Marvel’s What If…? has wrapped up its first season, offering fans a unique glimpse into alternate realities within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. This animated series takes beloved characters and places them in scenarios that diverge from the established storylines, leading to unexpected twists and turns.
Key Takeaways
- The series presents a collection of short stories, each exploring a different hypothetical scenario.
- Chadwick Boseman’s voice performance as T’Challa is a poignant reminder of his legacy.
- The show highlights how one small change can drastically alter the course of events in the universe.
- The humor and tone reflect a shift from the earlier phases of the MCU.
- The finale brings together characters from various episodes to face a common threat.
A Series of Short Stories
What If…? feels like a collection of short stories, each episode presenting a different scenario. The pilot sets the stage, and as the series progresses, we see how these alternate realities unfold. The show ties everything together by the end, creating a cohesive narrative despite its episodic nature.
T’Challa as Star-Lord
One of the standout episodes features T’Challa as Star-Lord. This episode is particularly emotional, as it showcases Chadwick Boseman’s voice work. His portrayal of T’Challa brings a sense of nostalgia and loss, reminding viewers of his impact on the franchise. The episode also explores how T’Challa’s presence changes the dynamics of the universe, leading to Thanos taking a different path.
The Shift in Humor
As the series progresses, there’s a noticeable shift in humor. Episode three, for instance, features jokes that feel more aligned with the newer MCU style rather than the original tone. This change can be jarring for fans who appreciate the continuity of the earlier films. It raises questions about how humor has evolved within the MCU and whether it fits the characters’ established personalities.
Doctor Strange’s Descent
In another compelling episode, Doctor Strange’s quest to save Rachel McAdams leads him down a dark path. His desperation drives him to steal life essence, showcasing a more complex villain arc. This episode highlights how love can lead to villainy, a theme that resonates throughout the series.
The Zombie Episode
The zombie episode is a fun yet chaotic exploration of the Marvel universe. While it offers creative scenarios, some plot points raise eyebrows. For instance, the idea of Spider-Man’s webbing suspending characters in a zombie apocalypse seems impractical. However, the episode embraces the absurdity of the premise, allowing for entertaining moments.
The Finale and the Guardians of the Multiverse
The finale brings together characters from previous episodes to form the Guardians of the Multiverse. This assembly feels a bit forced, as the characters’ dynamics haven’t been fully developed throughout the series. The stakes are high, but the team feels like a collection of random choices rather than a well-thought-out group. The confrontation with Ultron raises questions about the characters’ capabilities and the writers’ decisions.
Conclusion
Overall, What If…? is an enjoyable series that offers a fresh take on familiar characters and stories. Binge-watching the episodes provides a more cohesive experience than waiting week-to-week. While it may not reach the heights of earlier MCU films, it serves as a fun exploration of alternate realities. The series leaves viewers with a sense of curiosity about what could come next in the multiverse.
As we reflect on the season, it’s clear that Marvel continues to push boundaries, even if some choices may not resonate with every fan. What did you think of What If…??