WandaVision Is Finally Transforming The MCU's Future

WandaVision was the first of Marvel's extensive lineup of Disney+ shows, but recent developments indicate that the series could significantly transform the MCU's future. Despite the well-documented production issues, WandaVision's experimental flair and well-crafted story establish it as a memorable MCU entry. The series is critically acclaimed, racking up an impressive 23 Primetime Emmy nominations and winning three. Ultimately, WandaVision endures as a top-ranked MCU TV show that will have lasting ramifications on the franchise's future, which can't be said for all of Marvel's Disney+ catalog.

WandaVision's unique charm can be attributed to the crafty sitcom backdrop of each episode. But beneath this stylistic exterior is a show that explores complex themes of loss, grief, and love in a surprisingly sincere manner for the MCU. Unfortunately, the impact of pandemic-related production issues hampered WandaVision and the other early MCU TV entries from reaching their true potential. While other series may never see meaningful development or expansion, the same can't be said for the narratives introduced in WandaVision. Wanda's involvement in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, in addition to other related spinoffs like Agatha: Coven of Chaos and the MCU's Vision TV show, cement its status as a pivotal addition to the Marvel lore.

The MCU's Disney+ TV Shows Are Becoming More Experimental (Like WandaVision)

WandaVision's delivery is an ambitious approach for the MCU, and it's a tactic that's paid off with other Disney+ TV shows. Series creator Jac Schaeffer takes an immense risk with the show's sitcom framework, one that could alienate younger viewers. Although the sitcom setting allows for the insertion of some traditional Marvel humor, this inclusion cleverly masks the elevated emotional tones and themes of intrigue that are prevalent throughout the series.

The series disguises its central theme of grief, as Wanda's villainous intentions are expertly hidden. Wanda's twisted manipulation of Westview's residents in an attempt to suppress her loss and preserve her shattered family is tragic and unexpectedly heavy subject matter for the MCU. WandaVision's emphasis on sincerity paves the way for the introduction of other pertinent stories, like the mental health representation in Moon Knight. Additionally, WandaVision defies the often formulaic nature of the MCU films preceding it, as well as the TV shows following it. Its nine-episode run feels appropriate as it effectively establishes the mystery. This lengthier run-time contributes to a story that is character-focused and devoid of typical Marvel tropes. The MCU's fourth-wall-breaking Disney+ debut set the stage for other subversive projects to emerge like She-Hulk: Attorney at Law.

Marvel's Disney+ WandaVision Spinoff Shows Give Scarlet Witch A Legacy

Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff Scarlet Witch standing in Westview street at the end of WandaVision

While it would have been enthralling to see WandaVision unencumbered by the pandemic and its impact on its production, it's still a successful MCU entry, with clear evidence that the series was never intended as a one-off. The Agatha: Coven of Chaos MCU TV show could be crucial to Phase 5 and the Multiverse Saga. Additionally, the development of Vision Quest suggests that there is significant interest in continuing to chronicle the character-driven narratives introduced in WandaVision. While the cinematic future of the Scarlet Witch may have been sealed along with the Darkhold in Multiverse of Madness, these spinoff shows provide a much-needed legacy for an often mistreated character.

Although Elizabeth Olsen is set to reprise her role as Wanda Maximoff in Marvel’s What If…? season 2, her further involvement in the franchise beyond returning to voice the character in animation is unknown. Marvel's questionable decisions in Doctor Strange 2 and the perpetual retcons of the Scarlet Witch undo many of the accomplishments of WandaVision. But, with Schaeffer returning as the lead writer for Agatha: Coven of Chaos, expect more of WandaVision's unconventional brilliance to persevere.

Next: Scarlet Witch's Doctor Strange 2 Controversy Sets Up Her Avengers Future