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It has been 10 years since the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) took the world by storm, and Marvel Studios continues to captivate fans with blockbuster movies. For fans of the superheroes, it’s more than an event, it’s a universe we’ve dreamed of, since Marvel released the first “Spider-Man” and “X-Men” flicks.

Stan Lee’s larger-than-life heroes gave fans more than just hours of entertainment; they also imparted invaluable lessons.

The impact of these flicks has transcended cinema. Marvel films have become a big part of our lives.

“What makes Marvel movies so appealing are their deep ties to my childhood. The different Marvel movies collectively served as a playground where I could kill boredom and escape the loneliness of being an only child. They have allowed me to immerse myself in the universe by letting me put myself in the shoes of my favorite heroes.” —Paul del Rosario, University of Santo Tomas

“The way all movies in the MCU are connected really stands out. Having the movies intertwined makes viewers excited, and I think this is what made the MCU popular. Whenever I watch an MCU movie, it’s as if I’ve been waiting my whole life for that movie.” —John Magtibay, Lourdes School, Quezon City

“Marvel movies taught me that to be a hero, there shouldn’t be any general characteristics. The limitations and expectations of being a hero are all up to us. Our hero story is what we want it to be.” —Kyra Patricia Florendo, St. Scholastica’s College, Manila

“Marvel movies taught me that our choices make us who we are. These choices are what make us the heroes of our own world and that these choices give us power. This leaves us an important reminder from my favorite Marvel movie, ‘Spider-Man’: ‘With great power comes great responsibility.’” —Clyde Irvin Dimayuga, International School for Hotel and Restaurant Management

“What I like about Marvel is how it tells a narrative that urges you to watch the coming Marvel movies to find out how all the previous installments mesh with the future ones. For me, it’s also one of the movie franchises that can make men cry.” —Raine Joshua Gado, Mint College

“The Marvel universe, specifically Marvel films, taught me a lot of things—how to save the day, how to be in love and, simply, how to enjoy. From the action figures I have collected to the stunts I have tried to mimic—these taught me a very important thing, to enjoy. So basically, Marvel taught me how to enjoy my childhood to this day.” —Jose Jesse Cafuir, Atheneum School

“The MCU taught me that you don’t necessarily have to be a god or a superhuman to be able to help people. Sometimes, even the smallest acts could make you a ‘hero.’ It also taught me to fight for what I believe in even if I fight alone, as long as I know what I’m fighting for and as long as it’s the right thing to do.” —Myka Reyes, College of Saint Benilde

“Marvel movies appeal to me because they have always been part of my childhood. Ever since I was a kid, I’ve always been into Marvel comics. The special thing about Marvel is that it makes its characters relatable to the audience—they experience personal problems much like the rest of us. Through their comics and movies, they have shown me that not all heroes wear capes.” —Zoie Guevarra, De La Salle University

“Marvel movies have taught me a lot, too much for me to enumerate. Just to name a few, ‘X-Men’ taught me that being different is okay, ‘The Avengers’ taught me the true meaning of unity in diversity and social responsibility, and every other movie taught me how I can work for the sake of others. However, these aren’t the reasons I enjoy watching Marvel movies. Quite frankly, I only watch for the out-of-this-world special effects and awesome-looking characters that also make me want to be a superhero.” —Jacob Fuentebella, University of the Philippines Diliman

“One thing that caught my attention about Marvel is that it gives and teaches us life lessons which can serve as our guide. As a Marvel fan, I realized three things while watching Marvel films: ‘Never give up,’ ‘believe in yourself’ and ‘be you,’ just like heroes do.” —Lanz Cruz, Ramon Magsaysay High School

“Stan Lee once said, ‘Keep moving forward, and if it’s time to go, it’s time. Nothing lasts forever.’ Yet the heroes he created and the lessons we learned from them will stay in our hearts forever. His legacy will surely live on for all superhero fans of comics and cinema. Indeed, Stan Lee was a hero in his own right. The world lost a legend this year. Rest in peace, Stan Lee. No one could pull off a cameo better than you.” —Excelsior