events, and storylines. Embrace it as a rich tapestry that enhances your reading experience. For instance, while reading Ant-Man and the Wasp comics, you might stumble upon references to the broader Marvel Universe, including the Avengers or the events of Civil War. Pursue those larger stories if they light you up! It can be so rewarding to read these larger multi-issue, multi-character narratives for a deeper understanding of Ant-Man’s place in the Marvel Universe.


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We’re so excited for you to start your Marvel comic book journey. This exciting, vast, and imaginative world weaves together so many of our favorite storytelling elements for a truly rewarding reading experience! Traditional novels aren’t for everyone, but reading and literacy can be enjoyed in a number of ways, including comic books. So choose a superhero you love, start with a new run, let go of expectations, and follow the rabbit hole. Soon you’ll be completely immersed in the colorful, action-packed, and emotionally resonant stories that have captured the hearts of fans for decades. Excelsior!

Hand selecting a book from a bookshelf

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