Watch What If...?

What If...? is an animated anthology series that premiered on Disney+ in 2021, created by A.C. Bradley and based on the Marvel Comics' series of the same name. The show explores alternate realities and the different outcomes that could have arisen if pivotal moments in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) had gone the other way. The series utilizes cel shading to create a comic book-like feel, with stunning animation and an incredible voice cast.

The premise of the show is that Uatu the Watcher, voiced by Jeffrey Wright, is a cosmic observer who watches over the multiverse and its infinite possibilities. Each episode focuses on a single hypothetical scenario, each with its own unique twist on established MCU lore. Some of the alternate realities explored in the show include "What if Peggy Carter became a super-soldier instead of Steve Rogers," "What if T'Challa became Star-Lord instead of Peter Quill," "What if Doctor Strange lost his heart instead of his hands," and "What if the Avengers never assembled?" With each episode, the viewer is transported to a new universe, where they get to witness familiar characters in completely different and unexpected ways.

In addition to Wright's impeccable voice acting as Uatu, the show features an impressive roster of MCU actors returning to reprise their roles. Some of the actors lending their voices to the show include the late Chadwick Boseman, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael B. Jordan, Paul Rudd, and many others. A notable absence from the cast is Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark, who did not lend his voice to the show, leading to an interesting take on "What if Iron Man never existed."

What sets What If...? apart from other animated shows is its ability to take established MCU storylines and characters and subvert them in unexpected ways. The show’s strength lies in its ability to take the audience's expectations and flip them on their head. For example, in the episode where Peggy Carter becomes a super-soldier, the show explores the idea that the male gaze was a major factor in Steve Rogers' selection as the original Captain America, and if Peggy was given the same opportunity, she would have been even more powerful than Steve. The episode is a smart and thoughtful exploration of gender dynamics where the show is so successful because it is not afraid to tackle more mature themes and concepts.

Another standout episode is "What if T'Challa became Star-Lord," which features one of Boseman's final performances before his passing. The episode imagines a scenario where T'Challa is abducted by the Ravagers instead of Quill and becomes a cosmic hero instead of a Wakandan king. The episode is a fitting tribute to Boseman's talent and legacy, as it delivers an emotional and heartwarming story that showcases T'Challa's heroic nature and innate goodness.

The animation of What If...? is also a huge selling point for the show. Given that the show leans heavily on cel shading to achieve its comic book-like aesthetic, one could easily dismiss the animation as simplistic or rudimentary. However, the animation is anything but, as the characters move with fluidity and grace, and the action sequences are thrilling and dynamic. The animation is not merely a stylistic choice but an integral part of the show that complements the storytelling and elevates the show to new heights.

Finally, it's worth noting that What If...? is not simply an exercise in fan service or a cash grab, as the show fits into the larger Marvel Cinematic Universe narrative. The show provides a glimpse into the multiverse, which will have repercussions in the upcoming MCU films. The show's impact on the MCU can already be seen in the trailers for the upcoming Spider-Man: No Way Home movie, where it is heavily rumored that the events of the show will factor into the plot.

In conclusion, What If...? is a thoroughly entertaining and thought-provoking animated series that explores the infinite possibilities of the multiverse. The show's combination of interesting alternate realities, fantastic voice acting, dynamic animation, and larger MCU implications make it a must-watch for any Marvel fan.

What If...? is a series that ran for 2 seasons (18 episodes) between August 11, 2021 and on Disney+