Wonder Man First Look: Marvel’s New Series Offers a Grounded Detour into Hollywood
Table of Contents
Marvel’s latest foray into streaming, Wonder Man, debuting on Disney+ on January 27, distinguishes itself with a character-driven narrative reminiscent of 2024’s Echo. The series, released all at once like Echo, represents a potentially underappreciated project from Marvel Studios, offering a refreshing, albeit smaller-scale, perspective within the expansive Marvel Cinematic Universe.
A “Marvel Spotlight” Approach
Like Echo, Wonder Man falls under the “Marvel Spotlight” banner, signaling a shift towards more focused, intimate stories. According to early reviews, the first episode doesn’t aim to resolve the broader issues plaguing the MCU, but instead provides an “entertaining detour” into a Marvel-ized version of Hollywood. This approach is a deliberate departure from the sprawling narratives of the Multiverse Saga, acknowledging the challenges of effectively developing a multitude of new characters.
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II Leads a Meta Narrative
Yahya Abdul-Mateen II makes his transition to the MCU, having previously appeared in the DCEU and Watchmen universe, portraying struggling actor Simon Williams. This iteration of Wonder Man diverges significantly from the source material, eschewing the dual life of actor and Avenger. Instead, the series adopts a “grounded and meta direction,” focusing on Simon’s pursuit of a breakthrough role in a remake of the 1970s cult classic Wonder Man.
During this process, Simon forms an unexpected bond with Trevor Slattery, portrayed by Ben Kingsley, a fellow actor known for his past portrayal of the Mandarin. One reviewer noted that the series’ success hinges on embracing this unconventional take on the character. The show isn’t about launching the next MCU superstar; it’s a “lighthearted character drama” set within the superhero universe.
Kingsley’s Trevor Slattery Steals the Show
The presence of Kingsley’s Trevor Slattery is a key element, providing a crucial link to the larger MCU, despite the first episode’s limited connections. The actor delivers a performance described as “manic, nebbish, [and] entertaining,” continuing a surprising character arc that began in 2013. Trevor’s mentorship of Simon adds depth to the narrative, and the episode hints at a larger story arc for the character, captivating viewers.
A Self-Aware Look at Hollywood
The series immerses viewers in the MCU’s version of Los Angeles, complete with “self-aware humor” surrounding Simon’s auditions and interactions with his agent, X Mayo. The show acknowledges the inherent fascination Hollywood has with itself, but manages to keep the “navel-gazing and meta commentary” amusing rather than tiresome. Director Destin Daniel Cretton’s energetic direction, particularly during scenes of Simon’s frantic commute and crowded audition hallways, further enhances the experience.
A Promising Start with a Late-Game Twist
Overall, the first episode of Wonder Man is considered a “very solid start.” However, the initial premise’s sustainability over eight episodes remains uncertain. Fortunately, a “late-game curveball” introduces a new layer of intrigue, clarifying the series’ direction and Simon’s role in a world populated by superhumans. If a character-driven MCU story isn’t enough, this reveal may be the deciding factor for viewers.
