The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is the highest-grossing film franchise in history. The 37 films released so far have grossed over $31 billion (£24bn) globally. With the latest entry in the saga, The Fantastic Four: First Steps, arriving in cinemas, this figure will only soar. However, Marvel hasn't always been the cash cow it is today, and in the 1990s, the company filed for bankruptcy.

From its early comic book origins to the box office juggernaut of today, discover how Marvel went from bust to a multibillion-dollar empire.

All dollar amounts in US dollars.