In the wake of the highly anticipated series “Agatha All Along,” the first two episodes are brimming with fascinating Easter eggs and resonant references to the Marvel universe. Starring the exceptional Kathryn Hahn in the title role of Agatha Harkness, this new chapter unfolds three years post the tumultuous events of “WandaVision,” during which Wanda Maximoff cast an entire town under her thrall as the Scarlet Witch. Now, the narrative shifts focus to Agatha, who is eager to reclaim her former magical prowess.
The premiere episodes depict Agatha breaking free from the trancelike spell that Wanda had left her ensnared in at the conclusion of “WandaVision.” Freed by an enigmatic figure known only as “Teen” (played by Joe Locke), Agatha is inspired to gather a new coven of witches as she sets out on a quest to regain her formidable powers.
With this backdrop, the initial two episodes of “Agatha All Along” are laced with an abundance of thrilling nods to both Marvel Comics and the enduring legacy of “WandaVision.” For instance, one pivotal moment is Agatha’s role as a no-nonsense detective responding to a call about a body discovered by the creek, which leads to a grim realization. The victim’s cause of death is revealed to be blunt-force trauma, hinting strongly at a tragic encounter involving Wanda, who perished under similar circumstances in “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.”
The dialogue throughout the episodes is rich with tantalizing implications. When Agatha is informed about a victim’s demise, she cryptically muses, “Well, you never know,” potentially hinting at the possibility of Scarlet Witch’s resurrection—a tantalizing prospect for viewers.
Visual cues are also key to understanding the story. Agatha’s victim bears telltale signs of the Darkhold lingering in her system, evidenced by blackened fingers reminiscent of Wanda’s own condition. Agatha’s journey of self-discovery takes on a deeper layer with the discovery of her brooch, a meaningful artifact taken from her mother, revealing connections to the past that fans of “WandaVision” will undoubtedly recognize.
The series also employs an inventive “True Crime” styled opening, reminiscent of the musical themes and distinctive credits seen in “WandaVision.” This cinematic touch serves to establish Agatha’s narrative connection to the town of Westview, highlighted by the playful inclusion of her alter ego “Agnes” among the credits of local residents.
Throughout the episodes, Agatha’s interactions with various characters, including the librarian Dottie, lead to clues that hint at the history of magic and the Darkhold. The story weaves an intricate web of references, as Agatha’s inquiries about a particular book serve as a clever pun and anagram trail back to Wundagore, intensifying the stakes in her investigation.
The atmosphere thickens with references to the broader Marvel lore. For example, a mention of soil from Eastern Europe illuminates connections to the legendary Mount Wundagore, underlining the rich history both within Marvel Comics and the MCU. Introducing Rio Vidal, portrayed by Aubrey Plaza, adds layers of rivalry and impeding threats to Agatha’s quest, suggesting that the witch’s past is far from forgotten.
As the narrative unfolds, the acknowledgment of Westview’s lingering trauma emerges, emphasizing the impact of Wanda’s spell on its residents. Alongside humor, tension, and foreboding, the storyline plays out like a dark fairy tale, complete with a haunting soundtrack that complements the mystical themes underpinning the series.
With each revelation, “Agatha All Along” pushes deeper into the rich lore of Marvel. This series not only keeps the audience on edge but also opens the door to endless possibilities in the ever-expanding universe of the MCU. As fans eagerly speculate on what lies ahead, the legacy of Agatha Harkness is set to intertwine with the fates of familiar heroes and villains, leaving the audience craving more from this new and intriguing saga.
