The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has given us a plethora of characters to root for, but few have captured the audience’s attention quite like Loki, the God of Mischief. With the second season of the Disney+ original series “Loki” just around the corner, fans are buzzing with anticipation. To make the most of this upcoming season, it’s essential to revisit Loki’s journey through the MCU. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key films and series that have shaped Loki into the complex character we’ve come to love and sometimes loathe.
Open your account on Disney+ and you will have access to movies like Spiderman, Lightyear, Cruella and Pinocchio. You can also watch Star Wars series like The Mandalorian, Andor and The Book of Boba Fett.
The Genesis: Thor (2011)
Loki’s cinematic debut came in 2011 with the release of “Thor,” the fourth installment in the MCU. Portrayed by Tom Hiddleston, Loki is introduced as the adoptive brother of Thor, the God of Thunder. In this film, Loki’s cunning and manipulative nature is on full display as he orchestrates a scheme that leads Thor to be banished from Asgard. Seizing the opportunity, Loki ascends to the throne, ruling in the absence of their father, Odin. However, his reign is short-lived. Thor returns, and with the awakening of Odin, Loki’s treacherous plans are thwarted. Although he appears to meet his demise, Loki’s knack for survival ensures his return.
The Avengers Assemble: The Avengers (2012)
In 2012, Loki returned to the big screen in “The Avengers,” but this time as a pawn in a larger game orchestrated by the Mad Titan, Thanos. Captured intentionally, Loki’s presence serves as a catalyst to unite Earth’s mightiest heroes. His plan to sow discord among the Avengers backfires, inadvertently solidifying their alliance. Despite his efforts to unleash the Chitauri invasion upon New York City, Loki is ultimately defeated and taken back to Asgard as a prisoner, marking yet another failure in his quest for power.
The Dark Turn: Thor: The Dark World (2013)
Loki’s story takes a darker turn in “Thor: The Dark World.” Initially imprisoned in Asgard, Loki is reluctantly freed by Thor following the death of their mother, Frigga, at the hands of Malekith the Accursed. United by grief, the brothers join forces to avenge their mother’s death. Loki’s apparent sacrifice during the battle leaves audiences questioning his fate, only for it to be revealed that he has once again cheated death and is impersonating Odin on the throne of Asgard.
The Redemption Arc: Thor: Ragnarok (2017)
In “Thor: Ragnarok,” Loki’s impersonation of Odin is exposed, leading to a quest to find their real father. The film introduces Hela, the Goddess of Death, who poses a formidable threat to Asgard. Forced into exile on the planet Sakaar, Thor and Loki must set aside their differences to save their home. The film ends with the destruction of Asgard, but also marks a turning point in Loki’s character, showing signs of redemption and a repaired relationship with Thor.
The Final Moments: Avengers: Infinity War (2018) & Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Loki’s journey reaches a critical point in “Avengers: Infinity War,” where he meets a tragic end at the hands of Thanos. However, “Avengers: Endgame” provides a twist. During the time heist, the Avengers encounter a past version of Loki, who escapes capture, setting the stage for his own Disney+ series.
The Time-Traveling Variant: Loki (2021)
The Disney+ series “Loki” picks up from this point, following the time-traveling variant as he is apprehended by the Time Variance Authority (TVA). Partnering with TVA agents, Loki embarks on a quest to capture another rogue variant of himself, leading to a whirlwind of events that introduce new characters and set the stage for future MCU storylines.
The Animated Adventure: What If…? (2021)
Loki also makes a cameo in the animated series “What If…?” Here, he is seen enjoying a more amicable relationship with Thor, offering a glimpse into an alternate reality where the brothers are on better terms.
The Crossover: The Good, The Bart, and The Loki (2021)
In a non-canonical twist, Loki crosses over into the world of The Simpsons. This short film offers a lighthearted take on the character, as he interacts with Bart Simpson in a series of amusing escapades.
The Road Ahead
As we await the premiere of the second season of “Loki,” it’s clear that the God of Mischief has had a transformative journey. From villain to anti-hero, and now a complex character with multiple layers, Loki continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Make sure to catch up on these essential films and series to fully appreciate the depth of Loki’s character in the upcoming season.
Open your account on Disney+ and you will have access to movies like Spiderman, Lightyear, Cruella and Pinocchio. You can also watch Star Wars series like The Mandalorian, Andor and The Book of Boba Fett.
