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After The Falcon and The Winter Soldier, the most direct and chronologically accurate next step in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is Loki (Season 1). While TFATWS explored the legacy of Captain America and the new mantle, Loki dives into the multiverse and introduces concepts that become central to the MCU's Phase 4 and beyond. However, your choice also depends on what aspects of TFATWS you enjoyed most.
Direct MCU Continuity & Chronology
- Loki (Season 1): This is the definitive next watch for MCU chronology. It picks up immediately after Loki's escape with the Tesseract in Avengers: Endgame, introducing the Time Variance Authority and laying crucial groundwork for the multiverse saga.
- Black Widow: While chronologically set between Captain America: Civil War and Avengers: Infinity War, this film was released after TFATWS and introduces Yelena Belova, who has a direct connection to the events and characters of TFATWS. It's a great watch for more spy-thriller action and character development.
- What If...? (Season 1): This animated series explores alternate timelines and introduces new versions of familiar characters. It's not essential for the main MCU storyline but expands on multiverse concepts introduced in Loki and is a fun watch if you enjoy seeing familiar heroes in new scenarios.
If You Liked Specific Elements of TFATWS
- For more Bucky Barnes/Winter Soldier: While there isn't a direct follow-up focused solely on Bucky, his journey continues to be referenced. Re-watching Captain America: The Winter Soldier or Captain America: Civil War can give you more of his backstory and character arc.
- For more political thriller/spy action: Captain America: The Winter Soldier is the gold standard for this genre within the MCU. Outside the MCU, shows like Jack Ryan or films like the Bourne series offer similar vibes.
- For more character-driven superhero stories: Hawkeye (which introduces Kate Bishop) or Moon Knight offer deep dives into individual heroes and their struggles, similar to how TFATWS explored Sam and Bucky's personal journeys.
Pro tip: The MCU's chronological order can be tricky. If you want to follow the story exactly as it unfolds, use an updated MCU watch order guide online. Many fans prefer release order for the intended narrative reveals, but chronological order helps connect the dots for characters and events.