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CINEMA

WRITTEN BY

AGATHA ALL ALONG (2024)

Limited Series.

Aired On: Disney+.

Release Date: 09/18/24.
Adventure. Comedy. Drama. Fantasy.

"A spell-bound Agatha Harkness regains freedom thanks to a teen's help. Intrigued by his plea, she embarks on the Witches' Road trials to reclaim her powers and discover the teen's motivations."

OUR REVIEW:

In recent years, I’ve found it a challenge to discover Halloween-season media that fits an adult audience without diving into the horror genre. The days of childhood staples like Hocus Pocus, Casper, and Disney Channel favorites like Halloweentown or Twitches are long behind me. While I’ll admit horror isn’t my go-to, I still crave something that captures the spirit of autumn. Yet, I’ve struggled to find anything fresh that resonates with my more mature tastes.

 

Shortly after the groundbreaking success of WandaVision, Marvel unveiled a new series centered around fan-favorite Agatha Harkness. Though it’s been years since her debut, excitement for this spin-off has only grown. Now, with the first two episodes streaming on Disney+, it’s clear the wait was worth it. Agatha All Along is a delightfully crafted addition to the MCU’s diverse TV lineup. It hits the perfect balance of mature spookiness without tipping into full-blown horror or thriller territory. It’s exactly the kind of show that satisfies my desires, and keeps you hooked and heightens the thrill of the Halloween season.

 

Three years after Wanda drained her powers in WandaVision, Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) remains in Westview, still grappling with the lingering effects of Wanda’s hex. When a mysterious and eager teenager (Joe Locke) arrives, Agatha becomes desperate to reclaim her magic. Determined, she assembles a coven to traverse the Witch’s Road—a powerful but perilous force that could potentially restore her to her former glory.

 

The series shines most in the tone it sets. Though the premise—a coven of witches journeying down a treacherous road—suggests a dive into dark storytelling, being part of the MCU keeps it from veering too far into true horror. While this could easily frustrate viewers, making it seem like the show is afraid to take risks, Agatha All Along strikes the perfect balance, delivering just the right amount of spooky fun for the Halloween season. Marvel clearly recognized this, smartly scheduling the series finale to align with Halloween. Each episode introduces fresh thrills and eerie settings, reminiscent of its predecessor WandaVision, while maintaining a consistent anchor with the Witch’s Road. The new music, especially “The Ballad of the Witch’s Road,” further enhances the autumnal atmosphere, perfectly capturing the seasonal mood.

 

Kathryn Hahn reprises her role as the mischievous and delightful Agatha Harkness, now leading her own series. The supporting cast is equally star-studded, featuring the legendary Patty LuPone and the ever-charismatic Aubrey Plaza. Agatha’s coven includes Heartstopper's Joe Locke, SNL alum Sasheer Zamata, and Ali Ahn. Debra Jo Rupp also returns as "Mrs. Hart" from WandaVision, injecting fun and comedic flair into the ensemble. The chemistry among the witches is electric, with each actor fully embracing their role, creating a dynamic and cohesive ensemble that elevates the series.

 

Unfortunately, Joe Locke’s performance stands out in the ensemble, and not for the best reasons. As the youngest member and the only male character, his portrayal feels a bit out of sync. While his shy, demure charm worked well in Heartstopper, his role as a sassy, immature teen in Agatha All Along doesn’t suit him as naturally. His character often disrupts the immersive world the series has carefully built, sometimes coming across more like a caricature of a fan-girl than a fully developed, believable character.

 

Despite this minor flaw, it doesn’t take away from the incredible experience Agatha All Along offers. Expertly crafted, the show is an ideal watch for the Halloween season. I, for one, will be eagerly awaiting each new episode and fully expect to make it a yearly tradition during the spooky season.

OUR VERDICT:

WHERE TO WATCH...

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