30+ Hidden Messages We Never Noticed In Marvel Movies
By molly atherton
1 year ago
In a universe packed with super-suits, dazzling powers, and world-saving heroics, Marvel movies aren't just about mind-blowing action sequences and quippy one-liners. Oh no! There's a secret world of hidden messages lurking beneath the surface, waiting for eagle-eyed fans to uncover them faster than the Flash on a caffeine rush. Step into the realm where Stan Lee's legacy meets Hitchcock-level subtlety—because these films are as sneaky as Loki on a mischief spree.
1. Did You Notice That Hawkeye Gave The Black Widow Her Necklace?
Ah, the enigmatic Black Widow and her subtle yet telling fashion choices! That seemingly innocuous necklace she adorns—no mere accessory, but a whisper of hidden storytelling woven into the fabric of her character's journey.
(Image Source/ younewsamo)Have you ever noticed the Black Widow's necklace? If you have, you will notice that it is the shape of a small silver arrow. You'll probably have to pause and zoom in here. Perhaps this is a little hint at a romance. After all there was the Budapest trip together.Original content sourced from Femanin.com2. In Spider-Man: Homecoming, There's A Picture Of Bruce Banner In Peter Parker's Classroom
Ah, the meticulous world-building of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, where even the tiniest details are woven with care and significance! In the bustling realm of Peter Parker's high school classroom, amidst the cacophony of academic posters and cluttered bulletin boards, lies a hidden gem for the astute observer.
(Image Source/ comingsoon)If we look and zoom in at Peter Parker's home classroom in Spider-Man: Homecoming we can see that there is a picture of Bruce Banner in Peter Parker's Classroom. There on the "Wall of Science Heroes" is the one and only Dr. Bruce Banner, aka The Hulk!3. Principal Morita's Grandfather Actually Served With Captain America!
Ah, the meticulous tapestry of connections within the Marvel Cinematic Universe—where even the faintest brushstrokes of detail resonate with hidden tales and intertwined legacies. In the unassuming setting of the principal's office, amid the shuffle of paperwork and the air of authority, lies a discreet yet potent nod to a bygone era of heroism.
4. The Hulk Meets The Hulk...
Ah, the Incredible Hulk—an iconic character who's smashed his way across screens both big and small, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans. And tucked within the green-tinted chaos of The Incredible Hulk movie lies a delightful treat for the aficionados of the Hulk's storied history.
(Image Source/ Reddit)5. Iron Man's Tribute To The 1960'S Cartoon And You Probably Missed It!
Ah, the inception of the Marvel Cinematic Universe—an electrifying moment that kick-started a superhero revolution, and within the polished, technological world of Tony Stark's universe lies a hidden gem, a sonic tribute to the roots of Iron Man's legacy.
(Image Source/ bookright)In the first ever Iron Man film, there is a subtle tribute to the 1960s cartoon Iron Man. Remember when Tony calls Rhodes? Well the the ringtone that plays during this scene is actually the theme song of the old cartoon. Which is a subtle and nostalgic ode to its roots.6. Shuri's Favourite Movie Is Back To The Future Part II
Ah, the intricacies of technological marvels woven into the vibrant world of Wakanda! In that captivating moment when Shuri, the ingenious mind behind Wakanda's cutting-edge advancements, introduces her brother T'Challa to her latest creation—a pair of self-lacing shoes—the echoes of inspiration reverberate from a familiar corner of cinematic history.
(Image Source/ TheGeekTwins)This is not a fact that is explicitly said - but it is pretty obvious if you picked up the hint. During the scene where she is fitting T'Challa with her new self-tying trainer invention, she says that her inspiration came from the movie. Which of course, is Back To The Future Part II.7. The End Game Didn't Have Post Credits - WHY?!
Absolutely, the conclusion of a saga as monumental as Avengers: Endgame demanded a moment of reflection rather than a glimpse into what lay ahead. And amidst the silence that followed the credits, a subtle auditory tribute emerged—an homage that spoke volumes without uttering a single word.
