In a spellbinding blend of sitcom and mystery elements, “Wandavision” gives the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) diehards and newcomers a terrific take on television storytelling. Directed by Matt Shakman, and starring Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettney, “Wandavision” is the first of many MCU-centered shows coming to Disney +. Not only does “Wandavision” introduce many new characters and plot threads in the MCU, but it also tells the story of Wanda Maximoff and the ending of her tale into another one.

“Wandavision’s” purpose, just like all of the shows, is to bring the MCU to a larger audience while expanding it and telling stories focused on certain characters. Case in point, “Wandavision” focuses on Wanda Maximoff played by Elizbeth Olsen, and there’s no doubt that Wanda is the main character in this story. Then there’s Vision, Wanda’s husband, played by Paul Bettney. The story itself centers around Wanda and Vision’s relationship as they live in a perfect suburban life only for it to all come crashing down as the truth comes to light.

“Wandavision” introduces new faces, such as Monica Rambeau played by Teyonah Parris, Tyler Howard played by Josh Stamberg and Kathryn Hahn as Agnes. Old characters return to Randall Park reprises his role as Jimmy Woo and Kat Dennings as Darcy Lewis. These characters play crucial roles in the story and are a joy to watch on screen. Dennings and Park play off each other very well, and Parris’s character Monica Rambeau brings a great character into the MCU.

Elizabeth Olsen delivers one of the best performances in the show. As she plays a grieving and confused Wanda, who just tries to have a normal life and family. I couldn’t help but feel for her especially during episode 8. Paul Bettney represents the cast as he tries to unravel the mystery of Westview, he also gives an emotional bout in what’s one of my favorite scenes in the show. While I don’t want to spoil anything I can confidently say that Kathryn Hahn as Agnes is a scene-stealing and a favorite of mine, I hope she comes back to reprise the role.

“Wandavision” does have many strengths; it also has some weaknesses, one being a big disappointment that comes from a surprise character later in the show. “Wandavision” also has a very slow and kind of alienating start. It throws readers into the story, the first couple of episodes don’t even resemble anything from the MCU, and while it’s a weakness it’s also a strength. “Wandavision” takes a different direction compared to things seen in the MCU as it takes on different eras of television sitcoms. Alas, those unfamiliar with the MCU will still be confused, which is why I recommend “Marvel Legends” on Disney +.

One misconception that fans had in the show was the ending, fans had many expectations going into the show and many expected some very big reveals. It didn’t help that Paul Bettney teased a cameo appearance of an actor that he always dreamed of working with causing fans to speculate. Another disappointment among fans was the disappearance of a familiar sorcerer in the Marvel Universe, and a devilish villain. At the end of the day, I just chalk it up to be too high expectations for an MCU show that’s only available on a single streaming service that many do not have access to. At the end of the day, MCU shows on Disney + can’t have any truly groundbreaking reveals and developments, or else they’ll leave some moviegoers confused since these shows connect to many upcoming movies. Elizabeth Olsen herself will be appearing in the upcoming “Doctor Strange and the Multiverse of Madness”.

As I finish off the review I can confidently say that “Wandavision” is a great show and I’ll recommend it to anyone. Even though it does have some flaws it still sets a high bar for upcoming MCU shows such as “Falcon and the Winter Soldier”. It’s a well-done story of love, grief, and new beginnings both good and bad.