Rated: PG
My Rating: 4/10
In the sprawling tapestry of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, "The Marvels" emerges as a film with vibrant visuals but a disappointingly bland storyline. Clocking in as the shortest entry in the franchise, it struggles to leave a lasting impression, despite its bright colours and intriguing set designs.
One of the brightest spots in this otherwise lacklustre film is the film debut performance of Iman Vellani as Ms. Marvel, aka Kamala Khan. Vellani brings an infectious energy to the role, infusing the film with a childlike humour that serves as a much-needed icebreaker in the midst of stale and awkward moments. Her portrayal of Kamala Khan is undoubtedly the highlight of the movie, capturing the essence of the character with charm and authenticity.
On the other hand, Brie Larson's return as Captain Marvel feels disappointingly flat. While her performance is serviceable, it lacks the spark and depth needed to truly elevate the character. It feels like a rehash of her previous outings, offering nothing particularly impressive or memorable.
Teyonah Parris's portrayal of Monica Rambeau, however, injects some much-needed excitement into the film. Her journey from gaining powers in "WandaVision" to finally embracing her role as the hero Photon is one of the film's more intriguing subplots. Parris brings a sense of determination and resolve to the character, making her transformation all the more satisfying to witness.
Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for Zawe Ashton's portrayal of Dar-benn, the film's primary antagonist. As the worst Marvel villain to date, Dar-benn's character feels painfully underdeveloped and uninspired. Her storyline lacks depth and fails to engage, leaving audiences with little reason to invest in her ultimate fate.
Despite its shortcomings, "The Marvels" still holds some appeal for fans of the MCU. As a connected piece of the larger Marvel universe, it offers glimpses into the past and future of beloved characters, providing fodder for speculation and discussion among fans. However, its lacklustre storyline and forgettable villain ultimately prevent it from reaching its full potential.
"The Marvels" is a film that struggles to find its footing amidst the vast landscape of the MCU. While it boasts colourful visuals and a standout performance from Iman Vellani, it falls short in terms of storytelling and character development. For fans of the franchise, it may offer some entertainment value, but ultimately, it's a forgettable entry in the Marvel canon. I would recommend it with caution to those who are dedicated followers of the MCU, but I rate it a modest 4/10.
All images and videos are owned by Marvel Studios and Walt Disney Studios