As a lifelong Marvel fan who’s witnessed the rise of even the most obscure characters to cinematic stardom, I must say that “Agatha All Along” is a breath of fresh air. Kathryn Hahn’s electrifying performance as Agatha Harkness in “WandaVision” was a standout moment, and it’s heartening to see her get the spotlight she deserves.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe constructed its dominant status by focusing on lesser-known characters, demonstrating that exceptional storytelling and a unified brand could transform characters like Black Widow or the Guardians of the Galaxy into central figures. This was partially due to the fact that major franchises such as Spider-Man and the X-Men were licensed to other studios at that time. However, even by Marvel’s high standards, the Disney+ series “Agatha All Along” delves into the most obscure characters. Kathryn Hahn’s character, Agatha, a witch who survived Salem but encountered trouble with Elizabeth Olsen’s character Wanda Maximoff in Marvel Studios’ first TV production “WandaVision”, has never starred in her own comic book. The spin-off series for Agatha was primarily granted due to Hahn’s captivating performance, hence the earlier series, not Marvel Comics, is recognized as the source material for “Agatha All Along”.
In the nine-episode series, Agatha All Along, inspired by Hahn’s larger-than-life, boisterous, and quirky portrayal, stands out as a unique magical adventure. Critics have already previewed four episodes. Lately, Marvel has been struggling creatively and financially, with audiences growing tired of the frequent, similar, interconnected releases. Unlike its previous works, Agatha All Along offers a fresh take on its genre, requiring minimal knowledge of Marvel lore to enjoy. The key points are that WandaVision’s events have left Agatha powerless, confused, and stuck in the peaceful suburb of Westview. You can ignore other specific terms like the Darkhold, as they are not crucial to understanding the story. This series doesn’t focus on MacGuffins; instead, it’s about Agatha’s journey.
As a film enthusiast, I’m more interested in constructing a grand cinematic landscape that can accommodate the audacious and commanding character of Agatha, portrayed by Kathryn Hahn. Unlike typical protagonists laden with moral responsibilities or world-saving stakes, Agatha’s mission is straightforward – and if some aspects of the MCU witchcraft feel rushed or underdeveloped, it’s because they take a backseat to the primary objective: crafting an ensemble and designing scenes that complement the captivating energy needed to anchor a series. Throughout her career, Kathryn Hahn has masterfully navigated between comedic side roles (“Step Brothers,” “Bad Moms”) and profound, sensual lead performances (“Mrs. Fletcher,” “Tiny Beautiful Things”). With “Agatha,” we finally get to witness the unleashing of Hahn’s more eccentric acting talents.
The series premiere makes for a slow start, because it’s essentially a speed-run of “WandaVision”: a witch trapped in an illusion, several steps behind an audience that’s well aware Agatha isn’t actually a straight-talking, small-town cop named Agnes. (Even the obvious allusions to a small-screen trope — let’s call it “Mare of Easttown”-core — are straight out of its sitcom-scrambling predecessor.) It’s nonetheless great fun to watch “Agatha All Along” tug at the edges of this manufactured reality, as when “Agnes” drop-kicks a suspect off his interrogation chair or Aubrey Plaza drops in for some PG-13 rated sexual tension, smirking lines like “If you want to be in control, you can be.” And by the episode’s end, we’re treated to a reawakened, righteously angry Agatha stomping stark-naked across her lawn. The witch’s magic is still MIA, but her attitude is well and truly back.
The second episode serves as the foundation, clarifying Disney’s choice to premiere both parts concurrently before transitioning to a weekly release schedule. In this episode, Agatha is not only powerless but also being chased by enigmatic enemies, one of whom is the true, weapon-bearing form of actress WandaVision’s character, Toni (played by Kathryn Hahn). It turns out that her character isn’t actually the FBI agent she appears to be in Agatha’s bewitched state of mind!
The group in question is a team of experienced TV actresses over 35, comparable to the Avengers. Legendary Broadway performer Patti LuPone plays Lilia, a quirky psychic prone to unexpected prophetic outbursts; former “SNL” cast member Sasheer Zamata takes on the role of crystal-selling, potion-brewing Jennifer Kale; Debra Jo Rupp reprises her “WandaVision” character as a perplexed neighbor who unwillingly steps into a role she doesn’t comprehend but goes along with anyway. Each witch embodies a specific element and type of magic, such as Ali Ahn’s protective witch Alice. While the specifics may not be crucial, the enjoyment lies in watching this ensemble – including Patti! – burst into song. Although it’s not as catchy as the show’s title track, there’s a beautiful ballad that plays a pivotal role in the plot and even serves as episode titles.
In “Agatha All Along,” there’s a noticeable shift in humor compared to the typical witty style found in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The story begins with a Nancy Meyers-style dream home that transforms into a subtly terrifying abode, complete with a wine-soaked chaos. When Rupp’s handbag starts falling into a sinkhole, she exclaims, “This is from Talbot’s, and you can’t have it!” The atmosphere is more nostalgic and bordering on camp than its fellow franchise films. Essentially, it’s a more overtly gay style, which is mirrored by its depth. (The connection between Hahn and Plaza is clearly not platonic.) Agatha gains a gay admirer (Joe Locke) who follows her around, offering a humorous nod to Hahn’s real-life fanbase. The kid’s true identity is hidden under a curse, so everyone simply calls him Teen.
Despite some unclear aspects of its narrative, “Agatha All Along” remains consistently entertaining throughout. It’s filled with a delightful sense of fun and maintains a well-structured episodic progression as the coven travels along the Road. Agatha’s tantrums and scenically detailed waystations, such as a ’70s recording studio reminiscent of “Daisy Jones & the Six,” add to its charm. Unlike many Marvel projects, this one thrives not on its place in some grand long-term plan but on its own creative promise. Even in her weakened condition, Agatha still has a touch of magic about her.
You can now watch the initial two installments of “Agatha All Along” on Disney+. The rest of the episodes will be released every Wednesday.
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2024-09-19 04:17