‘What If…?’ Explores Team Dynamics and Squad Goals

Within the Marvel universe, the portrayal of female character collaborations has often been inconsistent. However, the animated series What If…? has illustrated an effective approach to assembling a diverse team of female heroes, ultimately delivering an impactful narrative.

Unlikely Allies Unite

The thrilling finale of Season 3 of What If…? featured an unexpected team-up of characters: Kahhori (voiced by Devery Jacobs), Byrdie (Natasha Lyonne), Storm (Alison Sealy-Smith), and the iconic Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell). Together, they faced off against Eminence, portrayed by Jason Isaacs, as he turned against The Watcher (Jeffrey Wright). The context of their alliance may remain ambiguous, but the execution is undeniably compelling. Byrdie serves as the technical expert, while Captain Carter and Storm provide formidable strength. Kahhori taps into her ancestral powers when the team requires it most, showcasing a balanced and productive collaboration.

The Strength of Teamwork

What sets this group apart from previous female ensemble attempts in the Marvel franchise is their seamless synergy. Rather than relying on individual strengths, they complement one another’s abilities, demonstrating the importance of teamwork in overcoming obstacles. This organic collaboration contrasts sharply with earlier efforts, particularly in Avengers: Endgame, where character pairings felt forceful and lacked depth.

Reevaluating Female Empowerment

A significant concern regarding the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been its inconsistent depiction of female character strengths. For example, the much-anticipated female team-up moment in Avengers: Endgame left many fans disappointed. In contrast, the episode of What If…? successfully showcases a natural alliance, making the case for the characters’ interdependence and their individual powers. Each hero plays a crucial role; Byrdie utilizes her tech skills while Kahhori and Storm leverage their powers for flight. Captain Carter adds her iconic strength and tactical prowess to the mix, particularly highlighted by Storm’s impressive wielding of Mjolnir, an image so striking it outshines many portrayals from Endgame.

My Expectations for Avengers: Endgame

Captain Marvel taking the Infinity Gauntlet from Spider-Man as Scarlet Witch and Valkyrie look on in Marvel's Avengers: Endgame. — (Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)

During a pivotal scene in Endgame, Captain Marvel seizes the Infinity Gauntlet from Peter Parker, receiving the reassurance that she’s not alone — a sentiment that felt unnecessary given her immense power. Fans recognized that Captain Marvel, with her unparalleled strength, is more than capable of handling challenges solo. This moment reflected a missed opportunity to convey female empowerment in a more authentic manner, unlike the supportive camaraderie depicted in What If…?.

The Power of Collaboration in What If…?

Throughout the show, the characters exhibit how their combined powers create an impactful force. Each member contributes effectively to the team, enhancing the narrative’s depth and emotional engagement. The prospect of seeing these strong female characters in a live-action setting would be extraordinary; nonetheless, the finale of this animated journey serves as a fitting tribute to their potential as a collective. Four powerful women taking on adversaries like Jason Isaacs is precisely the kind of celebration of strength fans have been waiting for.

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