Review: ‘WandaVision’ a different type of Marvel production

By Matt Pascarella

(This review does contain minor spoilers about "WandaVision.")

I’ll admit, when it comes to superhero cinema, I’m not a big fan. I liked Christopher Nolan’s ‘Dark Knight’ movies and Marvel’s ‘Ironman’ movies, but I’m not excited about or by superhero movies. Let me get to the point. Disney Plus’ “WandaVision” isn’t like every superhero production. First off, it’s a series. It’s a mixture of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and TV from a variety of decades, plus there are elements of mystery in it. Many questions that need answering.

Starting in the 1950s, each episode is in the style of a classic TV sitcom, beginning in black and white and moving to color. The superhero piece lies in that Wanda (Elizabeth Olsen) and her husband, Vision (Paul Bettany), both have superpowers and are trying to navigate each episode and fit in among ‘regular’ people. Wanda meets neighbors Agnes (Kathryn Hahn) and Geraldine (Teyonah Parris). You learn more about them later. There may be something going on outside the worlds Wanda and Vision live each episode.

The episodes feature classic TV introductions, as well as laugh tracks and even faux commercials. The episodes are fun and feature clues (I’m only guessing, I don’t know) as to what is happening to Wanda and Vision. For example, in episode two, Wanda finds a toy helicopter that is in color, when everything else is black and white, in the bushes outside her home. What does that mean?

Members of the community have been growing suspicious of the couple. Wanda worries the neighbors might discover their secrets.

Wanda has a somewhat big reveal at the end of episode two; Agnes tries to warn Vison about Geraldine but is prevented from doing so. More questions arise.

Wanda enters a new stage of her life after having a major life event in episode three.

Episode four takes the story away from Wanda and Vision. The FBI are searching for Captain Monica Rambeau. A few pieces of the puzzle fall into place here but more questions come up that need answering.

Episode five is ‘a very special episode.’ Wanda and Vision struggle with the new stages of their lives. Wanda and Vison become suspicious of Agnes. We learn more about Wanda’s past. More weird stuff happens. Wanda and Vison have a dispute. An unexpected visitor stops by.

This series is riddled with clues. And I love that – I just wish I could spot more of them. I definitely think Agnes knows more than she lets on and for some reason I don’t trust the director (Josh Stamberg).

What is up with Wanda and Vison?

I found the first five episodes to be very good. My only complaint would be some of the episodes do drag just a little, but overall, I recommend this series. I like the classic TV aspect coupled with the faux commercials. I look forward to seeing what the remainder of this series has in store. <