Summary

The article expresses unexpected enthusiasm for the Marvel series "WandaVision," praising its unique sitcom format and potential for compelling storytelling that appeals to both comic aficionados and casual fans.

Abstract

The author of the article initially underestimated "WandaVision," expecting it to be just "okay" compared to other anticipated Marvel series like "Loki" and "She-Hulk." However, after watching the first episodes, the author was pleasantly surprised by the show's innovative approach, blending a 1950s sitcom style with the Marvel universe. The series is lauded for its bold departure from traditional superhero narratives, with the author noting that Marvel's success since "Guardians of the Galaxy" has been built on breaking the mold. The article suggests that "WandaVision" is poised to continue this trend with its engaging storyline that draws from Wanda's comic book history, including reality-bending events. The author predicts that the show's mysterious overarching narrative will not only captivate viewers but also encourage repeated viewings, much like "The Sixth Sense" or the "Doctor Who" episode "Heaven Sent."

Opinions

The author had low expectations for "WandaVision" before its release, favoring other upcoming Marvel series.
After viewing, the author was impressed by the show's unexpected format and humor, particularly its use of a laugh track and classic sitcom tropes.
The article praises Marvel for its risk-taking and ability to successfully venture into unconventional storytelling within the superhero genre.
The author believes that "WandaVision" will be enjoyed by both hardcore comic fans and those unfamiliar with the source material due to its compelling narrative and execution.
The author suggests that the series' success is part of Marvel's pattern since "Guardians of the Galaxy," which also defied expectations and achieved critical acclaim.
Anticipation for future episodes is high, with the author expressing a desire to re-watch episodes knowing the full context of the story.
The author hints at a deep knowledge of Wanda's comic book history, including significant events that may influence the show's plot.

The Most Outrageous WandaVision Prediction You’ll Ever Hear

I think it’s going to be great.

And it’s only going to get better. That’s a mild surprise to me.

WandaVision is from Marvel. I always figured it was going to be at least okay.

Still, prior to the first episode, it was the other ones that excited me. Why couldn’t they start with Loki, or What If? No! With She-Hulk! Tatiana Maslany is an amazing actress. If you haven’t watched her in Orphan Black, trust me, you’re going to fall in love when She-Hulk hits. No pun intended.

But WandaVision? I was going to watch it and probably mildly enjoy it. Beyond that, I had no expectations.

It blew me away.

How does the pitch for the first two episodes go anyway?

Writer: It’s about Wanda and Vision.

Executive: From the Avengers? Wait, isn’t Vision dead?

Writer: Exactly. Only no. So, we’re going to start off in a straight-up sitcom situation. Not only that, it’s a sitcom from the ‘50s. We’ll have a hokey intro and everything.

Executive: That sounds a bit silly.

Writer: Not at all. Oh, and a laugh track.

Executive: Are we going to address the fact that Vision is dead?

Writer: Probably. Maybe. But not for several episodes. So, in the first one, he and Wanda host a dinner party for Vision’s boss. It’s going to be hilarious. We’ll set it up with a classic misunderstanding.

Executive: … I love it.

Writer: Wait until you hear about the pineapple sight gag.

Executive: What?

The pineapple sight gag. Only surpassed by the lobster sight gag. Image: Marvel Studios

There is nothing on paper that makes this work. Marvel doesn’t care. Making it work is what Marvel does. Ever since Iron Man 3. Wait, I mean Thor 2: The Dark World.

No, dang it. Okay. Can we at least agree on their success rate since Guardians of the Galaxy? That’s the real connection here.

I’m a comic geek. I knew the Guardians. But even I wondered if they were making a mistake. Instead, Marvel knocked it out of the park and proved they could break the mold with success. That’s what they’re doing with WandaVision.

I’m also familiar with the reality-bending nature of Wanda’s history. From her disappearing [REDACTED DUE TO POTENTIAL SPOILER INFORMATION] all the way to No More Mutants.

Given the millions of MCU fans, most of which are not comic book readers, this puts me firmly in the minority.

There’s no doubt in my mind that WandaVision is playing with similar themes to the comics. It’s obvious, really. And they’re doing so with a compelling storytelling technique.

I can’t wait for more.

But what about the fan that doesn’t read the comics? The fan that doesn’t maintain a Marvel Unlimited subscription for both entertainment and research purposes?

Here’s my theory. They’re going to love it, too. We’re all going to love it.

The overarching narrative, wherever it goes, is going to drive us not only to watch but to re-watch. This is like The Sixth Sense or my favorite Doctor Who episode of all time, Heaven Sent.

You watch it once. Then, knowing what you’ve seen, you watch it again.

The problem isn’t a slow narrative. It’s that we want to know what happens next. And that’s the best thing you can say about a story.

Is it Friday yet?

Scott Hughey is going to go read Vision and the Scarlet Witch, Vol 2 again to pass the time.