‘The Marvels’ Review

 ‘The Marvels’ Review: A Flerken Good Time.

The Marvel Cinematic Universe's strands have grown as knotted and lengthy as a fern's mouth. Everything was good when there were only a few films that led to a single, definitive ending, but in more recent times, the MCU has grown well beyond that, encompassing a growing number of characters, timelines, and multiverses in both films and television shows that have no discernible purpose. Even for a fan, there's a lot to keep up with. On the surface, The Marvels appear to be like that. In addition to being a Captain Marvel sequel, it carries on the WandaVision and Ms. Marvel tales. Iman Vellani shines as the wide-eyed Kamala Khan who brings a light-hearted joy to every moment while Brie Larson and Teyonah Parris do the heavy lifting as Captain Marvel and Monica Rambeau. The Marvels is a simple and fun film, albeit a little rushed. Not everything lands cleanly, but once the film gets a rhythm going, it’s difficult not to get caught up in its Marvels. Simply put, it’s a Flerken good time.

Thankfully Carol, Monica, and Kamala are handled slightly better. Iman Vellani in particular is the heart and soul of the film. As one of the newer characters brought into the MCU, Ms. Marvel represents the new generation of heroes. Kamala sees Captain Marvel as her own personal hero and icon; she’s the inspiration for her hero name after all. So when she finally meets her and they become a team, her inner fangirl takes over and the results are downright adorable and heartwarming. Vellani captures that excitement and wonderment that has been missing from the MCU for a while now, and it’s difficult not to share in giddiness. I’ve become hardened and overwhelmed these past few years with just trying to keep up with how much Marvel there has been. Ms. Marvel is a reminder that its good to just take a breath and enjoy the moment. There’s nothing wrong with having a little fun.

The Marvels also doesn't hold back when it comes to having fun. Even though the film's basic premise is simple, there are some absurd and chaotic scenes in it. Nia DaCosta, the director, takes some bold risks, such as an entire musical performance that comes completely out of nowhere and, oddly enough, works for me. The audience favorite Flerken Goose also makes an appearance, playing a bigger and better role than before. Prepare yourself for some surprisingly funny moments.

The Marvels is far from the best of the MCU, but it cuts down on a lot of what has been plaguing the franchise lately to deliver a fun and charming film. It doesn’t get wrapped up in the bigger picture, although there are still plenty of teases and hints at what’s to come in typical Marvel Studios fashion. We still get a mostly self-contained story filled with memorable moments. The Marvels is proof that maybe the MCU is back on track and isn’t in as much trouble as it would seem.

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