What If…? Season 3 Review: Marvel Plays it Safe

Disney+ is wrapping up the highly popular ‘What If…?’ animated Marvel anthology with its final Season 3 this holiday season. The latest episodes dive deep into emotional and existential themes, departing from the lighter tone of the previous seasons. This finale is a mix of ambitious storytelling and restraint, presenting a set of stories that are daring but sometimes cautious.

Right from the start, Season 3 sets itself apart from the typical Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) adventures. While the anthology structure allowed for creative experiments in the earlier seasons, this time around, the focus is on crafting an interconnected narrative. However, the core spirit of ‘What If…?’ remains intact, exploring alternate versions of our beloved superheroes and villains. The season strikes a balance between standalone episodes and interconnected storylines, offering a blend of individual tales and overarching arcs.

The tone of the latest season is notably somber, mirroring the broader cultural landscape and the darker aspects of multiverse storytelling. Themes of greed, prejudice, and oppression take center stage, providing a weightier viewing experience. This departure from the lighthearted tone of previous seasons might feel overwhelming at times, but it adds depth to the storytelling.

Despite the heavier tone, the show’s darker themes bring a sense of realism and emotional depth to the season. The Watcher, voiced by the talented Jeffrey Wright, serves as the mysterious narrator, guiding viewers through the multiverse. While some episodes delve into darkness, others offer lighter moments, like episode 4’s “What If…Howard the Duck got hitched”.

Season 3 introduces a blend of fan service and original storytelling, with the prominence of characters like Captain Carter sometimes overshadowing others. The decision to intertwine episodes within a larger narrative arc has its advantages and drawbacks, offering closure for fans while potentially limiting creative freedom.

Overall, ‘What If…?’ Season 3 provides a satisfying and poignant conclusion to the anthology, hinting at potential future explorations in the MCU’s animated series. As the MCU evolves post-Endgame, ‘What If…?’ stands out as a unique and adventurous experiment in the Marvel universe. Despite some shortcomings, this season continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo of superhero storytelling.