The Most Misunderstood Marvel Cinematic Universe Moment: Thanos Giving the Scepter to Loki

Many a time, we find ourselves scratching our heads over a certain scene in the MARVEL Cinematic Universe (MCU). In my own exploration of the MCU, I was quite puzzled by a seemingly incongruous moment in Guardians of the Galaxy. It wasn’t until another piece of the cinematic puzzle fell into place that I was able to reconsider my initial interpretation.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Carina’s Sacrifice

After watching Guardians of the Galaxy, there was a scene that left me quite baffled. During a negotiation with the Collector, Carina, his servant, grabs the Power Stone and is instantly decimated in a fiery explosion. Her last words were, “I will no longer be your slave!”

Given all the cataclysmic power of the stones, I assumed that Carina thought she could wield some of the power and escape. However, the grave consequences made me reconsider. I initially labeled her as unintelligent and moved on.

The Black Panther Revelation

The revelation came when I watched Black Panther. A line from the film resonated: "Killmonger pulls the dagger out of his chest and collapses" — and T'Challa’s response, “Maybe we can still heal you. Why So you can just lock me up Nah. Just bury me in the ocean... with my ancestors that jumped from the ships Cause they knew death... was better than bondage.”

This scene made me reconsider Carina's actions. Perhaps she was intelligent enough to understand the danger, but chose defiance over self-preservation. The idea that death was better than being enslaved stuck with me.

The Plot Hole: Thanos and the Scepter

One of the most perplexing moments in the MCU is when Thanos gives the scepter to Loki, even though he already possesses the Mind Stone. This seemed illogical as it would be foolish for Thanos to give up a stone he already had for one he didn’t know whether he could acquire.

In a deleted scene from The Avengers, Loki and the Other suggest that Thanos put the scepter in Loki’s hand because it was necessary to control the Chitauri. This was a gamble, as Thanos was too lazy to get out of his chair and lead the Chitauri himself. By giving the scepter, Thanos hoped Loki would acquire a second Infinity Stone.

This explanation offers context to a puzzle that initially seemed like a plot hole. It makes Thanos a bit less intelligent but more opportunistic.

For more insights and reviews on the MCU, check out my blog Film Reviews with Ethan J.