‘WandaVision’ captivates viewers

Plot, design amaze

Fair use from Marvel Studios.

Jacob Khabie

In its first television show to be released on Disney+, Marvel Studios brings “The Truman Show” and “The Twilight Zone” together to create the instantly, addictive hit, “WandaVision.” Filled with insanely clever writing and captivating aesthetics, this show is not to be missed.

“WandaVision” follows the life of Marvel superheroes Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany) as they settle into their idyllic television sitcom life in the suburban utopia of Westview, New Jersey. Initially framed as a ‘50s-style sitcom, the show follows the couple as they face a variety of classic television tropes, all while attempting to hide their powers from their friends and coworkers. As the story progresses, some characters realize that not all is as it seems, and perhaps Wanda and Vision’s lives aren’t as picturesque as they thought.

Among many other wonderful aspects of this show, the design of each episode is an immediate standout. Using the show-within-a-show plot device, each episode follows the couple to a new decade of sitcom life, and everything surrounding the episode — theme song, costumes, set designs and even camera angles — changes accordingly. This attention to aesthetics makes the show so much more believable and allows viewers to be truly immersed in the world of “WandaVision.”

Aside from the design, the plot of “WandaVision” is what has kept me craving more. Although the episodes are short, generally clocking in at around 30 minutes, the writers do an amazing job of incorporating sitcom-style mini-plots into each episode, as well as fabricating an overarching story of mystery and drama. The series also does a great job of incorporating details from the greater Marvel Cinematic Universe, hinting at details from other Marvel works such as “Avengers: Age of Ultron” and “Captain Marvel,” to name a few.

I would be remiss if I didn’t bring up the talented duo of Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany. Olsen, already a fan-favorite from prior Marvel films, plays perfectly to all aspects of her character, from classy housewife to grieving woman, and Bettany brings a perfect duality of naivety and intelligence to Vision. Together, they create one of the most charismatic couples in modern entertainment.

Overall, “WandaVision” is another amazing addition to the works of Marvel Studios. The series has truly captivated many, including myself. Whether viewers are superhero fans, science-fiction lovers or if they’re just there for the aesthetic, “WandaVision” truly has something for everybody.

“WandaVision” is now available for streaming on Disney+.

“WandaVision”: ★★★★★