Agent Peggy Carter is back and actress Hayley Atwell has never looked better. She has moved from streets of New York to the hills of Los Angeles. Continuing Marvel’s complex web of linking its storylines through both its TV and Cinematic properties, we are shown the origins of the Darkforce matter that was first introduced on Agents of SHIELD. Warning, spoilers ahead…
The two-hour premiere was basically two episodes sewn together and in a lot of ways, he felt like two stories. The first one dealt with some new faces to go along with the new location led by baddie couple, Calvin Chadwick (Currie Graham) and Whitney Frost (Wynn Everett) who may or may not have ties to Hydra. I say may or may not because Hydra is never mentioned by name but the circumstances and the secrecy surrounding them and their desire to get their hands on the Darkforce matter leads me to believe in such a connection. Then there’s Jason Wilkes (Reggie Austin) who happens to have a similar interest in said matter as well as an eye for Peggy. As season 2 moves along, we should learn more regarding everyone’s motives, desires and allegiances.
All of that was very cool and exciting because it links what is happening now on SHIELD. What wasn’t too exciting and was a bit wasted was the SSR story line back in New York revolving around Dottie (Bridget Regan) aka the Black Widow. Dottie is far too interesting to not utilize her talents. Her exchanges with both Peggy and Thompson makes you wish for more such scenes. And speaking of scenes, the fight between Peggy and Dottie to open up season 2 was too awesome to not have a future follow-up given how Dottie is Peggy’s equal in brains, beauty and brawn.
And then there’s Thompson and his mentor Vernon Masters (Kurtwood Smith). Vernon reminds Thompson that the SSR’s best days are behind them and that he needs to look towards the future. These could be the first steps towards the formation of SHIELD.
The direction of the show looks to hint at something more supernatural in nature which I’m okay with if it’s done right. I do think what works best for Agent Carter is as a Mission: Impossible type of series with intrigue and action. Hayley Atwell has proven that she is very much the leading lady who can pack a punch. I don’t mind humor but sometimes it can take away from detract from the overall flow of the story. I hope Marvel’s Agent Carter doesn’t lose its charm but curtailing the comedy would ultimately help in its longevity.
May the Dork be with you,
JPB
The Dork Knight
