Last year’s MCUOpens in a new tab backlog means we’ll be up to Hulk’s neck in new material in 2021. The festivities kick off with something original: the first TV show led by Kevin Feige and the movie side of Marvel, WandaVisionOpens in a new tab. The series sees Scarlett Witch and Vision living a bizarre retro-sitcom-style life; and it looks like the most surreal, weirdest entry in the MCU yet. Will such a strange approach work though? And will Marvel’s success on the big screen translate to the small? Based on initial reactions from critics who have watched the first three episodes, the answer to both questions is a resounding yes.
Marvel Studios
Marvel has delivered something that will appeal to comic book readers, fans of the two main characters, and lovers of vintage TV.
I love Wanda's story from the comics, and I'm really happy to see this series take inspiration from some of those iconic Vision and Scarlet Witch story lines and moments.
— Hector Navarro (@Hectorisfunny) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
Plus, the cast is having so much fun in the first three episodes, it was a blast to watch! pic.twitter.com/0nrCnIp1IwOpens in a new tab
Nerdist‘s own Hector Navarro wasn’t the only one who thinks the series’ unusual format works to create something different and exciting. Many shared that exact sentiment.
Three episodes into #WandaVisionOpens in a new tab and I. Am. Hooked. Not only is the series a loving recreation of classic television shows (everything beautiful), but the story is so compelling. Elizabeth Olsen & Paul Bettany are adorable and hilarious. My most anticipated didn't disappoint! pic.twitter.com/jZVE6zIlQBOpens in a new tab
— Kristen Lopez (@kristenlopez88) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
#WandaVisionOpens in a new tab is truly unlike anything the MCU has put out before. I can’t emphasize that enough.
— Brandon Davis (@BrandonDavisBD) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
It is a blast to watch. It is so committed to the sitcom structure of story telling that it feels like a bold risk - but it pays off and builds a mystery.
It is awesome. pic.twitter.com/NbGBsGLfmcOpens in a new tab
Some critics think that breaking the usual Marvel formatOpens in a new tab could be the way forward for the entire franchise.
Screened the first three episodes, which are all short but don’t feel that way, and just really enjoyed getting to experience the fun of this unique concept and execution. Marvel should lean into “different” more often. #WandaVisionOpens in a new tab
— Jill Pantozzi (@JillPantozzi) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
Watched the first 3 episodes of #WandaVisionOpens in a new tab yesterday. It's weird & hilarious in ways Marvel has no right attempting, but they nail it anyway. Then it sprinkles in just enough mystery to keep you speculating and fascinated. I'm so excited to see how far it can go. pic.twitter.com/7PIFQiUNxFOpens in a new tab
— Germain Lussier (@GermainLussier) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
I saw three episodes of WandaVision and I am hooked. They really go for it.
— Kevin Polowy (@djkevlar) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
This has to be one of the most ambitious (also weirdest) things Marvel’s ever done, and this is the studio that had 300 superheroes in their last movie.
It sounds like viewers will have a whole lot to digest and dissect from a series with so many layers to it.
There’s also plenty of praise for the show’s cast, including lots of adulation for Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany. And MCU newcomer Kathryn HahnOpens in a new tab is also earning a heaping of accolades as their wacky neighbor. (Not that we’re surprised.)
The entire cast of #WandaVisionOpens in a new tab is great and fully commited to the stylized approach but Elizabeth Olsen’s performance is truly outstanding and one of those “Man, if awards shows weren't snobby about superhero stuff, she would likely get an Emmy nomination” situations.
— Eric Goldman (@TheEricGoldman) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
#WandaVisionOpens in a new tab is nothing short of BRILLIANT. EASILY the MCU's boldest, most original & innovative venture thus far. The true genius comes from Jac Schaeffer's smart, sharp, witty, script & Bettany & Olsen's electric performances. I had the biggest smile on my face the whole time. pic.twitter.com/exu8m5Dtp9Opens in a new tab
— Griffin Schiller (@griffschiller) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
Oh and MAJOR shoutout to Kathryn Hahn for her scene-stealing moments! I have so much more I could say but will save it for the review. #WandaVisionOpens in a new tab pic.twitter.com/O4VFsjfxFZOpens in a new tab
— Griffin Schiller (@griffschiller) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
The characters and the settings are familiar, but #WandaVisionOpens in a new tab is unlike anything you've seen before. I am obsessed with all of the Easter eggs and pop culture nods from the sitcoms that inspired each episode.
— Amy Fulcher (@asthebunnyhops) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
And yes, #KathrynHahnOpens in a new tab steals the scene whenever she pops in. pic.twitter.com/d77k3gycHQOpens in a new tab
One of the few potential “issues” raised was that some viewers who are unfamiliar with the classic sitcom format might not understand certain elements of the show.
Though, I do wonder what people will make of this who don’t have a working knowledge of, say, Bewitched. Like, the b-plot of one episode is “Vision accidentally swallows gum.”
— Mike Ryan (@mikeryan) January 9, 2021Opens in a new tab
If that’s the biggest “problem” with WandaVision then the MCU’s return is going to be worth the wait.
