Marvel’s animated series What If…? continues to captivate audiences with its imaginative explorations within the expansive Marvel universe. The latest episode, titled “What If… Agatha Went to Hollywood?” , presents a delightful twist, pairing Agatha Harkness with unexpected allies in a playful homage to classic cinema.
In this episode, Agatha Harkness, portrayed by Kathryn Hahn as a glamorous Hollywood star, finds herself at a crossroads. With the fate of the world at stake, she enlists the help of Kingo, played by Kumail Nanjiani, to produce a film that doubles as a strategic operation to thwart a threatening Celestial force located at the Earth’s core. The project is helmed by none other than Howard Stark, skillfully voiced by Dominic Cooper, with his loyal butler Jarvis (James D’Arcy) overseeing the magical chaos of the film set.
One of the standout features of this episode is its nostalgic nod to the glitz and glamour of old Hollywood. The creative pairing of characters not only elevates the storyline but also rekindles the joy of seeing beloved figures unite. Fans of Agent Carter will likely rejoice at the delightful return of Cooper and D’Arcy, who together reminisce about the magic of a bygone era. The interplay between Agatha and the Marvel cast adds another layer of enjoyment, showcasing the versatility of their narratives within the multiverse.
A significant aspect of this storyline is its clever integration of Kingo, a character who embodies the age-old Hollywood narrative of perpetual reinvention. His ability to convince Agatha to wield her newfound powers for altruistic purposes rather than self-serving motives offers a refreshing perspective on villainy. This thematic evolution echoes Agatha’s character development, especially highlighted in her previous story arcs, such as her collaboration with Billy Maximoff (Joe Locke).
Another Example of Why What If…? Rules
This episode further exemplifies Marvel’s unique approach to character arcs, particularly regarding moral ambiguity. Agatha’s journey toward embracing her better instincts adds depth to her character, showcasing her potential for growth beyond the traditional ‘villain’ stereotype. The nuances of her relationship with Howard Stark also hint at a compelling dynamic, one that may have rivaled his connections with figures like Peggy Carter.
However, one cannot help but wish for more content featuring this captivating quartet. The potential for a full-length feature film chronicling Howard and Agatha’s adventures in managing a studio of superheroes is tantalizing. Imagine Captain America making his cinematic debut before being frozen, with Bucky Barnes thrown into the mix. The imaginative possibilities here are endless, and fans would love to see these narratives unfold further.
With crossovers becoming a hallmark of the MCU, it doesn’t seem far-fetched to hope for the emergence of an “Old Hollywood Agatha” storyline. If characters from What If…? have already ventured into live-action adaptations, the door remains open for more explorations of Agatha’s character in future Marvel projects.
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