The purpose of this paper is to review the spectrum of pathology revealed by cardiac magnetic resonance (MR) in the evaluation of myocardial infarction. In addition, the paper is intended to provide a concise introduction to the capabilities and limitations of MR in the evaluation of myocardial infarction and its complications. To provide this introductory guide, three cases of infarction are reviewed in detail, including one unusual case of infarction with both true and false ventricular aneurysm formation. A selected review of the literature is included to demonstrate the current role of MR in the work-up and follow-up of acute infarction.