Warning: Contains Spoilers
Those who have followed the Marvel Cinematic Universe for the past 11 years know that it’s always worth staying behind for a post-credits scene.
Such moments offer clues into what fans can expect from future films, and often spark the most theories during post-cinema drinks.
Of course, this time around has been different, with Avengers: Endgame concluding the 22 films in the Infinity Saga and making way for new adventures.
The first era of the Marvel Cinematic Universe is complete, with an exciting new phase about to begin.
And so – with the epic, narrative blending plot tied up with a universe-sized bow – there wasn’t a post-credits scene in the usual sense.
However, those who chose to stay put in their cinema seats until after the credits had rolled were rewarded with a snippet of additional audio to mull over.
As the Marvel logo rose up on the screen, emotional audience members heard the distinct sound of metal clinking against metal.
Although Marvel have not yet confirmed what exactly this noise is, or what it signifies, fans with long memories and an ear for detail have a pretty good idea.
Tony Stark’s self-sacrificing death brought the first decade of the Marvel Cinematic Universe full circle, and many believe this sound harked back to the very beginning of the saga.
The sound is thought to be that of Tony hammering out his mask in 2008’s Iron Man, a touching tribute to the fallen hero and to the Infinity Saga in its entirety.
Check out the original hammering scene for yourself below and see if it rings any bells:
This would certainly make a lot of sense, however other fans have offered alternative theories as to the origin of this metallic noise.
Some have argued it could well be the noise of Eitri the giant dwarf (Peter Dinklage) forging the Infinity Gauntlet.
As one of the most narratively important objects in the Marvel Cinematic Universe so far, this is certainly still something to consider.
If you haven’t already, you can catch Avengers: Endgame in cinemas now.
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Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.