The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is known for its spectacular storytelling and engaging characters. Over the years, it has also masterfully employed plot twists that have left audiences stunned and wanting more. Here are the ten best MCU twists that truly caught fans off guard:

1. The Mandarin Reveal (“Iron Man 3”): Audiences were led to believe that the Mandarin was the terrorizing mastermind behind Iron Man’s troubles, but it turned out he was just an actor named Trevor Slattery, a decoy for Aldrich Killian’s schemes.

2. Hydra within S.H.I.E.L.D. (“Captain America: The Winter Soldier”): The discovery that S.H.I.E.L.D., the very organization charged with protecting the world, had been infiltrated by Hydra since its inception was a game-changer for the MCU.

3. Ego’s True Nature (“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2”): Peter Quill’s father, Ego, initially appeared benevolent, only to be revealed as a celestial being with malevolent plans to take over the universe using Peter as his pawn.

4. Bucky is The Winter Soldier (“Captain America: The Winter Soldier”): Steve Rogers’ battle with the formidable Winter Soldier took a personal turn when he unmasked his opponent to discover his presumed-dead best friend, Bucky Barnes.

5. Killmonger’s Real Identity (“Black Panther”): Erik “Killmonger” Stevens shook up Wakandan politics and challenged T’Challa’s kingship upon revealing his true lineage as N’Jadaka, son of Prince N’Jobu.

6. Vulture’s Family Ties (“Spider-Man: Homecoming”): In a tense reveal, it’s uncovered that Adrian Toomes (Vulture) is actually the father of Peter Parker’s love interest, Liz—adding layers to their animosity.

7. Hela Destroying Mjolnir (“Thor: Ragnarok”): Thor’s mighty hammer Mjolnir was thought indestructible until Hela arrives and effortlessly shatters it, signifying the end of Thor’s invincibility.

8. Skrulls’ Misinterpretation (“Captain Marvel”): Initially introduced as the main antagonists, it turns out that the Skrulls were actually refugees seeking asylum from the militaristic Kree oppression.

9. Thanos Snaps His Fingers (“Avengers: Infinity War”): Despite all efforts of the Avengers and their allies to stop Thanos, he successfully collects all Infinity Stones and decimates half of all life in the universe with a snap of his fingers.

10. Nick Fury and Maria Hill are Skrulls (“Spider-Man: Far From Home”): In a post-credits scene twist, it’s revealed that Nick Fury and Maria Hill were impersonated by Skrulls for the majority of the movie, hinting at larger implications for future MCU stories.

Each twist not only created memorable moments but also drove forward important plotlines that continue to shape the MCU in surprising ways. Whether they involved personal betrayals or universe-altering actions, these twists have become iconic within Marvel cinematic storytelling.