So, You Want To Become A Marvel Fan

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Your Marvel Cinematic Universe Journey Starts Here!

Image Credit: Digital Spy

Stan Lee at an event for Hulk (2003)

Image credit: IMDb

Your love for Marvel starts with one man: Stan Lee, who was known for his work writing Marvel comics. Popularity sparked greatly for these comics, and hence, Marvel Entertainment was born. It changed—and still changes—lives for generations with the creation of heroes to come.

Next came Marvel Studios, where every character you see on the page comes to life, making the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) franchise a huge part of superhero media. If you’re familiar with characters like Iron Man (a.k.a Tony Stark), Captain America (a.k.a Steve Rogers), and Spider-Man (a.k.a Peter Parker), then you’re on a positive start to becoming a Marvel fan.

The first MCU film to be released was Iron Man in 2008. The franchise continues to create films set within the same universe, similar to Marvel’s comics. Many compelling stories are told with new and old characters in each new film released. Over the past few years, Marvel Studios has brought life, heartbreak, and intense action to the screens. With 32 films (and counting), their fans are always left satisfied and craving for more.

Image Credit: IMDb

So, you’re wondering where to start. Well, your saviour is here! Provided by space.com is a list of Marvel films in chronological order. Watching every Marvel movie in order is the easiest and best way to get to know—and experience—the MCU.

Image Credit: IMDb

  1. Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)

  2. Captain Marvel (2019)

  3. Iron Man (2008)

  4. Iron Man 2 (2010)

  5. The Incredible Hulk (2008)

  6. Thor (2011)

  7. The Avengers (2012)

  8. Thor: The Dark World (2013)

  9. Iron Man 3 (2013)

  10. Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014)

  11. Guardians of the Galaxy (2014)

  12. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 (2017)

  13. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)

  14. Ant-Man (2015)

  15. Captain America: Civil War (2016)

  16. Black Widow (2021)

  17. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

  18. Black Panther (2017)

  19. Doctor Strange (2016)

  20. Thor: Ragnarök (2017)

  21. Ant-Man and the Wasp (2018)

  22. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)

  23. Avengers: Endgame (2019)

  24. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)

  25. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings (2021)

  26. Eternals (2021)

  27. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

  28. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

  29. Thor: Love and Thunder (2022)

  30. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

  31. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)

  32. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023)

(and counting…)

You’re probably looking at this list and regretting your curiosity, but don’t feel overwhelmed. Committing to a Marvel movie marathon—or as I like to call it, “The Triple M” —is not for the weak. Watching one or two movies a day is enough to begin your MCU journey. If you’re someone who really wants to get into the hype of Marvel, but has a busy life, take your time with it! Experiencing the excitement is not something that should be rushed.

Image Credit: IMDb

And if you’re too busy because you have homework, Mr. Stark will pretend you didn’t just say that. (You will understand that reference later in your journey).

After you complete the list (and I’m hoping you do), check out Marvel’s TV series. If you’re interested in learning about other characters or storylines within the MCU, the shows are a great way to start. Plus, most episodes are about 45 minutes. Many of the shows are part of the timeline as well, but because you’re new, I suggest focusing on the movies for now.

You will not regret your decision to join the Marvel fandom. I’ve been a fan since 2014, and I haven’t looked back. Once you’re in, you’re in for life. The characters become real and take over your personality—in a good way, of course!

The MCU is not just for entertainment. I have made friends and enemies since joining the fandom. We share our thoughts and theories and become immersed in the world of Marvel. Now, it’s your turn.

So, with that said, “I bid you farewell and good luck, morons!” - From your almighty God, Thor.

Hi, I’m Ailsa! I love diving deep into cinematic worlds, falling in love with fictional characters, and writing stories I hope to publish someday. And if you’re Marvel-obsessed like me, stay for the blogs (I can talk about this all day)! I’m also big into sci-fi and fantasy genres, whether it’s for novels or films.

Remember, “If you’re nothing without [the] suit then you shouldn’t have it.” So, here’s to finding your inner hero!

If you would like to read more of my writing, you can find me on Instagram!

So you want to get into Table Top RPG?

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Let me help you with that!

Image credit: War GAMER

Tabletop role-playing games or pen-to-paper role-playing games, istare a type of game where you play through a story through verbal speech. You can also play as anything you desire in any kind of world.  you desire. It has ’s even been said that games such as D&D are good for your mental health as they help improve social skills, help build confidence, and learn to express themselves through the characters that they create. In Tabletop RPGs you learn the perspective of other players.

An amazing example of a Tabletop RPG game is Dungeons and Dragons, which is the oldest RPG game.  It was created in 1974 by Dave Arneson and was recently brought back to popularity with the Netflix show Stranger Things where D&D is brought up quite often. There are other games such as “Blades in the Dark”, “The Quiet Year” and many more.

