I’ll keep this short and spoiler-free: I’m really digging this series and, as previously discussed, I”m not even a comic/superhero/MCU guy.
The chemistry between Anthony Mackie and Sebastian Stan as the title characters is more than carrying the load for someone naturally resistant to nerding out too much on plot. They are at the Odd Couple/Buddy Film of their relationship- still hilariously bickering with rat-a-tat dialogue at time, but also kicking bad guys’ asses.
Speaking of which, we learn who the villain is, and we see the Flag Smashers apparently on the run, but definitely set-up to live another day – feels like episode 3 is going to answer more questions about them.
But I have buried the lede, as the saying goes; Episode 2 kicks off with the ‘new’ Captain America (who we only saw for a quick second at the end of Episode 1). He’s no Steve Rogers, but he’s a wholesome hero with an impeccable resume.
He’s John Walker, played by Wyatt Russell, and he’s not easily figured out at a glance. On the one hand he seems reverential to what the gig symbolizes and sincere in his desire to handle the burden. But there’s also something kind of “I know I’m a Rockstar” vibe to him. Oh, and make no mistake, he is a rockstar. The episode starts with his introduction and his publicity tour before an adoring public. They love him!
So now he is the third wheel to Falcon and Winter Soldier – wanting to tag along and help fight, but his biggest battle for now might be a war of egos with fellow professionals who have superpowers, while he does not. Russell deserves credit for giving the character a bit of dimension.
Yeah, I am liking the production and characters – I am liking that the series continues to examine issues of race within the storyline in a way that feels totally organic ( a visit with a guest character opens the door for dialogue on the issue, but it’s threaded into a larger story- well done).
And I’m liking the deft blending of these things with humor and action. See you next week!
