Movie Review: The Marvels [Spoiler-Free]

I’ll be frank. I went into the movie screening for “The Marvels” – the latest movie from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) – expecting myself to hate it. For starters, Brie Larson as Captain Marvel to be the most lacklustre MCU hero among all, in my opinion. Secondly, I had watched the Disney+ mini-series “Ms. Marvel” and felt that Iman Vellani as teenager Kamala Khan or Ms. Marvel to be utterly annoying.

So when I was surprised when I found myself enjoying “The Marvels” halfway through the movie.  

Directed by Nia DaCosta, “The Marvels” is the latest cinematic addition to the MCU in the ever-expanding landscape of superhero movies. The movie weaves together multiple narratives, characters and timelines, creating a cinematic symphony of storytelling that honours the comic book roots.

At its core, “The Marvels” is a celebration of heroes, including those we have known for years and those who are just starting to carve out their space in the Marvel universe. The ensemble cast features Brie Larson reprising her role as Carol Denvers (Captain Marvel), alongside newcomer Iman Vellani as Kamala Khan and Teyonah Parris as Monica Rambeau.

    

The narrative unfolds in a non-linear fashion, employing flashbacks and time jumps to explore the rich histories of the heroes and follow their adventures of the trio as their powers get entangled.

It would certainly help very much if you have watched the mini-series “Ms. Marvel” and “WandaVision” on Disney+ prior to watching “The Marvels”. It allows you to understand how the characters Ms. Marvel and Monica Rambeau came about and how they got their powers. Otherwise, one might find their introduction in “The Marvels” rather abrupt.

The shapeshifting Skrulls from the Disney+ miniseries “Secret Invasion” also make an appearance in “The Marvels”. However, I feel that it is not a necessity to watch it to make sense of them in the movie.

The film successfully expands the MCU, hinting at a broader interconnected narrative that will play out in future instalments with Ms. Marvel and Monica Rambeau. The story brings about depth with the exploration of identity, legacy, friendship and the consequences of wielding power for these two characters.

From an annoying teenager in “Ms. Marvel” to a likeable character in “The Marvels”, Ms. Marvel has developed and now adds a fresh perspective to the overarching narrative of the MCU. Vellani brings an unexpected energy that might just make her a new fan favourite.   

Each of the characters grapples with their own vulnerabilities and flaws, making them relatable and human despite their extraordinary abilities.

Without giving away any spoilers, “The Marvels” is a funny and refreshing journey, elevated by the excellent chemistry of the three female leads. It is a movie that is easy to enjoy despite a somewhat cluttered storyline. You’d be left eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the MCU.