Murphy's Multiverse

Author: Mary Maerz

  • REVIEW: ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 3—”Destined”

    REVIEW: ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 3—”Destined”

    Ms. Marvel’s third episode, “Destined”, does a remarkable job at maintaining the heart and integrity of the series while also bringing it to new heights in an exciting way. The episode hit the ground running straight off of Episode 2’s cliffhanger in Kamran and his mother’s car. There is a very welcome shift in pace throughout the beginning of the episode, which also takes the series in a very bold new direction. While the bangle remains mysterious, Kamran’s mom, Najma’s, explanation of its history to Kamala suggests that Najma (along with her family) and Kamala’s mysterious great-grandmother Aisha are Clandestines, or Djinn, from another dimension. While their narrative should be taken with a grain of salt at this point, they seek Kamala’s power to get them back to their home Noor dimension from which they had been exiled. The very end of the episode suggests there is more to the story of Aisha’s disappearance still, as Najma shows both Kamala and her grandmother Sana a vision of a train marked “Karachi”, which seems to be a callback to Sana’s family’s escape from India and Aisha’s disappearance. 

    The rest of the third episode once more brought the Kamala Khan charm to the screen. Particularly in the wedding scene, the episode proves that Ms. Marvel is one of the most colorful Marvel Studio’s projects in existence and is filled to the brim with personality. The teenage drama involved in Kamala’s story is amplified here, as she struggles to maintain trust, confidence, and honesty with and from her friends and family. Bruno begins to hesitate about Kamala’s plans with the bangle and tells her he is headed to CalTech, which complicates their adorably awkward crush-type relationship. Nakia angrily discovers that Kamala is actually the masked person who has caused problems for the community, and Kamala’s relationship with her family is further strained by her inability to tell them what she is going through. 

    The episode spends much time celebrating and dissecting the concept of family. This theme was introduced, foreshadowed, and explored in the first two episodes, but Episode 3 featured multiple scenes back to back that explicitly state the importance of family through dialogue. Kamala’s relationship with the Clandestines is yet another layer to that discussion—assuming they are to some extent her family, what is her duty to them? How can Kamala honor her lineage or heritage while not betraying her closer family and community?

    While we have still yet to see Kamala go into full superhero mode, the episode’s first major action scene set to Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On a Prayer” was a strong start for the series in that regard. This episode also solidified the villains of Ms. Marvel even if there was no surprise to it. The tease of the mask Bruno made Kamala tees up her eventual triumphant debut as her own bona fide superhero, but that moment still seems potentially distant on the horizon.

    Overall, Episode 3 of Ms. Marvel dramatically raises the stakes and implications for both Kamala and the series. While the more “classic” elements of the series are still going strong—teenage awkwardness, crushes, family responsibilities, and self-discovery—there is now an additional element of inter-dimensional or multiversal travel and Kamala’s direct connection to it. The fact that there is a missing bangle is a mystery that foreshadows its inclusion down the line. Sana’s request that Kamala and her mother come to Karachi is clearly setting up an adaptation of the Ms. Marvel comics “Mecca” arc, but it also is the prime (or closer to it) location for exposing the truth about Kamala’s family history, the significance of the bangles, and Kamala’s powers.

  • ‘Ms. Marvel’ From Page to Screen: Episode 2

    ‘Ms. Marvel’ From Page to Screen: Episode 2

    Welcome back to another installment of From Page to Screen. Last week we looked at how Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel adapted Kamala’s power-activation moment from Ms. Marvel comics in the series’ first episode. Episode 2, titled “Crushed,” is another example of how Ms. Marvel is taking quite a bit of inspiration from its comics origins. Looking at the comics, the story arc featured in Ms. Marvel #13-15 is also entitled “Crushed” and they have one major thing in common—Kamala’s crush Kamran. The character of Kamran played an important role in Kamala Khan’s early days as a superhero in the comics and is also clearly going to be a significant force in driving the series’ plot forward. 

    In both iterations of the character, Kamala falls head over heels for Kamran practically the second she sets eyes on him—sometimes that just happens. In the comics, he is a family friend who is visiting. In the series, however, Kamala meets him for the first time at school but otherwise does not know much about him. In any event, both page and screen Kamala find themselves enamored over Kamran, whom they share countless interests with on top of having in common similar life experiences. In the comics, the two bond over some wild coincidences in their lives, but in both comics and series, Kamala and Kamran have impassioned discussions over Bollywood movies and stars.

