A fresh take on Marvel’s ‘Agatha All Along’
A new chapter in the Marvel Universe
The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has a knack for turning lesser-known characters into household names. From Black Widow to the Guardians of the Galaxy, Marvel has proven that with the right execution, even the most obscure characters can become franchise staples. This trend continues with the Disney+ series Agatha All Along, which dives deep into the character of Agatha Harkness, played by Kathryn Hahn.
The rise of Agatha Harkness
Agatha Harkness, a witch who survived the Salem witch trials, first appeared in WandaVision, where she clashed with Elizabeth Olsen’s Wanda Maximoff. Despite never having her own comic book series, Agatha’s character was so compelling that she earned her own spinoff. This new series is a testament to Hahn’s captivating performance, which stole the show in WandaVision.
A magical journey
Agatha All Along is a nine-episode series that takes viewers on a magical quest. The show, created by Jac Schaeffer, who also helmed WandaVision, offers a unique genre and feel. Unlike other Marvel projects, it requires minimal knowledge of the MCU’s extensive lore. The series picks up with Agatha powerless, memory-wiped, and trapped in the idyllic suburb of Westview. The focus here is not on complex MacGuffins but on building a playground expansive enough to contain Agatha’s shamelessly selfish, domineering personality.
A cast of characters
The series features a stellar cast of TV actresses over the age of 35, forming a coven that embarks on the Witches’ Road, a mythical path that rewards those who survive it with their heart’s desire. Broadway legend Patti Lupone plays Lilia, a dotty clairvoyant prone to sudden outbursts of prophetic insight. SNL alum Sasheer Zamata portrays Jennifer Kale, a crystal-hawking, potion-brewing witch. Debra Jo Rupp reprises her WandaVision role as a clueless neighbor, while Ali Ahn plays Alice, a protection witch. The details of their characters are less important than the pleasure of watching this ensemble cast break out into song and navigate their magical journey.
A change of pace
Agatha All Along offers a sense of humor that deviates from the MCU’s typical quippy, Joss Whedon-influenced style. The first stop on the Witches’ Road is a Nancy Meyers fantasy that turns into a wine-fueled, tastefully neutral house of horrors. The mood is more referential and camp-adjacent, making it a refreshing change of pace from other Marvel projects. The energy between Hahn and Aubrey Plaza, who plays a mysterious adversary, is decidedly not platonic, adding another layer of intrigue to the series.
A journey worth taking
Even when the mechanics of its story aren’t entirely clear, Agatha All Along remains thoroughly enjoyable. The coven’s journey down the Witches’ Road is punctuated by Agatha’s tantrums and waystations set-designed to the gills. The series feels justified not by its role in some years-long master plan but by its own creative potential. Even in her diminished state, Agatha is still capable of some enchantment.
Stream now
The first two episodes of Agatha All Along are now available to stream on Disney+, with remaining episodes airing weekly on Wednesdays. Dive into this magical quest and experience the captivating world of Agatha Harkness.