Familiar by Thy Side

In my opinion, this is the best episode of the series so far. Answers so many questions we've had, even since the days of the WandaVision series. An episode that made me many times remain with my mouth open throughout the scene, from the shock of what I saw.

While watching the episode on the one hand I didn't want it to end, on the other hand I wanted it to continue to know what happens next. Joe Locke is great, Kathryn Hahn as usual steals the show, and the other characters in the episode are just as good, including one we didn't know was coming.

Starting from the opening scene that I personally really connected with, to the ending scene that leaves a taste for more, the 6th episode of Agatha all along is excellent in every parameter.

Well, this has been a very interesting road so far. We definitely needed to piece together who "Teen" was, what his journey on the road was about, and how Agatha's own story will develop. I think this episode managed that quite well.

Finding out who actually placed the sigil on him was the real revelation. She (watch the show if you want to know who I'm talking about) was behind it all along. Probably forgetting about the sigil was a convenient side effect, but the plot twist still forces me to wait for the next episode next week.

I am so hyped for this! I haven't yet seen an episode that made me so eager for the next one, as did the one streamed this week. That's just my opinion.

My 8-star rating doesn't undermine the 10-star rating I've given to the entire show. This episode just ended sooner than I would have liked, hence the lower rating.

But the whole story is starting to make sense.

Even if a big reveal doesn't hit the emotions that they're meant to, it doesn't mean that it was a complete waste. "Agatha All Along" decided to go the obvious route with Joe Locke's "Teen" and give us the reveal that many had expected to see. Now, despite that being a bit disappointing, it doesn't mean that they can't make it work with some good backstory and if there's anything that this episode is interested in, it's giving you the backstory in full detail. And it's nice to get a solid overview of who this character is, with a strong exploration of what actually happened.

This episode offers a compelling exploration of Billy Maximoff's backstory, providing a meaningful tie-in to "WandaVision" that longtime fans will appreciate. The episode delves into Billy's origins in a way that feels both emotional and well-earned, enriching his character with more depth while connecting his past to the broader magical landscape introduced in previous MCU projects. This added context not only honors the legacy of "WandaVision," but also gives Billy's journey more weight in the ongoing series. Joe Locke shines in his portrayal of Billy, delivering a performance that captures both the uncertainty and strength of a young man trying to figure out who he is. His ability to navigate the emotional highs and lows of Billy's struggles with his identity and powers makes him a clear standout in the show. Locke's chemistry with the rest of the cast, particularly in his more introspective moments shared with his boyfriend in the episode, is one of the strongest elements, adding to the character's relatability. There's clearly still more to this character, but it was a smart decision to give us the necessary information here to really understand what drives him and it adds a layer of contrast to Agatha, adding even more depth to their relationship. However, the pacing is where the episode falters a bit. While the story and character development are solid, the rushed pacing undercuts some of the more emotional beats. Several key moments - especially involving Billy's reflection on his past - felt like they could have been expanded or allowed more time to breathe.

"Familiar By Thy Side" is, despite the few flaws, a solid episode with strong character work and excellent performances, especially Locke's compelling portrayal of Billy. The connection to "WandaVision" adds emotional depth and adds more layers to the ongoing conflict here, even if the episode could have benefited from a slower, more measured approach.

Billy's origin story is completely heartbreaking (or maybe it's the actor selling it!) but the early stuff (joy/confusion) was difficult to bear. It really played into his lost boy persona. Then the cameos from the other members of the coven (and the special guest star) made the show smaller (in a good way). Seeing detective Agatha was hysterical (brava Hahn!) especially for the ridiculousness from William's (sorry, Billy's) perspective (I loved her "gun"!).

Sure the episode didn't further the plot but it provided some interesting background for all of the Wanda vision fans (of which I am one!).

Sandbox made and they're definitely playing in it!

Agatha All Along is coming into its stride. The first few episodes are starting to pay off as the story is finally coming together.

What was a deeply uneven start has evolved into a charming show, and I won't deny, this was one show I was really looking forward to, but it almost lost me at episode 4.

I could watch Katherine Hahn reading from the phone book and whole rather wooden, Joe Locke impressed in episode 6.

Ultimately, this show is going to get a lot of unfair criticism for being - well - you know how these things play out, and if you have to ask who this show is for, then it's probably not for you. And that's fine. There's a tonne of Marvel content.

But there are a tonne of nods here to Wandavision, and Agatha All Along is charming enough and definitely worth a watch.

I don't know what is going to happen now, but I'm excited for the final few episodes.