This review contains full spoilers for Agatha All Along Season 1, Episode 5.
Marvel’s Agatha All Along has finally provided the answer to a major question, although it comes at the end of a hurried episode. The latest installment, titled “Darkest Hour / Wake Thy Power,” is the shortest yet, running at just 25 minutes before credits, about 10-15 minutes shorter than previous episodes. This brevity is unfortunate, as the significant moments could benefit from more time to develop.
In a not-so-surprising revelation, Joe Locke’s mystery “Teen” character is unveiled as Billy Kaplan, the son of the Scarlet Witch (Elizabeth Olsen) who is known as Wiccan in the comics. The pivotal moment where Agatha (Kathryn Hahn) pushes Billy to his limits and he uses his powers to annihilate the coven is quite impactful. The decision to disclose his identity visually rather than verbally, emphasizing his use of Wanda’s mind control ability and a crown similar to hers, accompanied by the fitting song choice of Billie Eilish’s “You Should See Me in a Crown,” is a highlight. However, the sudden knowledge Agatha has of his true identity raises questions, given the established sigil that should prevent witches from knowing his real name. This inconsistency may be clarified in future episodes, but for now, it complicates the big reveal.
Another aspect detracting from the moment is the lack of development for Billy’s character up to this point. Despite ample screen time, we only have a superficial understanding of him, beyond his compassionate nature and inquisitive demeanor. This lack of depth makes it challenging to fully appreciate the significance of his connection to Wanda. As a fan of Marvel’s Young Avengers comics and Wiccan specifically, the unfolding events have been somewhat frustrating.
Thinning Plot and Set Piece Storytelling
Agatha All Along is facing a broader issue of accelerating plot progression leading to a decrease in substance. Each episode feels like a series of set pieces strung together with gimmicks and exposition, resulting in a thinner narrative. The recent trial featuring Alice in episode four was a casualty of this growing problem, which persists.
Thankfully, the introduction of the Salem Seven as proper villains addresses my previous concerns. Their eerie presence adds much-needed peril and excitement to the story as they pursue the coven down the Witches’ Road. The revelation about their lineage ties back nicely to the flashback seen in WandaVision, although their characters remain one-dimensional for now.
Surprising Twists and Character Dynamics
The unexpected focus on Agatha’s trial in this episode serves as a subversion of expectations. The horror movie sleepover setting adds a fun element, especially when the Ouija board leads to Agatha’s possession. The ensuing chaos provides comedic relief and highlights the tensions within the group, particularly Jen’s defiance against Agatha, reflecting her moral ambiguity.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, Rio’s conflicted feelings towards Agatha reveal the complexity of their relationship. The appearance of Evanora Harkness introduces a layer of vulnerability to Agatha’s character, hinting at deeper traumas stemming from her past.
The inevitable loss of a coven member, notably Alice, adds weight to the narrative, although her minimal prior screen time diminishes the emotional impact. Agatha’s inability to control her power-stealing ability raises questions about her morality and past actions, suggesting a more nuanced portrayal than initially assumed.