Marvel’s What If…? Season 2 is bringing a unique flavor to the Marvel Cinematic Universe by featuring Michael Douglas as Hank Pym in an alternate 1980s Avengers line-up. This creative reimagining of the classic superhero team promises to offer fans a nostalgic journey back in time, with a fresh perspective on these iconic characters.
A Nostalgic Twist on the Avengers
Director Bryan Andrews shared his excitement about the involvement of several of the original MCU cast in this new season:
“We got Kurt Russell to come back and be Ego… We got so many of them back. It was incredible.”
-Bryan Andrews, Director-
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The involvement of actors like Michael Douglas and Kurt Russell adds a layer of authenticity to the alternate universe narratives, bridging the gap between the MCU’s past and its present. The series’ ability to attract such high-caliber talent speaks to its quality and the commitment of Marvel Studios to deliver a unique and engaging experience to its audience.
An Homage to the 1980s
Fans can expect a nostalgic trip to a different era of the MCU, with Douglas’s portrayal of Hank Pym in the 1980s. This decision to set the Avengers in a previous decade opens up a host of storytelling possibilities, allowing What If…? to explore untapped narratives and character dynamics.
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In discussing the creative process behind the series, AC Bradley, head writer of What If…?, highlighted the importance of exploring new narratives while respecting the essence of the original characters:
“I think a lot of our episodes are actually female led… Captain Carter. Kahori. Actually, gosh, I think actually the number is good for us.”
-AC Bradley, Head Writer-
Bradley’s insights indicate a balance between innovation and homage, a hallmark of What If…?. The series’ commitment to diversity and representation, as seen in its focus on strong female characters, further enriches the alternate universe stories being told.
Redefining the MCU
What If…? Season 2 is set to redefine the MCU’s narrative possibilities, blending the familiar with the novel and creating a fresh yet respectful take on the universe’s lore. The inclusion of Michael Douglas and other original actors pays homage to the MCU’s history while forging new paths in storytelling.
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What If…? Season 2’s journey back to the 1980s with an alternate Avengers line-up is a testament to Marvel Studios’ innovative storytelling. The series continues to push the boundaries of what fans expect from the MCU, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and novelty.
What If…? Season 2 promises to be a thrilling ride for fans of all generations when it premieres on Disney+ on December 22, 2023.
About Marvel Studios’ What If…?
Season 2 Release Date: December 22, 2023 (1 New Episode each day, with the season finale on December 31, 2022)
Directed by: Bryan Andrews (S1)
Head Writer: AC Bradley (S1)
Executive Producers: Brad Winderbaum, Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Bryan
Andrews, AC Bradley
Production Company: Marvel Studios
MCU Stars Reprising Roles (S1): Andy Serkis, Angela Bassett, Benedict Cumberbatch, Benedict Wong, Benicio Del Toro, Bradley Whitford, Carrie Coon, Chadwick Boseman, Chris Hemsworth, Chris Sullivan, Clancy Brown, Clark Gregg, Cobie Smulders, Danai Gurira, David Dastmalchian, Djimon Hounsou, Dominic Cooper, Don Cheadle, Emily VanCamp, Evangeline Lilly, Frank Grillo, Georges St-Pierre, Hayley Atwell, Jaimie Alexander, Jeff Goldblum, Jeremy Renner, John Kani, Jon Favreau, Josh Brolin, Karen Gillan, Kat Dennings, Kurt Russell, Leslie Bibb, Mark Ruffalo, Michael B. Jordan, Michael Douglas, Michael Rooker, Natalie Portman, Neal McDonough, Ophelia Lovibond, Paul Bettany, Paul Rudd, Rachel House, Rachel McAdams, Samuel L. Jackson, Sean Gunn, Sebastian Stan, Seth Green, Stanley Tucci, Taika Waititi, Tilda Swinton, Toby Jones, Tom Hiddleston and Tom Vaughan-Lawlor.
Synopsis
Season two of “What If…?” continues the journey as The Watcher (voice of Jeffrey Wright) guides viewers through the vast Multiverse, introducing brand-new and familiar faces from the MCU. The series questions, revisits and twists classic Marvel Cinematic Universe moments with an incredible
voice cast that includes a host of stars who reprise their iconic roles.
Season two features fan-favorite characters this season like Nebula, Hela and Happy Hogan, episodes are directed by Bryan Andrews (eps 2-9) and Stephan Franck (ep 1) and written by AC Bradley (eps 3, 4, 5, 8), Matthew Chauncey (eps 1-3, 7, 9) and Ryan Little (eps 6, 8). The animated series is executive produced by Brad Winderbaum, Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Bryan Andrews and AC Bradley. The animated series begins streaming on Disney+ on Dec. 22—with a new episode debuting nightly for nine nights.
How do you feel about seeing Michael Douglas as Hank Pym in a 1980s setting? What are your expectations for this alternate Avengers line-up? Which other MCU characters would you love to see reimagined in different time periods? Share your thoughts and predictions, and join us in counting down on Discord.
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