(Image Source/ GameSoul)Or lack of them should we say. Endgame was an emotional ending and accumulation of 10 years of Marvel movies - of course it could not have a trailer for the next movie on its post credits. But did you hear the hammering sound? That's a tribute to the first iron Man movie, when Tony creates his armour in the cave. It's to signify the length of the journey.8. Howard The Duck Features In Avengers: Endgame And It's VERY Subtle
Ah, amidst the epic clash between the forces of good and the malevolent might of Thanos, a moment of unity unfolds, a congregation of heroes from across the vast expanse of the Marvel universe. And amid this grand assembly of familiar faces, keen-eyed viewers are treated to an unexpected yet delightful sighting—one that stands out amidst the throng of heroes.
(Image Source/ Twitter)If you watch closely at the point in the movie during the last battle where the Marvel heroes come to take their final stand against Thanos and his army, we can see many familiar faces gathered together. One of these is Howard the duck - whose pretty conspicuous.9. Hawkeye Becomes Ronin
Ah, the enigmatic transformation of Hawkeye, a shift that sent shockwaves through the hearts of fans and unraveled a darker facet of this usually steadfast Avenger. In the labyrinthine emotional landscape of Avengers: Endgame, the catalyst for Clint Barton's metamorphosis into Ronin lies in a heart-wrenching moment of loss.
(Image Source/ HeroicHollywood)Fans have been wondering why Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) becomes Ronin in Avengers: Endgame and now the answer has been revealed... During the movie Avengers: Endgame, Hawkeye has to witness his entire family disappear into thin air. Something inside him switches at this point and he then becomes a ruthless murderer who can be hired to kill, to take his revenge on the criminals of the world.10. The Ship In Guardians Of The Galaxy Is An Ode To An American Musician
Marvel Studios has mastered the art of embedding hidden gems within their cinematic tapestry, and the nod to Pat Benatar's musical influence in Guardians of the Galaxy is a prime example of their knack for subtle tributes.
(Image Source/ fandango)Marvel movies are always full of Easter Eggs and secret tributes. In the movie Guardians Of The Galaxy, Peter Quil's ship is called The Benetar, which is an ode to the American musician who is named Pat Benetar to pay tribute to the influence of her music.11. Each Star Force Uniform Represents Their Personality
In the cosmic ensemble of Star Force within the Captain Marvel movie, the subtle intricacies of the team's uniforms mirror the diverse personalities and individual identities of its members. Amidst the sleek and uniform appearance of their suits, the discerning eye can catch the nuanced variations...
(Image Source/ quirkybite)You may have noticed that each Star Force member's uniform is slightly different for each. For example the stars that are emblazoned on each member of Star Force's chests, you may have noticed there are variations. These vary according to each personality.12. During Captain America and Iron Man's Fight, Cap Quotes Himself
the gripping clash between ideals and allegiances, where Captain America and Iron Man find themselves locked in a tense confrontation within the tumultuous canvas of Civil War. Amidst the flurry of punches and emotional turmoil, a seemingly defiant retort from Captain America echoes through the chaos—a simple yet powerful phrase that holds a poignant connection to his past.
In Captain America: Civil War, during Captain America and Iron Man's fight, Tony tells Cap to stay down. Cap then replies by saying 'I can do this all day'. This is not a random statement, he's quoting himself back during a time when he was facing a group of bullies.13. The Grandmaster's Palace Honors Their Fallen Champions In Thor: Ragnarok
Ah, the vibrant and eccentric world of the Grandmaster's palace—a kaleidoscope of opulence and peculiarities that hides intriguing secrets within its walls. Among the ornate embellishments adorning the exterior of this extravagant edifice lie curious and macabre tributes that pay homage to real-life comic book characters.
(Image Source/ BuzzFeed)In Thor: Ragnarok, the Grandmaster's palace honors the fallen champions. Remember the heads on the exterior of the building? These are the tributes to real life comic book characters for example, the likes of Man Thing, Bi-Beast, Beta-Ray Bill, and Ares.14. Thor's Alter-Ego Is Donald Blake
Within the realms of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Thor's alter ego as Donald Blake isn't just a random moniker plucked out of thin air. It's a deliberate and respectful nod to the character's origins in the Marvel comics, a subtle homage woven into the tapestry of his cinematic journey.