There are probably hundreds of reasons why people play RPG games., Years ago, when I was introduced to D&D years ago by my older brother, I knew that this was a chance to take my world-building, and story-writing skills to the next level and I took on the role of the DM.

I knew what world-building and story-writing skills I will be knew I needed to be a DM and have the chance to build amazing worlds with endless stories,I I went and asked some of my players why they enjoyed playing D&D and what made them interested to start playing. One of them stated, “It’s a game where you can go around doing things without real-world consequences and live a million different lives.” Another said, “To have an adventure in the safety of your own home and be able to get along and meet new people who have the same interests as you.”

IMAGE CREDIT: DICEBREAKER

So, you’re interested in Tabletop RPG and don’t know where to start? No problem! [AA1] When I first started, YouTube was my best friend. I learned almost everything I needed from it and there are so many people that will help with your D&D journey. I’ve always recommended finding a couple friends to start. Tell them that you’re all going to be playing a mind-blowing game— and hopefully that they say yes. If not, tell them they suck!  However, if your friends still say no, there are also so many online communities that are also in the same boat as you and would love to create a group to play.

Next, decide if you want to be a player or a DM., If you have a passion for world-building and storyline creation and want to create epic plot twists to mess with your characters, I think the DM role would be great for you. If you enjoy creating characters and participating in adventures with other players, then the player role is for you.

When it comes to roleplaying, you need to have fun with it and go with the flow. Once you get into it and start to overthink, the experience won’t be as memorable as it should be. It’s a game you play for fun, not to save the real world;, however, if you’re in a game and it’s time to save the world, then you can get stressed. Start easy, play with a group of friends you’re comfortable with, and like I told my players, remember to have fun and don’t stress— we’re all playing and learning for the first time we’re learning together.

Hey, I’m Valerie Robert! I’m a Dungeons and Dragons DM. I’d get your D20s ready because I’ll be taking you on an adventure into the world of Table top RPG games and why they’re taking over the world by a storm. For the past couple of years I’ve been intrigued with writing fiction, and decided to join the amazing world of Table Top RPG to take my skills to the next level, and have fun with my friends. I love being able to express my love for creating worlds and characters along with anything involving RPG games.

So before we begin our adventure, I’d love for everyone to please roll initiative.

Beginners guide to Anime! Five recommendations to get you started!

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Animation is one of the most beautiful forms of art. It involves movement frames that can bring a drawing to life. We on the western side call this a cartoon. Japanese cartoons or what they call “Anime” are a good way to introduce an art piece that has inspired globally. You maybe thinking that cartoons are for kids, but Anime is much more than that. Anime has a rich story and beautiful art that visually tells the narrative to another level. Not only it has inspired the animation industry but has reached a global phenomenon that enlightens people to be better.

Still don’t believe me, here are five Anime’s that can change your mind:

1. My Hero Academia - Boku no Hīrō Akademia

To start off with the list is a good all-rounder. What I mean by “all-rounder” is that it fits for anyone, whether that be an age group or a broad scope, this pick is a good entry for Anime. If you like quirky characters, high school, and superheroes–this Anime is for you!

This story is about a world where there are superheroes and villains. What's different is that having superpowers is normal. Our protagonist, Izuku Midoriya, is a 14-year-old boy who has no powers at all. But it did not stop him from chasing his dream, to be the greatest superhero in the world like his idol: All Might. He attends Hero Academy High School, where his idol is teaching; but he soon finds out a secret to his idol's greatness. Will he prevail and become a true hero?

Author FYI:

  • Mainstream (New season in the making)

  • Six Seasons with a total of 138 episodes!

Disadvantages:

  • Fanbase

  • Things can get annoying

 

2. Attack on Titan - Shingeki no Kyojin

Not liking the first? That's fine, here is something I got for mature audiences. If you like the 1900’s aesthetic, gore, and twists–then look forward to this!

This story is about a dreadful world where there are man-eating giants known as Titans. In order for humanity to survive they have built walls to keep them at bay. Our protagonist, Eren Jaeger, a 15-year-old boy who has joined the army for vengeance after the loss of his home. Together with his remaining family, fights the Titans and reclaims his home. Only to find out that the world is not what it seems…   

Author FYI:

  • Mainstream (Last episode is airing later this year!)

  • Four Seasons with a total of 88 episodes!

Disadvantages:

  • Violence and Gore

  • Too many lore, take notes!

 

3. Your Lie in April - Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso

Okay, maybe too mature to your liking. So, this is more down to earth with the life of a Japanese high school student. If you like romance, a slice of life, and music–then get ready for the tears!

