Agatha All Along review: Kathryn Hahn shines in ‘Marvel’s gayest offering yet’

In the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe, “Agatha All Along” emerges as a standout, showcasing a unique blend of humor, horror, and heartfelt storytelling. Following the reveal of Agatha Harkness as the antagonist in “WandaVision,” Kathryn Hahn’s character, Agatha, steps into the spotlight in this eagerly anticipated spin-off. Once a seemingly innocuous neighbor, Agatha, now a centuries-old dark witch, brings a refreshing complexity to the narrative, delightfully portrayed by Hahn.

The show, created by “WandaVision” showrunner Jac Schaeffer, continues in the vein of its predecessor by weaving a story within a story. Picking up after Agatha’s failed attempt to steal Wanda Maximoff’s powers left her trapped in the guise of “Agnes,” the series cleverly shifts its narrative tone. While Wanda processed her grief through the lens of sitcoms, Agatha finds herself navigating a darker realm reminiscent of prestige crime dramas. The series opens with a clever parody, “Agnes of Westview,” where Agatha stars as a no-nonsense detective reminiscent of characters from “Mare of Easttown.” This segment not only serves as a comedic tribute but also highlights Agatha’s transformation from a mere supporting character to a formidable lead.

However, the plot thickens when Agatha is liberated from her spell by a witch enthusiast, played by Joe Locke. He introduces her to the Witches’ Road, a series of trials she must undertake to regain her powers and evade the wrath of the menacing Salem Seven. This marks a departure from “WandaVision,” as “Agatha All Along” begins to carve its unique identity. It combines elements of horror, the adventurous spirit of “Scooby-Doo,” and the whimsical camp of “Hocus Pocus,” creating an engaging puzzle box for viewers.

To navigate the Witches’ Road, Agatha must form a coven, challenging her lone-wolf tendencies. The group she assembles is a delightful mix of eccentric characters: Patti LuPone shines as Lilia, a fortune teller in financial straits, while Ali Ahn plays Alice, the daughter of a legendary witch. Sasheer Zamata rounds out the ensemble as Jen, a witch-turned-wellness guru selling skincare products.

One of the most captivating dynamics in the series is between Agatha and Aubrey Plaza’s character, Rio Vidal, a green witch with a turbulent past with Agatha. Plaza’s portrayal, initially as a federal agent in Agatha’s detective fantasy, evolves into a chaotic yet irresistible presence within the coven. Their sizzling chemistry is at the heart of the narrative, which creators proudly tout as Marvel’s “gayest” offering. The series embraces queer representation through multiple characters, vibrant musical numbers, and fabulous makeovers for the coven, exploring themes of identity, persecution, and the importance of chosen family.

The exploration of witchcraft is central to the series, capturing the complexities often overlooked in mainstream portrayals. “Agatha All Along” balances playful spookiness with genuine scares, delving into the rich lore of witches while delivering a narrative that resonates with audiences, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. The series boldly addresses the multifaceted nature of witches, emphasizing sisterhood, generational curses, and the idea of empowerment through craft.

Despite their limited magical abilities, the coven’s journey is driven by hard work and collaboration, revealing deeper mysteries that leave fans speculating about character backstories and future developments. The identity of Locke’s character, known only as “Teen,” and questions surrounding Wanda’s fate keep viewers engaged.

Hahn’s portrayal of Agatha is both sharp and vulnerable, effectively showcasing the character’s evolution from a secondary role to a captivating lead. Her ability to balance humor with emotional depth adds significant weight to the narrative. While Marvel productions can sometimes feel detached due to their expansive visual effects, “Agatha All Along” proves that authentic chemistry among the cast can elevate the storytelling.

In essence, “Agatha All Along” is a magical romp that embraces the spectrum of emotions, blending silliness with darker themes. With a talented cast and a compelling narrative, the series stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of the Marvel universe, celebrating individuality and the power of connection within a whimsical, witchy framework.