The new animated series from Marvel Studios, titled Marvel Zombies, premiered on Disney+ in September 2023, offering a blend of hyperviolent action and humor. This four-part miniseries continues the storyline introduced in What If…? season 1, episode 5, and is the first adult animated series from the studio. While the series showcases a fresh roster of superheroes, it suffers from familiar storytelling issues that have impacted Marvel’s animated projects in the past.
Setting the Stage for a Zombie Apocalypse
Set five years after the events of What If…? Zombies!?, the narrative unfolds in a dystopian version of Earth plagued by a zombie virus. This catastrophic outbreak originated from a virus brought back by Dr. Hank Pym from the Quantum Realm. As humanity struggles for survival, a group of superpowered individuals emerges, including Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel), Riri Williams (Ironheart), and Kate Bishop (Hawkeye). The trio embarks on a perilous journey to find a key that may end the zombie scourge.
The introduction of these characters signals a shift towards the next generation of Marvel heroes, with Khan serving as the primary protagonist. Her optimistic personality and determination drive the plot, capturing the essence of youth and resilience in the face of adversity.
Character Dynamics and Humor in a Grim Setting
Marvel Zombies features a diverse cast, including characters like Shang-Chi, Blade, and members of the Thunderbolts. The interactions among these heroes provide a refreshing take on character dynamics, showcasing their unique personalities and humor. Although the chemistry between Khan, Williams, and Bishop is engaging, the series occasionally veers into overly corny humor, detracting from the intended tone of a post-apocalyptic horror narrative.
The juxtaposition of slapstick moments—such as encounters between Red Guardian and Zombie Captain America—against the gruesome backdrop of a zombie-infested world feels disjointed. While some viewers may appreciate the levity, others might find it undermines the show’s darker themes.
Despite these tonal inconsistencies, Marvel Zombies does not shy away from its commitment to delivering gruesome content. The series is marked as TV-MA, and it pushes the boundaries of violence more than any previous Marvel project. The unsettling imagery and intense action sequences pay homage to classic horror films, with notable references to scenes from Game of Thrones and World War Z.
Complexities in Storytelling and Pacing
While the foundation of an engaging narrative exists, Marvel Zombies is hindered by various storytelling issues. The series employs a MacGuffin that serves as the heroes’ solution, but its execution lacks depth. The decision to not directly follow the cliffhanger from the previous episode of What If…? contributes to a sense of narrative disconnection.
Critics have pointed out that the emotional impact of character deaths feels muted, lacking the weight necessary to resonate with viewers. A significant narrative inconsistency also emerges in the final episode, further complicating the storytelling and leaving audiences with unresolved questions.
Originally conceived as a two-hour film, Marvel Zombies was adapted into a limited series due to rights complications involving Spider-Man. While the inclusion of Spider-Man is a treat for fans, his presence disrupts the overall pacing of the series, which suffers from a lack of cohesive storytelling.
Despite these shortcomings, there are elements that hint at potential growth for the series. The conclusion suggests an appetite for further exploration of this universe, allowing for the possibility of refinement in future installments.
In summary, while Marvel Zombies offers thrilling moments of violence and engaging character interactions, it ultimately falls short in delivering a compelling narrative. Fans of the franchise may find enjoyment in its unique premise and fresh characters, but those seeking a well-rounded story may be left wanting. As it stands, the series joins the growing list of Marvel productions that, despite their potential, struggle to fully realize their ambitions.