    Ms. Marvel #13 (2015)
    Ms. Marvel #13 (2015)
    Ms. Marvel #13 (2015)
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 2
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 2

    Interestingly enough, Aamir serves to interrupt the two’s first meeting/hangout in every version of the story. In the comics, he chaperoned the two on a walk but butted in when it looked like the two were about to hold hands. In Episode 2, Aamir arrives at a similar time to ruin the mood, but he does not actually know Kamran (yet) in live-action other than through this encounter. It is then also Aamir who first causes Bruno to admit he has feelings for Kamala. On both page and screen, Bruno is clearly jealous of Kamala’s interest in Kamran. In the comics, Aamir tells Bruno that he and Kamala could never work, and this is the first time in the Ms. Marvel comic that Bruno’s romantic interest in Kamala is made explicit. In the series, Kamala and Bruno’s relationship is sure to go down that path, and Kamran may just be the spark Bruno needs to figure out his own feelings and maybe someday make a move. 

    Ms. Marvel #13 (2015)
    Ms. Marvel #13 (2015)
    Ms. Marvel #13 (2015)
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 2
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 2

    But what happens next with Kamran in the comics is where the series’ adaptation will be most interesting. In the comics, Kamran reveals himself as an Inhuman to Kamala (whose comic iteration is also Inhuman) and shows her his powers. Kamala is shocked but also intrigued at yet another—and major—thing the two have in common. In Ms. Marvel, Kamran’s reveal was left as the cliffhanger at the end of Episode 2. Like in the comics, he clearly knew that Kamala was the masked, super-powered person dressed like Captain Marvel. He also introduces Kamala to his mother, who was the mysterious woman Kamala kept seeing in her bangle-induced visions. It is safe to say that Kamran may have some powers of his own given the connection, but we have yet to see any. 

    Ms. Marvel #13 (2015)
    Ms. Marvel #13 (2015)
    Ms. Marvel #14 (2015)
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 2
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 2

    It is easy to guess how the car conversation plays out. But first, it is fun to mention that Kamran essentially picks her up and kidnaps her in his car in both the comics and the series. But in the comics, Kamran is a member of an Inhuman faction that believes Inhumans should take their place as the superior beings on Earth and overthrow the existing Inhuman order. In short, he is a henchman for a group of villainous Inhumans who want to take over the world. He believes he can recruit Kamala for the cause, even if our superhero is not convinced by the evil rhetoric. At the end of the day, Kamran is a significant villain Kamala must ultimately defeat in the early days of being a superhero.

    Ms. Marvel #14 (2015)
    Ms. Marvel #14 (2015)
    Ms. Marvel #14 (2015)
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 2
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 2

    Kamran will certainly play some version of that role in Ms. Marvel. But with the absence of Inhumans, it will surely be a bit different. What might end up being the same, however, is the general theme of superior heritage—Kamran and his mother may very likely tell Kamala who she is in terms of where she got her powers from, tell her they come from the same lineage or have the same genes, and then pitch to her that they are superior to other people and should live up to that “destiny.” It is a strong storyline that would allow the series to utilize the comics extensively, but also use it to advance Kamala’s family history mystery and force Kamala to grapple with her own identity and who she or what she is meant to become.

    Ms. Marvel #15 (2015)

    In conclusion, while the Inhuman Problem (the lack of Inhumans in Ms. Marvel) throws a wrench in adapting the comics, the live-action series is actually doing quite an exemplary job of accurately translating Ms. Marvel’s pages to the screen. As stated before, live-action Kamran comes straight from Ms. Marvel #13-15, and “Crushed” certainly looks like a story arc that the series intends to play out.

    The first two episodes of Ms. Marvel are now streaming on Disney+. 

  • Kamala Khan Could Still Be Inhuman in ‘Ms. Marvel’

    Kamala Khan Could Still Be Inhuman in ‘Ms. Marvel’

    Viewers are slowly learning more about Kamala Khan’s powers and their origins in Ms. Marvel. The unfolding mystery is the result of the apparent overhaul of the titular character’s super-powered background as it existed in the comics. While her actual powers are clearly different from those Kamala had on the page, another likely change still hangs over the live-action series. In the comics, Kamala was Inhuman and her exposure to Terrigen Mist is what activated her powers. While it seems unlikely the series is keeping this aspect of the character, some are holding out hope. So could Kamala be Inhuman in Ms. Marvel? Let’s look at both sides of that question.

    The Case Against Kamala Being Inhuman

    The existence, or at least the recognition, of Inhumans in the Marvel Cinematic Universe is complicated. While a multiversal Black Bolt serving as a member of the Illuminati in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is clear evidence of Inhumans in the multiverse, the canonicity of Earth-616 Inhumans is hotly debated. Inhumans were prominent in Marvel Television’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and, eventually, their own spinoff series on ABC. Moving past the actual arguments on whether those shows are canon to the MCU, the simple fact that it is debated is not a good sign for Kamala Khan as an Inhuman. 

