WandaVision has got me reflecting on the MCU again.
I like Marvel, I really do. I grew up reading the comics and for the last decade-plus, the movies have been a fun escape. From a cinematic experience though, the films can be somewhat lacking. A big part of this for me is that Marvel plays it too safe. Despite all of the weird characters and worlds they have, they never push things far enough. Sure, films like Guardians of the Galaxy, Doctor Strange, and Thor: Ragnarok were a step in the right direction, but they are still safe in their own way.
I think that dedication to playing it safe is what made me so curious about what the House of Ideas would do with the WandaVision series. The trailers showed off a strange sitcom-inspired aesthetic and the return of a character we knew was dead. Why is this show in black and white? How has Vision returned? There were so many questions but there was also the promise of something truly unique and different from all of the Marvel films and shows that came before it. WandaVision was a beacon of hope, signaling that Marvel might not always play it safe.
Maybe I had too much trust.
To be fair, seven of the nine episodes were a breath of fresh air, playing with expectations and setting up a truly interesting mystery. The eighth episode was a little exposition-heavy, but it still works. It felt at home with what came before. But the finale is a different story. It left such a sour taste in my mouth that I forgot how good the rest tasted. WandaVision was kneecapped right at the finish line. I can’t help but want to place blame.
With all of that in mind, this week on Stay Watchin, I share my thoughts on the highs and lows of WandaVision and why I had such an issue with the finale.
Missed the last episode of Stay Watchin? Listen now to hear why I hope that Zack Snyder’s Justice League is good… even though it probably won’t be.
Stay watchin, fam. Peace!