(Image Source/ gamelegends)Thor has an alter ego in the film - his Earth alias that goes by the name of Donald Blake. Yet this is not random, it has a connection to the comic books, in which he used the exact same alias of Donald Blake. Marvel like to pay homage to the original comic books.15. In Captain America: The First Avenger There Is An Ode To The First Ever Superhero Created
Marvel's history stretches back to the Golden Age of comics, and one of its earliest superhero creations was indeed the Human Torch—a character that predates even the iconic Captain America. In the cinematic tapestry of Captain America: The First Avenger, keen-eyed fans can spot a captivating Easter egg that nods to Marvel's inaugural superhero.
(Image Source/ cbr)If you are a true Marvel fan, you should know that the first ever superhero that was created by Marvel was Human Torch. In Captain America: The First Avenger, at the beginning of the film there is a man encased in glass in the future technologies exhibit which is the original Human Torch.16. Those Famous Purple Pants!
Ah, the vibrant world of comic book inspirations that breathe life into the cinematic adaptations of Marvel's characters—The Incredible Hulk being no exception! In a charming and subtle nod to the character's iconic roots within the comic book pages, the film delicately weaves a cheeky reference through Betty Ross's thoughtful gift to Bruce Banner.
(Image Source/ pinterIn the movie The Incredible Hulk, the item bought by Betty for Bruce is a rather spectacularly vivid pair of large stretchy purple pants. This again has not been plucked from thin air, the inspiration for this is directly from the comic book version of The Hulk.17. Dr. Selvig From Thor Worked With Bruce Banner
Within the intricate web of connections and references that define the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the subtle mention of a colleague in Thor, described as a pioneer in Gamma radiation, indeed hints at none other than Bruce Banner—the brilliant scientist who transforms into the mighty Hulk.
(Image Source/ Marvel)In the movie Thor, Dr. Selvig describes a colleague who was a scientist that he once used to work with, he describes him as being a pioneer in Gamma radiation. So of course, this can be referring to one person only - which is Bruce Banner - aka The Hulk.18. The Avengers Quotes The Comic Books
Tony Stark's wry remark in The Avengers film, referring to the team as "Earth's mightiest heroes, that kind of thing," is more than just a casual line of dialogue—it's a direct nod to the iconic tagline that graced the covers of the Avengers comic books for years.
(Image Source/ wiki)Tony speaks to Loki and during their conversation he refers to The Avengers as 'Earth's mightiest heroes, that kind of thing'. This quote is not only a quote taken directly from the comic books, but it was the comic book tag line that appeared on each and every cover.19. A Teaser In Marvel
The very first Iron Man film didn't just lay the foundation for the Marvel Cinematic Universe; it also sowed the seeds for future connections and thrilling revelations. Amidst the captivating scenes of Tony Stark's suit construction, keen-eyed viewers were treated to a tantalizing glimpse...
(Image Source/ pinterest)In Marvel's very first Iron Man film, there is a scene where Tony is being fitted with his iron suit. During this scene, those with an eagle eye will realise that you can see a tiny glimpse of Captain America's famous shield placed on the workbench. This was a little teaser of what was to come.20. Rocket Wears Star Lord's Scarf In Avengers: Endgame
Ah, the subtleties woven into the fabric of Marvel's cinematic tapestry! In the grand ensemble of Avengers: Endgame, amidst the chaos and emotional gravity, a seemingly inconspicuous detail adorns Rocket Raccoon—an accessory that carries a poignant connection to a dearly departed fellow Guardian of the Galaxy.
(Image Source/ DigitalSpy)Pay attention and you might notice that Rocket wears a red scarf in Avengers: Endgame. You may be thinking so what's the significance? But it may seem familiar, because it is the exact scarf that Peter Quill - Star Lord- was wearing just before he disappeared.21. Killmonger's Suit Represents The Black Panther Comics
Killmonger's suit in the Black Panther film is undeniably striking and holds a deeper significance beyond its aesthetic appeal. The design of his suit, drawing inspiration from leopard print, is a deliberate homage to elements from the Black Panther comic books, specifically referencing his pet leopard named Preyy.
(Image Source/ sideshowcollections)There's no denying that all Marvel characters outfits are great. Killmonger's suit is cool, perhaps it's even a little bit cooler than T'Challa's. Killmonger's suit is inspired by leopard print which is a reference to his pet leopard which is called Preyy. This comes from the Black Panther comic books.22. A Pixar Shoutout
The A113 Easter egg has become a staple in numerous Pixar films, a playful nod to the classroom number at the California Institute of the Arts where many prominent animators and filmmakers received their education. However, its appearance isn't limited to just Pixar movies...
