I watched the season finale of “WandaVision” seven times within the first two weeks of its release.
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) captivated me from the moment Tony Stark first appeared on screen. I still sit down for annual Marvel movie marathons with family and friends. But every time it gets to “WandaVision” — the MCU’s first foray into shows instead of movies — I get just as giddy as I was those first seven times.
The next on my rewatch-list, “Agatha All Along,” is a witty, intriguing journey back into Westview and an epic continuation of “WandaVision.”
Airing on Sept. 18, the two-episode premiere of the show fans have been waiting for “all along” follows Agatha’s (Kathryn Hahn) return with the same boisterous behavior that made fans fall in love with her in the first place. She’s joined by the hilariously awkward Joe Locke, playing the mysterious Teen, whose name neither Agatha nor the audience has learned yet. After breaking out of the spell she was placed in at the end of “WandaVision,” Agatha convinces a handful of witches to cautiously join her coven as they head down the Witches’ Road to regain lost power.
A cast full of wacky and wicked characters came together to make the premier what it is. The main stars take “wicked” to the next level with their acting styles. Hahn continues to capture the dramatic flair she had in the show’s predecessor while showing that there’s something deeper and darker at her core. Aubrey Plaza — who plays Rio — and Locke are amazing supporting cast members who help accentuate Hahn’s story. Playing Mrs. Hart, Debra Jo Rupp adds a necessary comedic beat without taking away from the larger theme.
Continuing the MCU’s trend of fantastic cinematography, “Agatha All Along” has phenomenal shots and creative editing. The cuts between shots are fluid and engaging. Unlike other action-filled shows and movies, the lighting is a perfect mix of gritty and visible.
The pacing is the only thing that felt lackluster. While it was significantly more intriguing than the first few episodes of “WandaVision,” Agatha’s journey through the loose ties of the predecessor felt rushed and poorly crafted. However, the second episode did redeem it, giving more details and allowing the viewer more time to breathe. If it continues the trend, I have no doubt the show will lead to a thrilling finale.
In her quest to return to her former glory, Agatha will take the MCU with her into the spotlight. Two episodes in and I’m already obsessed; I cannot wait to see what happens farther “Down the Witches’ Road.”
