Synopsis
Wanda embarks on a troubling journey revisiting her past for insight in to her present and future.
Review
When I learned that WandaVision would be pulling a clip show I was worried. It concerned me that clip show would interrupt one of the tightest narratives currently on the airwaves. Breaking up the story could have (at least temporarily) derailed the progress of the show.
I should have had faith that under the watchful eye of Marvel even WandaVision could pull off what “Previously On” achieves. Despite looking back to several key moments in Wanda’s life, the episode has its eyes thoroughly on the future. It succeeds in looking backwards to move infinitely forwards in a way which feels satisfying to her season long arc.
Ultimately there will be those disappointed by the series’ lack of an out-and-out villain. Going in to the finale it seems that either Wanda is that villain. Or we have a fast reveal coming very soon. With Agnes (Kathryn Hahn) emphatically stating she “needs” Wanda’s powers it’s clear she isn’t doing this out of malice. WandaVision could still be hiding a Mephisto up its sleeve.
What “Previously On” does drive home is the point that this is a series about grief. Specifically Wanda’s grief. Elizabeth Olsen retreads some early steps for her character beautifully. We go back beyond her Avengers: Age of Ultron debut to see young Wanda amongst her family. It’s a beautiful moment but one which also absolutely pulls the rug out from under the audience. The revelation that she has always had magical powers spins the MCU on its axis with plenty of ramifications to come.
The episode perfectly sidesteps the apparent lack of an appearance by Aaron Taylor Johnson to shed some light on Wanda’s interaction with the tesseract and Loki’s staff. This was the moment we previously understood that she got her powers. It seems that in that moment she witnessed a glimpse at her future. It’s another one of those moments where WandaVision has the audience on the edge of their seat.
Resolving to show us a tender moment between Wanda and Vision (Paul Bettany), we get to see the two together for the first time in a couple of weeks. It’s a small moment but one which easily reminds viewers why they’re invested in the characters and their relationship. Yes it does distract from the impending confrontation but it does so in ways which feel rewarding to the viewer.
Bringing us full circle to the start of the series we learn the true beginnings of the Hex and Westview situation. The moment of inception pushes the boundary of just how emotional the series can get. The literal breaking of Wanda’s heart becomes the true emotional core of the series, representing the physical and metaphysical cause of all this crazy.
As the season draws to a close I still think there is more to be say for Josh Samberg’s Director Hayward. His words with Wanda at S.W.O.R.D. feel a little too understanding of her powers. It’s clear he has other ideas in mind so watch for more around him in the near future.
Once again WandaVision has a mid-credit scene this week. One which certainly leaves jaws on the floor!
Verdict
With its penultimate episode WandaVision cleverly twists the classic clip show trope to suit its wicked purpose. With reveals still left in its arsenal the stage is set for a showstopper finale.
WandaVision stars the returning Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff and Paul Bettany as Vision. Joining them are Kathryn Hahn, Kat Dennings, Randall Park and Teyonah Parris.
Follow us on Facebook, on Twitter @GetYourComicOn, or on Instagram at GetYourComicOn. If you have a story suggestion email [email protected].
