What If... Nebula Joined the Nova Corps?

Since the release of the first season, there hasn't been a lot of movement on getting the events here involved with the main storyline of the MCU. However, maybe it's time for me to realize that they're not going to really incorporate all of that, and going into the second season with that mentality will probably temper expectations and allow me to enjoy it, like I enjoyed the first season. The first season was very entertaining, so it's exciting to see if this holds up. The first episode is an obvious homage to "Blade Runner" and noir films in general, and it's actually pretty awesome.

It took a little time for the character of Nebula to really take off in this universe, but she has since become a very beloved figure in the MCU, and it's nice to see her get an episode that is primarily centered around her. The "Blade Runner"-inspired style really works well with the Xandarian surroundings, and it's great to see it get a bit of a cyberpunk twist with the technology that Nebula has got in her arsenal. The design of this world is still very beautiful, and it feels like the animation has actually gotten a bit better with some of the sets looking a bit more detailed, which made the world feel more gritty. It had a fun gallery of characters taken from across the MCU, but it never really felt like the show had an organic way to introduce them, with the exception of the characters involved with the Nova Corps. The additions of Howard the Duck, Korg and Miek, while being entertaining, felt a little misplaced, especially Korg and Miek. However, the big draw of the episode is its central mystery, and it's not nearly as interesting as the episode wants it to be. It's fascinating enough, but the episode's only big shock of a twist is kinda ruined because the episode telegraphs it coming from a mile away. With that said, the design and the character interactions, as well as the homage to noir films, is enough to make this a very entertaining episode and a good season premiere.

"What If... Nebula Joined the Nova Corps?" is a great homage to classic noir films - especially "Blade Runner" - and its aesthetics matched the vibe flawlessly. But while some of the character interactions are great, some of the introductions are lacking, and the overall plot of the episode feels a little half-cooked given the episode's potential.

The second season of What If...? Opens with an intriguing premise: What if Nebula, the tortured daughter of Thanos, had found redemption earlier by joining the Nova Corps? This alternate storyline offers a fresh perspective on Nebula's character arc, showcasing her capacity for growth and heroism outside of her usual tragic narrative. Karen Gillan's voice acting shines as she brings a balance of strength and vulnerability to this version of Nebula, making her journey feel authentic and compelling.

The episode delivers stunning visuals, blending vibrant cosmic landscapes with the series' signature animation style. Action sequences, particularly those involving Nova Corps missions, are dynamic and exciting, capturing the high-stakes feel of intergalactic conflict. The decision to highlight Nebula's tactical brilliance and leadership skills elevates her as a true protagonist in this alternate universe.

While the premise is engaging, the episode does fall into some predictable beats, especially in its resolution. The story introduces fascinating concepts, but its relatively short runtime doesn't allow for full exploration of the complexities of Nebula's transformation or the consequences of her decisions. Despite this, the episode succeeds in creating an enjoyable "what if" scenario that fits well within the larger Marvel multiverse framework.

Overall, What If... Nebula Joined the Nova Corps? Is a strong season opener, offering both action and emotional depth. While it could have delved deeper into its themes, it's a solid entry that sets the tone for the season ahead. Fans of Nebula, in particular, will find this alternate take on her story both refreshing and rewarding.

Rating: 7.5/10.

What If... returns for a second season. It delivers a Korg and Howard the Duck mash up that I would like to see more off.

It also has a more nuanced take on Nebula. More so than what was delivered in Guardians of the Galaxy 3.

This is a world where Blade Runner meets Highlander 2. A norish dark world where Nebula was selected by Nova Prime (Julianne Grossman) and enlisted in the Nova Corps.

The planet Xandar is encircled by a shield to stop an invasion but Xandar is falling into lawlessness.

Nova Prime sends Nebula on an off the books mission to break into a mainframe. However betrayal is not far behind.

The first series was uneven. This is a strong start, good animation and a lot of fun.

I reviewed each episode of the first season of "What If" individually and it seems to make sense to do the same thing again this time. I liked that first series overall, and enjoyed how the seemingly disparate stories coalesced into one narrative and I wonder if that's the plan again this time? This first episode was good in its own right though.

Ronan The Accuser betrays and overthrows Thanos, leading to Nebula (Karen Gillan) being alone and floating in space. She's recruited by Nova Prime (Julianne Grossman) to the Nova Corps. Ronan attacks Xandar - which defends itself by surrounding the planet in an impenetrable shield. After a few years of isolation, Xandar has become a different, darker, and more lawless planet, with he Nova Corp the de facto Police Force. Nebula investigates the death of Yondu (Michael Rooker) and discovers that he was in over his head, with a scheme that risks the whole planet.

I mean, there' a painfully obvious inspiration for this episode that otherwise I think is largely untouched in the MCU. This is very "Bladerunner" inspired, from the cars and buildings invoking that future/noir aesthetic, to the character dangling from the edge of the building, by one arm, towards the end. The theme, as well as the story actually works really well - so much so it's a shame that they couldn't actually make this as a full live action film.

There are some additional MCU characters in the episode. Howard The Duck, voiced by Seth Green is a low-level crime boss here and Korg, Groot and Miek all work for him, which is seemingly set up for a Rock, Paper, Scissors gag that was definitely worth it. You have returns to the MCU for both Peter Serafinowicz and Jude Law, who reprises Yon-Rogg. Glenn Close not returning as Nova Prime is the only missing vocal performer.

It remains to be scene whether we'll see these versions of the characters again, but this was certainly a fun start to the second run.

This is yet another Disney type of show.

And by that I mean the same kinda uninspired stuff you expect post Avengers Endgame.

As it has been with Marvel shows post Endgame (with exception of WandaVision, Loki), this is just one big fat nothing burger written by ChatGPT.

It's another derivative plot that introduces nothing new except to pad up streaming catalogs. The story absolutely won't wow you cause it's written by ChatGPT. Let me take that back. ChatGPT would have written a better plot.

It really doesn't matter if you watch this or not. It's similar to those Saturday morning cartoon level of entertainment. You just put it on to distract your kids while you are doing the dishes.

The only question you'll have after watching this is "What if I have not wasted my time watching this?"