Here’s my review of Wonder Man, the latest Marvel TV series. I have to say that up front I really didn’t fancy this one. In the end though, I liked it and I’m glad I watched it. This is a non spoiler review folks, so whilst I’ll get into themes I won’t go into too many plot specifics. That being said, there’s not a lot to spoil in Wonder Man. The plot is really not what one would expect from a show my Marvel set in the MCU.
A Different Marvel
For better or worse there is a certain amount of expectation going into a Marvel series about superheroes. Well, forget all that, at heart Wonder Man is a buddy story about two down on their luck actors that get a n unexpected break. Tonally, this is the kind of drama series I would not normally be too interested in. Yet, maybe that slight Marvel taste, along with some chuckles and real character development won me over.
Its light, breezy with a few different kinds of comedy and the occasional piece of major drama to work around. If this wasn’t made by Marvel it would still be a popular show, but probably with an entirely different demographic. The Marvel logo will bring in a demographic that’s less into this kind of show and turn away those that are. That’s a brave thing to do, but we shall see if it tracks with big viewing figures.
The Good
There’s a lot of good here, but the show is really nothing without the two leads. Sir Ben Kingsley and Yayha Abdul-Mateen II are this show. The meeting, relationship and budding friendship or two almost narcissistic personalities. That’s the core of the show right there and anything or anyone else is really just window dressing, including the super powers, which are wisely held back more than pushed forward.
There are a few secondary players in Wonder Man, and some funny cameos. However, there’s really no arcs for anyone outside of Simon and Trevor. We are in their world and everyone else is just along for the ride. The actors brilliantly make us care about two characters that are not that likeable on their own, but together can be. It’s well put together and the leads just smash it in every scene.
As for the super powered moments… Listen, Simon is not a hero, at least he’s not yet, not even close. The series is well written and has room for a sequel. But… Younger fans who are watching Marvel for the action may find Wonder Man lacking. I think Wonder Man is definitely more aimed at the parents, despite being perfectly suitable for minors to watch.
The Bad (Or maybe just Ugly?)
This is purely personal taste folks, but I did say there are several different comedic styles employed in this series throughout. Sadly one of them was cringe comedy and I really, really dislike cringe comedy. Instead of laughing at someone being embarrassing, I get embarrassed for them and It makes me feel uncomfortable. There were about 4-5 moments like this across the full series and as they appeared I honestly skipped past them usually after I realised what was happening.
If you like that type of comedy then you may well accurately (for you) rate Wonder Man higher than I have .
Realistically, that’s my only criticism of Wonder Man. I’m not sure if I want to see Simon Williams in the Avengers yet, but I think that’s the way I’m supposed to feel at this point.
GRADE: B+
Not my normal kind of drama I enjoy. However, it I’m glad I watched it as I enjoyed almost all of the series. It’s honestly one of the best shows Marvel has made. If Secret Invasion is everything Marvel does badly, Wonder Man reminds you they do know how to tell a story as well.
Some of the comedy moments didn’t work for me, others did. Yet a warning to the 13 yo’s out there waiting for the next fix of Marvel action. I’m not sure you’re gonna love Wonder Man. However, when you watch it back in 6-7 years time you’ll appreciate its a well made series.
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What did you think of Wonder Man and what do you think of my review of the show? Thoughts below as always.