(Image Source/ orgoglionerd)Most of us are aware of the Pixar Easter Eggs is A113, it is in all the movies and has been going on for some years. It is a reference to the classroom at the California Institute of the Arts. And, it appears in the MCU world too. During the first Avengers film you can see A113 during a broadcast scrolling along the top of the screen.23. A Cultural Reference In Black Panther
The visual storytelling within Black Panther extends far beyond dialogue and action sequences—it's deeply rooted in symbolism and cultural references. The particular scene, where T'Challa, Okoye, and Nakia are shown with their distinct wardrobe colors...
(Image Source/ RadioTimes)[/caption]There is a scene in the black Black Panther movie where T'Challa, Okoye, and Nakia all look down at the floor of the casino. Those wardrobe colours are definitely no accident - red, black, and green. They paint the picture of the Pan-African Flag for a cultural reference.24. J. Michael Straczynski Is Not Worthy
In the Thor movie, after the legendary hammer Mjolnir crashes to Earth, a lighthearted scene unfolds where various individuals attempt to lift it, hoping to prove themselves worthy of wielding its power. Among those who prove unsuccessful in this endeavor is a cameo appearance...
(Image Source/ youtube)In Thor, after Mjolnir comes down to earth with a crash (literally) there a lot of people who witness the mythic hammer and try to see if they could be the one to lift it. One of those unsuccessful in lifting the hammer is J. Michael Straczynski - the writer of the Thor comics and other Marvel titles who is unworthy!25. An Ode To Jack Kirby in Captain America: First Avenger
The memorable scene in Captain America: The First Avenger, where Steve Rogers, clad in his iconic Captain America attire, theatrically pretends to punch a man portrayed as Adolf Hitler during a USO show, is a nod to the character's origins in the comic books.
(Image Source/ filmfan)During the beginning of Captain America: First Avenger there is a very memorable scene at the beginning of the film where Captain America pretends to punch Hitler during the recreation of the USO show. This is inspired from the comic books.26. Thor's Journey Into Mystery Is Taken From Thor
The reference to "Journey into Mystery" in the Thor movie is a clever nod to the comic book origins of the character and a tribute to Thor's early appearances in the Marvel universe. Before Thor received his standalone comic series, he made his debut in "Journey into Mystery" #83 in 1962.
(Image Source/ slideshowcollectibles)In the Thor movie, there is a billboard which promises a "journey into mystery". This actually came from an anthology series for Atlas Comics which features The Mighty Thor, even before the days where Thor was given his own series and only existed in comic books.27. Aaron Davis Brief Appearance Means More
In the Spider-Man: Homecoming film, there's a subtle yet meaningful Easter egg that nods to two influential figures involved in the creation of Miles Morales, the beloved Spider-Man from an alternate universe. During a scene where Peter Parker browses through files...
(Image Source/ Looper)When he briefly appeared, his file included the name Brian Pichelli which was his alias. The name is significant as it is an amalgamation of Brian Michael Bendis and Sara Pichelli. Brian Michael Bendis is a comics writer and Sara Pichelli is an artist, both of whom worked on Miles Morales' early comic book appearances.28. Scrapper 142 Has A Meaning
In Thor: Ragnarok, the character Valkyrie, portrayed by Tessa Thompson, is introduced in a memorable and unorthodox manner. Living in self-imposed exile on the distant planet of Sakaar, she's given the designation "Scrapper 142" by the Grandmaster, played by Jeff Goldblum.
(Image Source/ CNN)When Valkyrie is away from Asgard in Thor it is for a very long time, she is living as a crapper when Thor finds her. The Grand Master refers to her not by name but the number 142. It may seem like it is a random number - but Valkyrie first appeared in the Incredible Hulk comic number 142.29. A Nod To The Sign Language Community
The incorporation of sign language into the portrayal of Makkari, played by Lauren Ridloff, in Marvel's Eternals is a testament to the studio's commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Lauren Ridloff herself is part of the Deaf community.
