Directed by AC Bradley, the first episode of the Marvel series “What if…? Is available on Disney +. While the show will offer 10 episodes, here are our first impressions.
What If…? a first episode that lacks impact
Basically, the concept What If? is obviously from the comics. Marvel Comics have decided to release a whole range of graphic novels that focus on this concept. The idea is simple: resume emblematic stories from La Maison des Idées, to transform the terms, circumstances, issues or even the outcome. Marvel Studios therefore decided to develop the idea as an animated series. The first chapter of the series What If …? is available on Disney + since August 11.
And this first episode decides to focus on the film Captain America – First Avenger. In this alternative version, it’s Peggy Carter who gets injected the super-soldier serum to become Captain Carter. Steve Rogers is therefore in the background, replaced by a heroine who comes to thwart the male customs of the time. A logical and long-awaited mirror, which ultimately lacks surprises. The fault, also, surely, with a trailer which decided to show too much of it to its public. Obviously, connoisseurs can easily guess what will unfold during this alternate plot. Steve Rogers becomes the first Iron Man, and Captain Carter follows the same path as Captain America. She sacrifices herself (apparently) to return to the modern world.
What … If? : unlimited potential
This first chapter of What If …? is therefore lightly phoned, and lacks a bit of panache and impact. Likewise, the 30-minute format does not allow this concept to be developed in depth, although it is so enticing. The episode is a bit rushed, however the animation is superb, and this concept has no barriers.
Indeed, even if this first chapter is a little disappointing, especially compared to expectations, it does however bring a breath of fresh air to the Marvel universe. The potential What If…? is absolutely limitless, and can go to exciting alternative universes. Each film, each story can be taken up, transformed, improved. For this, however, it will be necessary more creativity in writing episodes, and not simply be content to offer a mirror story of the original film. We will have to offer more originality, and go even further in the representation of this What If…? But we trust Marvel Studios to go further, and thus offer totally mind-blowing episodes!
