In a shift from its original strategy, Marvel will now introduce an Endgame after-credits scene of sorts. Following its recent debut online, the new Spider-Man: Far From Home trailer will now be tacked on following the credits of Endgame. While that might help to drum up interest for the July movie, we originally thought the decision to forgo a post-credits scene was the right call. Read on to find out why.
When the Marvel Cinematic Universe kicked off in 2008, the shared universe made an interesting call by having a post-credit sequence for Iron Man. After the film was all over, we saw Nick Fury introducing Tony Stark to the concept known as the Avengers Initiative. Post-credit sequences weren't a new thing, but it's something that became something to look forward to for Marvel movies.
In the 20 movies taking place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe thereafter, there has been a mid or post-credits sequence--and sometimes both--revealing an inkling of information as to where the next big movie is headed (although some are just well-crafted jokes). However, Avengers: Endgame is the first movie in the history of the shared universe to not have a visual element at the end. There is an audio stinger, but it's not something leading to Phase 4 of the MCU.
Warning: Endgame spoilers below. If you haven't seen it yet, check out our review instead.
Was the decision not to include a post-credit sequence in Avengers: Endgame a good call? Without a doubt, yes. Aside from the fact that this all brings a natural conclusion to the Infinity Saga, even though Spider-Man: Far From Home ends Phase 3 now, we don't need to see what comes next because we get great resolutions during the final moments of the movie. We don't need to be hyped up for the next movie because the focus at the end of Endgame should be on where our favorite heroes end up before the credits roll. And there is a lot happening.
Thor decides to join the Guardians of the Galaxy, while passing the torch to Valkyrie to lead the Asgardians in New Asgard. The son of Odin has done all he can for his people, and he sees a new journey with new friends ahead. Also, a Guardians of the Galaxy movie with Thor and Peter Quill on the same team sounds like a delight. This also opens the door for Valkyrie to play that Thor role on a new Avengers team.
Steve Rogers also has a passing of the torch moment with Sam Wilson, who will probably take on the mantle of Captain America in future movies. Rogers returning to the past and spending his life with Peggy Carter is the closure we need for his story, after years of selflessness (although not everyone thinks so). In present day, we already have the makings of a solid Avengers team coming up with Sam Wilson, Valkyrie, Hawkeye, Winter Soldier, Scarlet Witch, War Machine, Hulk, Dr. Strange, Wong, and probably Carol Danvers. There are more I know I've missed, but even with Tony Stark and Rogers not available to be on the team in the future, things are looking up for The Avengers.
We all know Spider-Man: Far From Home is a few months away, and the MCU will continue afterward, so not having a post-credit sequence is a clean break from what's next for the shared universe. Avengers: Endgame leaves you with resolution, not a cliffhanger. We know change is coming, and we see it happen as the movie wraps up. It's nice to leave the movie when the credits start and not have to wait around in anticipation of something bigger. The audience doesn't need a little extra because there's a full plate of action, emotion, and most importantly, closure.