(Image Source/ cinemablend)Lauren Ridloff is a part of the deaf community, and so is her character Makkari so Marvel wanted to incorporate sign into the films. They did this by using signs she frequently uses to be their super hero move. The sign used to represent Makkari, made close to the ear, reflects her love of earrings, and it was also the name sign used for Douglas Ridloff in real life.30. Iron Man 2 Includes Fing Fang Foom
Iron Man 2, in addition to the thrilling narrative, is laden with subtle nods and Easter eggs that reference Marvel's vast comic book history. Among these hidden gems is a blink-and-you-miss-it glimpse of an illustration that keen-eyed fans might recognize as a depiction of the iconic Marvel character, Fin Fang Foom.
(Image Source/ screenrant)In Iron Man 2, there is a modern illustration of Fing Fang Foom from the Marvel comics. Those among us who are eagle eyed may have noticed it already. Again, it is a clever way that the Marvel movies include hints from the Marvel comic books and include the origins of Marvel characters.31. Another Shout Out To Jack Kirby In Thor: Ragnarok
Thor: Ragnarok stands out for its vibrant and visually stunning aesthetic, which pays homage to the distinctive artistic style of Jack Kirby, one of the legendary artists and co-creators behind numerous iconic Marvel Comics characters.
Image Source / Wallpaper FlareThor: Ragnarok has a very specific look and feel to it, and this has to do with being a huge homage to Jack Kirby’s style as the Marvel Comics artist. He likes huge backdrops and strange looking armour, which of course Ragnarok is full of. His artwork is even replicated with the background for the Grandmaster’s box during the Thor vs Hulk fight.32. Did You Spot The Fake Infinity Gauntlet?
In Thor: Ragnarok, there's a memorable scene where Hela, the Goddess of Death, enters Odin's vault and dismissively identifies the Infinity Gauntlet on display as a fake. This moment carries significant implications, especially considering the attention Marvel fans had previously paid...
Image Source / TenorIn Thor: Ragnarok, Hela opens Odin’s vault and reveals a series of rather special items. One of these is the Infinity Gauntlet – which she walks up to, knocks off and says it’s a fake. This is further confirmed by the fact that Asgard’s Gauntlet is right-handed, when the one Thanos dons is left-handed.33. Korg’s Friend Miek
Korg and Miek, introduced in Thor: Ragnarok, swiftly became beloved characters within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), despite their limited screen time. Their portrayal in the film, especially Miek's, differed notably from their comic book counterparts.
Image Source / Shradda Eye HospitalKorg and Miek are now legendary characters, even with a limited amount of screentime, but Miek is quite different from the comics version of him. In Planet Hulk’s version of Miek, he’s actually humanoid and as big as Hulk himself due to evolution of his species, but in the movies, he’s a little slug-like creature by the end.34. When Shuri References A Real-Life Vine
Shuri's character in Black Panther, portrayed brilliantly by Letitia Wright, brings a youthful, tech-savvy energy to the film, and her "What are those?" line is a delightful nod to a popular internet meme that originated from a Vine video.
Image Source / Quiz-Bliss.comIn the Black Panther, Shuri is most definitely ‘down with the kids’, which means she’s fully aware of all the pop culture norms and various social media jokes – even if they’re outside of the Marvel world. But in one sequence, she looks down at her brother’s shoes and says, ‘What are thoooose?’ in reference to the famous Vine.35. The ‘Moonlight’ Cameo In Black Panther
Ryan Coogler, the director of Black Panther, demonstrated his admiration for the film Moonlight by incorporating a subtle yet meaningful cameo in the final scene of Black Panther. In Moonlight, Alex R. Hibbert played the younger version of the film's protagonist, Chiron.
Image Source / The Avengers - TumblrDirector Ryan Coogler was a big fan of the film ‘Moonlight’, and to show his appreciation even more, he included a Moonlight cameo with the actor Alex R. Hibbert appearing in the final scene in California in Black Panther, starring as the young boy who gets the final line in the movie.36. The Bucky ‘White Wolf’ Hint
In the post-credit scenes of Black Panther, we see Bucky Barnes, also known as the Winter Soldier, in Wakanda. The Wakandan children refer to him as the "White Wolf," a significant reference that holds implications for Bucky's future role within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
Image Source / YouTubeIn Black Panther, the post-credit scenes show Bucky in Wakanda, alive and well. The children of Wakanda here call Bucky the ‘White Wolf’, in reference to a person who will eventually become T’Challa’s most trusted soldier and head of the Wakandan secret police – hinting at Bucky’s importance as an ally to Black Panther in the war to come.37. Black Panther Vs Rhino
The scene in Black Panther where T'Challa faces off against the combat rhinos, particularly during the confrontation with W'Kabi's forces, draws inspiration from the rich history of Black Panther comics. In the early issues of Black Panther, specifically the battle between T'Challa and Killmonger, there's a notable showdown involving a rhinoceros.
