In the world of fiction, many fans wonder what could’ve happened if one choice had changed. What if Neville Longbottom was the chosen one? What if Jack Skellington was obsessed with easter? What if Ariel never made the deal with Ursula? Well the newest Marvel show “What if?”, answers the many long-standing what-if questions Marvel fans have had about their favorite heroes. 

Each episode of “What if?” has a basic premise. What if one decision changed the rest of the Marvel timeline. Each episode would introduce the premise before dropping us into a small portion on that timeline. The portions of timelines they show us throughout the show are intriguing. I wish that I could see more of each of the stories. Sometimes the premises are well executed, sometimes they aren’t. Each of the episodes includes a grim plot twist ending. These aren’t necessarily bad things but sometimes I would just like for these realities to stay happy. They also sometimes feel like cheap cliffhangers. 

The animation style is rather unique, but that’s what draws me to the show. The style can seem stiff at times, but it also feels like a well made painting. Animation is good for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the medium allows them to fully explore what the MCU has to offer. I hope that they continue to make more animated marvel properties. 

The voice cast is partially the live action MCU, and partially different voice talents. Some of the returning actors include Sebastian Stan as Bucky Barnes, Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury, Jeremy Renner as Hawkeye, Karen Gillan as Nebula and luckily they made great use of the late Chadwick Boseman of T’Challa. Though some of the MCU’s iconic heroes, like Iron Man and Captain America, have been voiced by different actors. The voice actors are all good and bring life to the characters. 

Overall, the show has some great technical work and interesting premises, but lacks the story execution to make them always make them interesting. Marvel’s “What If?” will have 9 episodes and is currently streaming on Disney +. 

Grade: 3.5/5