Marvel fans can rejoice, as Marvel’s Agent Carter proves to be one of the more successful projects in Marvel Entertainment’s television division.
After Steve Rogers’s”death” at the end of Captain America: First Avenger, Peggy Carter is stuck working on office work for the Strategic Scientific Reserve and putting up with misogynistic co-workers. However, when Howard Stark runs into trouble and is believed to be a traitor, she must put herself in dangerous espionage missions to clear his name and keep his technology from falling into wrong hands.
Peggy Carter is one of the more memorable “love interests” from Marvel’s super-hero films. In First Avenger, she was capable of taking action into her own hands, had great chemistry with Rogers, and possessed her own goals and motivation. If her strong role was not enough to convince anyone of her potential as a protagonist, then the one-shot short and this series definitely does. Hayley Atwell delivers a terrific performance that mixes wit, warmth, and some weariness.
The supporting cast is also strong, with Lyndsy Fonseca having fun in her brief role as aspiring actress Angie, and Enver Gjokaj as Daniel Sousa, a refreshing break from the sexist meatheads Peggy works with. James D’Arcy as Edwin Jarvis is the most memorable, however. His partnership and chemistry with Peggy is a treat to watch.
While possessing the limitations of TV budget, especially contrasted to the flashbacks from First Avenger, 1940’s America is recreated well, with the Captain America radio show being a highlight of the second episode. The setting in the past is one of the show’s greatest strengths, as it leads to exciting stories that take place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe without being restricted by the current movies.
The only concern so far with the mini-series is the lack of a main antagonist or threat. With the limited episode count, hopefully it is introduced soon. Also, retrieving Stark’s technology from evil has the potential to be repetitive as a source of plots. Otherwise, Agent Carter starts out the year with a bang with solid performances, great atmosphere, and a strong female lead.
What did you think of this premiere? What will you look forward to in this mini-series?
Sound off in the comments below!
Have A Question? Ask Jessica!
-
Jessica: Hi, I'm Jessica, the Consumer Press AI, can I help you with a consumer question?