Image Source / Animation World NetworkIn Black Panther, we see T’Challa fighting against W’Kabi’s combat rhinos. It’s a scene that’s actually taken from one of the earliest comics for Black Panther. In one of the stories, T’Challa fights Killmonger as well as a rhino. This was the clear inspiration for this scene in the movie, which may have felt random if you didn’t know he fought a rhino in the comics!38. The Everett Ross/Captain Marvel Hints
Interestingly, in the context of the MCU timeline prior to the release of Captain Marvel, there are subtle hints and possibilities that Everett Ross and Carol Danvers, aka Captain Marvel, might have crossed paths during their earlier days as pilots.
Image Source / VogueCIA man Everett Ross proves his skills as a pilot during Black Panther, and he was actually a pilot before he joined the CIA. At the time of the movie, before the release of Captain Marvel, the upcoming release of the Carol Danvers flick saw her being introduced as a young pilot… with hints that Everett and Danvers could have actually known each other in their piloting days.39. Trevor Noah’s Cameo In Black Panther
Trevor Noah's cameo in Black Panther adds a clever and subtle layer to the film. While it might not be immediately recognizable to many viewers, he lends his voice to the character of Griot, Shuri's A.I. system that assists Everett Ross during a pivotal aircraft piloting scene.
Image Source / CNBCThe Daily Show host and comedian Trevor Noah actually has a cameo in Black Panther, but it’s not one that’s immediately recognisable. He plays Shrui’s A.I. Griot, who helps Everett Ross pilot his fighter plane. Trevor Noah is of South African descent, and the word ‘Griot’ means storyteller in West African.40. The ‘Public Enemy’ Easter Egg
The inclusion of a Public Enemy poster in N'Jobu's apartment in Black Panther is a deliberate nod that carries significant cultural and historical weight. Public Enemy, a prominent hip-hop group, had a profound connection with the ideologies and activism associated with the Black Panther Party in real life.
Image Source / CinemaBlendIn Black Panther, there is an easter egg in N’Jobu’s apartment: namely, a Public Enemy poster. The hip hop group had a close connection with the Black Panther Party in real life, and their songs as well as music videos all revealed their affiliation with the Black Panthers.41. Peter Quill And The ‘Flash Gordon’ Reference
When Tony Stark, known for his quips and pop culture references, refers to Peter Quill as "Flash Gordon" in Avengers: Infinity War, it's more than just a playful nod to 1980s pop culture. The reference holds deeper significance due to the thematic parallels between Peter Quill and the iconic character Flash Gordon.
Image Source / LooperWhen Tony Stark meets Peter Quill, he refers to him – as is the norm with Iron Man’s famous nicknames – Flash Gordon. This was more than just a throwaway reference to the 80s – Quill actually resembles Gordon in more ways than one, as both characters are humans sent into space to eventually become heroes and take down some alien baddies.42. Stormbreaker Is A Shout-Out To The Thor Comics
The introduction of Stormbreaker in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Thor's new weapon holds significant ties to both comic book lore and Norse mythology. In the comics, there are several versions of Stormbreaker, one of which is depicted in the Ultimate Universe.
Image Source / MetroThor’s new weapon after sadly losing Mjolnir, the epic Strombreaker, is very similar to the hammer and axe hybrid which Thor used in the Ultimate Universe. The name Stormbreaker itself is a reference to the hammer that Odin has forged, too.43. Doctor Strange And His Balloon Animals
Tony Stark's quip directed at Doctor Strange about making balloon animals in Avengers: Infinity War is a clever reference that ties into a real-life comedic skit featuring Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange.