This story is about a 14-year-old boy named Kōsei Arima. He is a pianist prodigy, winning many awards until the recent passing of his mother due to illness. Because of this, he had lost all of his motivation to touch a piano again. Until he met his classmate named Kaori Miyazono, she is a free-spirited violinist with a deep passion for music. They both embark and praise their respective musical instruments, which lights a spark for Kōsei to start again. As the school year goes on Kōsei slowly gains feelings for Kaori and plans to confess to her. Will their music connect further? Or is this a orchestrated finale?

Author FYI

  • Anime is finished!

  • One Season and 22 episodes!

Disadvantages:

  • Old entry (Not well known)

  • Prepare to cry

 

4. Death Note - (As is)

Not into romance? Okay, Scrap the romance and let's be the antagonist in the story. If you like cat & mouse games, suspense, and supernatural, then get your pen ready.

This story is about a 17-year-old student named Light Yagami. One day he finds a book that allows him to dispose of anyone with the power of writing their name. Upon this divine revelation, he uses this advantage to cleanse all evildoers–with the world's greatest detective on his trail. What’s wrong is that Light’s twisted ideals made a cult that praises him as a God. Will he prevail? Or suffer the consequences?

Author FYI:

  • Anime is finished!

  • Two Seasons with 37 episodes!

Disadvantages:

  • Old entry (but well known)

  • Dark and Grim

 

5. One Piece - (As is)

Finally, this one is the creator’s choice :) It’s a slow burn, but I promise you it will pay off. If you like adventure, friendship, and pirates, then set sail for a long voyage.

This story is about a 19-year-old man named Monkey D. Luffy. His dream is to find the legendary treasure the One Piece and become: King of the Pirates. In order to do that, he needs a trustable crew who also have dreams, to pursue and navigate the seas. With many mysteries and hardships, they battle through obstacles that challenge their dream. What journeys will Luffy encounter? Will he achieve this legendary treasure?

Authors FYI:

  • Mainstream (Ongoing!)

  • 20 Seasons and 1078+ episodes!

Disadvantages:

  • Very long but there are summarized seasons into a movie (Skips tear jerking scenes)

  • Recently made Live-action to summarize season one (abridges it though)

 

That's it!

Hopefully, I’ve convinced you with these five shows and feel free to disagree. If not, and wish to praise me then no need to thank me. I have blessed you with the honour of something that can be a hobby <3

Stay Cultured :)

レｲナーンマル・デウ・ロサリーオ

@the_Rey_Gun 

∧,,_∧

(´－o－)  =3 

( つ旦O

と＿)__) 

Be Better By Keeping It Real

Greetings Cultured one, My name is Reynanmar Del Rosario and I am an Anime Connoisseur. I have been watching Anime ever since I was a child, and I’ve always strived to be better by the amazing stories in the East. That being said, they’re many life lessons and enjoyment from the characters that made me who I am today. If you wanna know about: Anime, Japanese Culture, Cosplays, and Manga! You have come to the right place >:)

L I N K T R E E D O W N B E L O W

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“Accept everything the way it is.”
— Musashi Miyamoto

'Tis the Season

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It’s that time of year again: we’ve entered the last quarter of 2023. The Fall season of anime has kicked off in full session, and Winter is just around the corner—so let’s take a look at the best show that’s currently airing, and what’s coming down the pipe that should be on your radar! 

Currently airing: Jujutsu Kaisen (season 2)

Chances are if you’re already into anime, you’ve heard about Jujutsu Kaisen. In case you’re living under a rock though, or entirely new to anime, here’s a synopsis: 

*Official Promo poster for season 2, courtesy of Mappa studios*

Jujutsu Kaisen follows the story of a high-school boy named Yuji Itadori whose world is suddenly upended when he and his friends of the listless ‘Occult Club’ at his school encounter a legitimately cursed item that ends up attracting an evil spirit which attacks them. Desperate to fend off the attacking monster, Yuji eats the cursed item and later discovers that it was actually the petrified finger of a veritable demon, Sukuna Ryoumen, ‘The King of Curses.’ Now, imbued with power yet possibly at risk of losing control of his body to the evil within, Yuji is brought into the folds of the secret world of curse-fighting ‘jujutsu’ sorcerers. 

It's a great story that aptly walks the line between action, horror, and comedy, balancing them all just right for a potent and exhilarating mix delivered in crisp animation by MAPPA, a world-renowned studio that’s adapted lots of past hits like Chainsaw Man and Attack on Titan (which we’ll be covering later).  

We’re currently eleven episodes deep into what will be a 24-episode season, and right in the crux of the mid-season climax—so now’s as good a time as any to catch up or hop aboard and join the ride. I promise it isn’t as bland or cliché as your typical shonen (a show aimed towards a younger male audience). 

