Unforgettable Heroic Sacrifices in Marvel Movie History

Introduction

Some heroes' sacrifices won't likely be forgotten. On occasion, the heroes of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and other related franchises have been known to make grandiose heroic sacrifices, with the biggest often proving to be truly unforgettable. As the stories of the MCU seek to adapt the characters of Marvel Comics, they are packed with heroic figures who make equally heroic gestures. Of course, they’re always opposed by villains, and the resulting struggles aren’t always kind to the franchise’s protagonists. Sometimes, the movies of the MCU see their heroes forced into making heroic sacrifices. The phenomenon isn’t limited solely to the MCU, as many other Marvel movies feature similarly memorable moments of bittersweet heroism. As the majority of Marvel heroes regularly risk life and limb in the defense of others, it’s hardly shocking that occasionally, they pay a heavy price for their deeds. Even so, on those occasions throughout the MCU’s movie timeline when heroes have been forced to make impossibly selfless choices, it’s truly unforgettable. With that in mind, here are 10 of the most memorable heroic sacrifices in Marvel movie history.

Miles Morales and Peter Parker in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

Peter Parker Died To Save Miles Morales

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) features a poignant and unforgettable heroic sacrifice at the beginning of the movie. After Miles Morales gains his powers, he encounters Spider-Man and Kingpin, as the latter is experimenting with dimensional technology. While attempting to stop the villain, Spider-Man is also forced to protect Miles, ultimately costing him his life. As it’s a precipitating factor in Miles’ own journey to becoming Spider-Man, Peter’s sacrifice is both poignant and unforgettable.

Classic Loki about to be killed by Alioth in Loki season 1 episode 5

Classic Loki’s Alioth Distraction Cost Him His Life

Loki season 1 (2021) presents an unexpectedly heroic sacrifice by Classic Loki, played by Richard O’Brien. In an impressive display of power, Classic Loki conjures a massive and intricate illusion of Asgard, drawing Alioth’s attention to allow Loki and Sylvie to reach the Citadel at the End of Time. The act costs Classic Loki his life, making it an especially memorable heroic sacrifice.

Jean Grey using her telekinesis at the end of X2

Jean Grey Died Saving The X-Men

X2 (2003) showcases Jean Grey making the ultimate sacrifice to save the mutant heroes. As the mutant heroes are escaping the Weapon X compound, Jean Grey steps into the path of a tide of water, using her telepathy to allow the others to escape before it consumes her. The heroic sacrifice also set up The Last Stand’s Dark Phoenix storyline, making it doubly memorable.

Doctor Strange looking through the multiverse in Multiverse of Madness