Image Source / RedditTony Stark is back with his epic one-liners, and in the case of Doctor Strange, he insults him by asking him if his only job is to make balloon animals. What could be dismissed as a funny quip, it’s actually a reference to when Benedict Cumberbatch appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and did a skit as Doctor Strange making balloon animals at a birthday party.44. Ebony Maw And Squidward
That moment when Tony Stark refers to Ebony Maw as "Squidward" in Avengers: Infinity War is indeed a hilarious and clever reference that merges pop culture with the MCU. "Squidward" is a character from the popular animated series SpongeBob SquarePants.
Image Source / HelloGigglesIn an iconic moment, Tony Stark tells Ebony Maw – who he labels Squidward – that earth is closed today. This is a nod to Spongebob Squarepants and the character Squidward Tentacles, who is – despite him admittedly being likeable – is a bit of a grumpy jerk, and the same could be said about Maw – who does look like him, too.45. The Uncle Morgan Reference
In the comics, Morgan Stark indeed exists as a character, and his relationship with Tony Stark is rather complex. Morgan is portrayed as Tony Stark's cousin, and their dynamic often veers into rivalry and conflict rather than camaraderie.
Image Source / Marvel Cinematic Universe WikiAs we know by now – and it still hurts – Tony Stark’s daughter who will grow up without her father is called Morgan. Originally, Tony told Pepper that they could name their future child after her ‘eccentric’ Uncle Morgan. Well, Morgan is actually a character from the comics – he’s Tony Stark’s cousin and a bit of a rival for Tony.46. Ebony Maw Fills Marvel’s Mephisto’s Boots In Infinity War
In the Marvel comics, Mephisto stands as a formidable antagonist, known for his manipulative and sinister nature. He's frequently portrayed as a powerful demonic entity and has crossed paths with various Marvel heroes and villains, including Silver Surfer and Thanos.
Image Source / Radio TimesMephisto in the comics is a foe of Silver Surfer, and also happens to be one of Marvel’s biggest villains. In the comics, Mephisto is one of Thanos’s lackeys. In the movies, Ebony Maw essentially fills the same role – just with less backstabbing – and even speaks one of the same lines Mephisto does in the comics.47. The Writing On The Chalkboard In Ant-Man And The Wasp
A delightful and clever Easter egg! In the scene from Ant-Man and the Wasp where Scott and Hope visit Cassie's school, the chalkboard displaying "the flowers that my aunts grow" is a playful and witty nod that embraces the pun-loving spirit of the Ant-Man franchise.
Image Source / RedditA little chalkboard easter egg for you – this one from the scene when Scott and Hope go into Cassie’s school. On the chalkboard in the classroom is the line ‘the flowers that my aunts grow’ – a great Ant-Man pun, and one which the set decorators must have had fun with.48. Cassie Lang’s Future Is Hinted At
Cassie Lang's aspirations to become a superhero like her father, Scott Lang (Ant-Man), in Ant-Man and the Wasp hold a significant layer of foreshadowing within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In that heartwarming moment between father and daughter...
Image Source / Marvel Database - FandomIn Ant-Man and the Wasp, Cassie Lang talks to her father about how she hopes to be a superhero one day – just like dear old dad. Of course, most children dream of being a superhero, but in her case, it’s foreshadowing because she actually does grow up to become a superhero.49. Earth 616
The reference to "vault 616" in Ant-Man and the Wasp when Scott Lang returns from the Quantum Realm is a clever Easter egg that holds a special significance in Marvel Comics lore. Earth-616 is a designation used within the Marvel Multiverse to represent the primary continuity.
Image Source / ComicBook.comWhen Scott Lang comes back from the Quantum Realm, some eagle-eyed viewers might have noticed that his van was parked in vault 616. This is a reference to Earth-616, which is the version of earth that most of our favourite MCU characters belong to.50. Korg’s Cute Pineapple Shirt
The pineapple shirt worn by Korg in Avengers: Endgame is indeed a nod to Taika Waititi's memorable fashion choice at the 2017 Comic-Con. Taika Waititi, the director of Thor: Ragnarok and known for his quirky sense of humor and style, made a striking appearance at the 2017 Comic-Con.
Image Source / Radio TimesIn that highly entertaining scene where an overweight Thor is too busy playing video games with his pal Korg to want to help bring back those who were lost, Korg is seen wearing a cool pineapple shirt. This is a shout out to Taiki Waititi’s legendary pineapple romper that he wore to 2017’s Comic-Con.