Now, for some upcoming shows you won’t want to miss!

Artwork courtesy of ‘Titanfolk’ on Reddit.

The Attack on Titan FINALE

Ladies and gentlemen: mark your calendars. Because on November 4th, it’s finally coming—the final part of the final season of Attack on Titan, an hour-and-a-half-long special, is bringing the critically acclaimed show to its climactic close, ten whole years after it first started airing. If you’re already a fan of the show, you know exactly how monumental this conclusion is going to be; if you’re a new watcher, then trust me when I say that all the hype that’s been surrounding this series for the better part of a decade is well-earned, and you’re going to want to be a part of it while you still can. Because the conclusion of Attack on Titan isn’t just the end of a series: it’s the end of an era.  

It’ll be a bit of a binge, but with just under a month left before the finale airs, you’ve theoretically got plenty of time to blast through (and digest) the first 88 episodes in time to join the world with bated breath. The characters are great, the world is unsettling, and it features some of the most compelling twists and person vs. person conflict I’ve ever seen. As someone who’s already read the manga and knows how the climax will resolve, all I can say is—prepare yourself.  

Because all the knives that the series has been steadily plunging into your heart over the years are about to get a tear-jerking twist. 

 

Solo Leveling

A niche pick, this anime is actually based on a manhwa (Korean comic) rather than a light novel or manga. Here’s a synopsis: 

Cover art of ‘Solo Leveling’ Volume 2, art by ‘Dubu.’

Ten years ago, [Gates] started opening up all over the world—mysterious portals that connect Earth to fantastical and paranormal realms full of monsters. While these monsters started spilling out the [Gates] and terrorizing the world, some members of humanity started spontaneously awakening superhuman abilities to combat them. Such people are called ‘Hunters,’ and the story of Solo Leveling follows the ventures of Sung Jin-Woo, who has a reputation for being “the weakest Hunter [in the world],” a measly E-rank. Though he’s technically ‘awakened,’ his physical abilities are barely beyond a normal human’s. Still, he remains a Hunter because the dangerous job pays well, and he needs the money to pay for his mother’s expensive medical bills... 

However, after an adventure into one of the [Gates] goes horribly awry, leaving Sung Jin-Woo as the only surviving Hunter, he awakens in a hospital to find that he’s somehow come to possess a new power—the ability to ‘level up,’ kind of like in video games. If carefully cultivated, this could potentially make Jin-Woo the most powerful Hunter in existence, capable of saving humanity from the threat of [Gates] for good.  

But where did this power come from? Why was it bestowed to him, the weakest Hunter? And what is its true purpose? It’s a story already abounding with mystery and intrigue, and it hasn’t even started airing yet! 

The show premieres in January 2024, so if it sounds interesting to you, I’d highly recommend checking it out in a few months! 

So there: now you know what you need to be watching right now, and what to look out for. Keep in mind this was by no means an exhaustive list—there are tons of good anime out there coming soon, and I’d encourage you to do some browsing on your own time!  

 Tune in soon for more updates—and stay cultured! 

Frame from season 4 of attack on titan by Mappa Studios, depicting one of my favorite characters, Reiner

Yo, fellow geeks! My name’s Garrett Johnson; I’ve been a geek for pretty much my whole life, playing video games, reading comics, watching anime—and I’ve developed a bit of a passion for critically analyzing it all! So you can trust that my opinions are both informed and reliable.

A bit more about me: I love to write, and my dream is to one day be a best-selling author, writing fantasy comics or books. I also like to sing karaoke, do fun voice impressions (to varying degrees of success), and occasionally come up with some “philosophical” one-liners (example below).

“To make no enemies is to make an enemy of yourself.”

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My name is Gregory, and I love all things Star Wars. I have growing collection of Star Wars figurines, and even a Star Wars lunchbox—my niece has the same one. I once almost bought a vintage Attack of the Clones lunch box on Etsy, until I noticed it was second-hand. Gross!! I recently attended Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023, in London England where I became a Star Wars super fan, and I’m already making plans to attend Star Wars Celebration Japan 2025 with my fiancé Alexandra (also a Star Wars super fan). I’m not a Star Wars expert, nor do I believe such a thing exists. Like music or art, Star Wars is subjective. I try not to take it too seriously. Enter the geekdom and may the force be with you!

Your One-Stop Shop for Everything Cultured

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Comics, movies, games, anime, manga: we cover it all here at Enter The Geekdom. So no matter what corner of culture you dwell in, or what fandom you’re a part of—how high your midichlorian count or power level is—we’ve got something for you with all the hottest takes, reviews, and recommendations regarding all things cultured!

So what are you waiting for? Enter the Geekdom!