The MCU Phase 4 is perhaps its darkest yet, and here's why. Marvel films in Phases 1-3 were comfortably situated as fairly family-friendly works. They were embedded with light comedy, fun characters and great action. Phase 4, however, has taken a darker turn, and for very good reason.
Previously, the MCU began to touch on deeper issues in Phase 2 with Thor, feeling as though he's no longer worthy, and that he played a role in Thanos' success, becomes depressed. He drinks to numb his pain, and loses his muscular physique. This, however, is played for laughs and isn't treated seriously by the film.
However, the MCU shifts to a darker place in Phase 4. For instance, Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame.
Thanos' threat (though perhaps related to the Celestial emergence) was the biggest faced by the MCU to date. Everybody lost somebody, and the MCU has to show the character's coming to with that to emphasize how monumental the snap was. There was also some backlash as to how Thor was treated in Endgame which may contribute to how the MCU handles weightier topics, making Phase 4 darker where appropriate.
The characters of Phase 4 themselves also align themselves more readily to darker storytelling, such as Wanda and, as showcased by the trailer alone, Moon Knight. The MCU's way of exploring storylines in the aftermath of the snap further allows for deeper insight into characters. Doing this, too, through the powerful mode of TV series on Disney+ means there's more room for exploration which isn't possible in a 2-hour film, uncovering deeper layers to the characters.
Phase 4 is by far the MCU's most deep and introspective yet. Whilst some doubted how the MCU could possibly top its Thanos-sized conclusion to Phase 3, the unique tone shift of Phase 4 only propels its notoriety. Due to its ever-growing popularity, the studio can go beyond simplistic superhero fight narratives and engage in something darker without losing its loyal audience and making its universe more well-rounded as a result.
