I remember when they said that Marvel Studios' new Spider-Man films were going to feel like a John Hughes coming-of-age film. While they certainly tried, they never overcame the fact that it lacked a lot of personality. The first trailer for "Ms. Marvel," however, looked like something that would be that, but with some personality. The first episode already presents the unique approach that they're taking with this show, making it feel like those teen films we're used to, but with some superhero powers too. I was so surprised by this premiere, which gave me all the vibes that I needed it to and more.
What is it that makes this show something new for Marvel? It's the fact that they take a step back and focus squarely on the classic "want" and "need" of Kamala Khan. She "wants" to go to this fan event dressed up as her favorite Avenger. She "needs" to understand the value of family. That's the basic setup of this episode and it works as well as anything could have. It's a memorable introduction to a superhero that not a lot of people know about, but surely will now. It displays a complete sense of fun and wonder in the little time it has to set everything up, and it doesn't apply a lot of action to it but focuses squarely on the development through the story. I like that, and it's a change of pace from "Moon Knight," which immediately threw you into the action. There's a real artistry on display in the form that it's shown, and I found myself enjoying every little effect they used to fully convey to the audience that this is a teen show. I might not always find those enjoyable, but this seems like it could be up my alley. There's not a lot of powers in this episode, but the way they change up her backstory makes it feel more personal to the culture of Kamala Khan, which seems fitting in a show about the value of family. Also, Iman Vellani is just an absolute blast. She has so much fun here and is just infectiously joyous.
With "Generation Why," Marvel has introduced their newest superhero, and she is someone that I'm interested to see the development of because her story is intriguing. Vellani disappears into the role and sells the joy of discovering her superpowers, as well as the frustration it can be being a teenager and being annoyed with everything.
