Analyzing the Framing of “What If…?” Episodes
Throughout Marvel Studios’ animated multiverse show What If…?, a recurring issue arises from the misleading way many episodes are titled. While the series presents each installment with a “What If…” premise, these titles often fail to capture the essence of the episode or what makes it captivating. Season 2 and 3 continue to struggle with this problem, culminating in an episode that epitomizes this discrepancy: “What If… Howard the Duck Got Hitched?”
A Deep Dive into the Absurdity of “Howard the Duck Got Hitched”
The central theme of a marriage involving Howard the Duck may not resonate with the average Marvel enthusiast. However, the episode’s title is a misnomer, as the storyline deviates significantly from romantic escapades. A more fitting title could be “What If… This Episode Was a Tribute to Die-Hard MCU Fans?” This particular episode delves into lighthearted and nonsensical humor, devoid of any deep exploration of the primary MCU timeline or substantial Marvel Universe insights. The narrative feels more akin to a silly chase sequence reminiscent of a Scooby-Doo episode than a typical Marvel movie.
Unveiling the Whimsical Universe of “Howard the Duck Got Hitched”
In order to fully appreciate the episode “Howard the Duck Got Hitched,” a basic understanding of previous What If…? episodes is necessary. The cosmic events surrounding the marriage between Howard and Dr. Darcy Lewis unfold in a chaotic manner, involving various MCU factions vying for possession of their peculiar offspring, an egg that holds significant cosmic power. The ensuing planetary pursuit and confrontation with familiar MCU characters result in a zany and trivia-packed adventure.
Exploring the Blend of Comedy and Action in Season 3 of “What If…?”
Across three seasons, What If…? navigates a delicate balance between dark, serious themes and comedic elements. While the show occasionally interjects humor into its more somber narratives, the distinction between comedy and high-stakes action is evident. Season 3, epitomized by “Howard the Duck Got Hitched,” embraces a more comedic approach, forsaking grand narratives for whimsical storytelling.
The Niche Appeal of “Howard the Duck Got Hitched”
Appealing primarily to devout MCU fans, “Howard the Duck Got Hitched” delves deep into the annals of Marvel lore, offering a plethora of insider references and quirky character interactions. While casual viewers may find the episode perplexing, ardent MCU aficionados will revel in the episode’s nerdy charm. This specialized approach contrasts with other episodes’ attempts to straddle the line between profound narrative explorations and conventional hero-villain showdowns.
The Experimental Nature of “Howard the Duck Got Hitched”
Amidst a season marked by formulaic episodes, “Howard the Duck Got Hitched” emerges as a bold departure from the norm. The episode’s unapologetically comedic tone and unconventional storytelling reflect a willingness to defy convention and take risks. By embracing the absurdity of its premise, the episode captures a sense of freedom seldom seen in the series, presenting a unique glimpse into an alternate version of What If…?
Watch What If…? now on Disney Plus.