Understanding Character Ages in Avengers: Endgame - A Comic Book Analysis

During the events of Avengers: Endgame, numerous character age discrepancies have left fans questioning the storyline. Particularly noteworthy is why Peter Parker, played by Tom Holland, is the same age as his friends five years after the snap.

The Comic Book Explanation

But isn't it supposed to be five years after Thanos' snap? Why is Peter the same age as his friends? The explanation lies in the realm of comic books and their unique logic. Comic book writers often face the challenge of maintaining a balanced narrative while adapting to the ever-changing storyline. The classic lesson from Stan Lee: “It was in the script” is frequently invoked.

This in-universe reasoning is consistent with other plot points in the Avengers and other Marvel movies. For instance, why did the original Avengers survive the snap, while Hawkeye’s family did not? And why did all the characters from the Guardians of the Galaxy series return at the same age as when the snap occurred?

According to the Russo brothers, the primary cast of the Spider-Man movies was affected by the snap, meaning the other half of Peter's school survived and are five years older. This decision ensures that the narrative remains coherent with the established continuity of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Metaphysical and Empirical Ties

Metaphysically, the universe follows its own rules, which may not align with our understanding of logic. Cosmic fields and metaphysical bonds determine outcomes. Characters like Rocket and Nebula survived the snap, despite seemingly unjustifiable connections, indicating that the universe operates on principles that go beyond our comprehension.

It's worth noting that the Marvel Cinematic Universe often prioritizes storytelling over strict logic. The X-Men series at Fox is a prime example of this, where plot holes and inconsistencies abound, but each movie still finds a way to move the story forward.

Conclusion

The character age discrepancies in Avengers: Endgame can be attributed to the overarching logic of comic books and the narrative demands of a multiverse. While it may seem illogical from an empirical standpoint, these plot points serve a greater purpose within the larger narrative. Comic book retcons, even seemingly nonsensical ones, contribute to the rich tapestry of stories and debates that define the genre.

Further Reading

For more deep dives into the logic (or lack thereof) behind the Avengers: Endgame and other Marvel Cinematic Universe movies, visit Marvel Fandom. You can delve into the detailed explanations and debates surrounding these and other aspects of the movies.