Special Presentation from Marvel Studios
An ideal format for those who want variety in the MCU — here you have horror, comedy, and action without the need to watch a dozen interconnected films.
Disney+ launched the "Special Presentation" format from Marvel Studios in October 2022, starting with "Werewolf by Night." These are standalone episodes lasting 52-60 minutes that expand the Marvel cinematic universe without tying to the main timeline. Each presentation is a separate story with a unique visual style: "Werewolf" is shot in the style of classic 1930s horror, "The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special" is a comedy with musical elements, and the upcoming "Punisher" (2026) promises to be a "visual shotgun blast" according to the creators. The format allows Marvel to experiment with genres and attract independent filmmakers (e.g., Reinaldo Marcus Green for "Punisher") without risk to the main MCU line.
It is a format of standalone episodes lasting about an hour that expand the MCU without tying to the main storyline.
As of 2026, three projects have been released: "Werewolf by Night," "The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special," and "Punisher" is in development.
No, each story is standalone, although some characters (e.g., Punisher) may appear in future MCU films.
Chronologically: "Werewolf" (October 2022), "Holiday Special" (November 2022), "Punisher" (2026).
Marvel plans to release 1-2 special presentations per year to experiment with genres.