    On a common-sense level, it seems less likely that a Marvel Studios production would be drawing inspiration for those shows when crafting Ms. Marvel. Furthermore, Inhuman-related events in Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. alone would have had a substantial impact on the MCU that we simply have not seen and would need to be reconciled. So, if Ms. Marvel were to include Kamala as an Inhuman, on a practical level the series would be introducing or formally establishing that group in the MCU. It does not seem likely that Marvel Studios would want to do this in a Disney+ series focused on Kamala and her cultural heritage.

    Another reason for doubting an Inhuman presence in Ms. Marvel is that the activation of her powers did not really fall in line with what is known about Inhumans. The bangle that was passed down through her family clearly has some superhuman or supernatural quality that unlocked Kamala’s powers. There was no Terrigen Mist or anything that seemed remotely close to its present (but see below for an argument against that). She also did not seem to go through the process of Terrigenesis, which generally ends in the subject morphing inside of a cocoon. 

    Lastly, as hinted at above, Ms. Marvel seems to be dedicated to exploring Kamala’s history through a much more personal familial lens. While being an Inhuman would also carry that theme, it would likely distance the story from the more intimate, culturally-focused one we have seen over the course of the first two episodes. Episode 2 ended in a way that could suggest that Kamala is connected to a much larger superhuman group, but rumors that Kamala or her adversaries may be connected to Djinn in some way could explain that.

    The Reasons Why Kamala Might Be Inhuman

    Despite the fact that Marvel Studios has offered no direct or overly obvious foreshadowing of Kamala being Inhuman in Ms. Marvel, there are still plenty of avenues to speculate that her Inhuman origin will be revealed later in the series. Perhaps the most obvious argument is that Kamala in Inhuman in the comics and that connection plays a major role in her character at times. While the MCU is not particularly known for its dedication to being comic accurate, not having Kamala be Inhuman is indeed a major change to the character even by MCU standards. But Wanda and Pietro Maximoff are an easy example of Marvel Studios overhauling a then-established origin of their characters. 

    With that comic history comes a fan base that wants to see Kamala remain Inhuman in the MCU. Fans do not determine Marvel Studios’ decisions, but the franchise certainly would be aware of the reactions. It is also clear that the MCU will formally introduce or establish Inhumans in the main Earth-616 universe at some point. Arguably, Kamala could be a good character to start with. Plus, if other Inhumans are introduced relatively soon, it might be a bit awkward that Kamala is not one of them. 

    Another consideration is how Kamala will connect to Captain Marvel and The Marvels. The Captain Marvel corner of the universe—from what we know about it—is very Kree-heavy. Monica Rambeau seems to have Skrull connections, which connects her to that arena as well. If Kamala were Inhuman, that would mean she is descended from those who were genetically modified by Kree and with Kree DNA. This would arguably be able to give her a proper connection going into The Marvels since we do not have much of one yet.

    Even though no Terrigen Mist seemed present when Kamala’s powers were activated, there is speculation that her bangle actually contained Terrigen Crystals instead. There is no evidence that truly disproves that theory, though the question of why she did not appear to go through Terrigenesis remains. One theory is that Kamala is slowly going through the process and will fully do so by the end of the series.

    Finally, in response to the Djinn rumors and theories, there is still an argument that it is all connected to Inhumans at the end of the day. Rumors that one adversary Kamala will face in Ms. Marvel is a version of ClanD estine—a superhuman family descended from a Djinn—may not matter. Perhaps Clan Destine is actually a faction of Inhumans, or maybe the terminology involving Djinn and Inhuman gets interchanged (though that seems odd). Maybe Djinn are involved but not connected to Kamala, or maybe those rumors are all false.

    At the end of the day, it is understandable that many are frustrated or confused at the concept of Kamala not being Inhuman. While nothing on the surface of Ms. Marvel so far has pointed clearly to her being Inhuman, there is no denying that there is still plenty of room for some fans to hope that it will be established by the end of the series. 

    The first two episodes of Ms. Marvel are now streaming on Disney+.

  • Theory Thursday: A Mysterious Comics Character May Explain ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 2 Mystery

    Theory Thursday: A Mysterious Comics Character May Explain ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 2 Mystery

    Ms. Marvel Episode 2 built a solid foundation for the mystery of Kamala Khan’s super-powered origins. The apparent change in her powers and origin from the comics is one of the most discussed topics with the live-action adaptation, but the fact that there exists a bona fine mystery in the series’ plot is certainly worth something. While there is plenty to speculate about concerning Kamala’s family history and the nature of the bangle that activated her powers, a smaller detail about her history could have major implications going forward. This article discusses how an interesting cosmic character from the comics could play a role in both Kamala’s past and future.

    In the most recent episode of Ms. Marvel, Kamala’s dad recounted the story of Kamala’s mother’s family during Partition. While leaving India, Kamala’s grandmother was a toddler. She was separated from her family after her mother disappeared without a trace. The toddler was able to find her way back to the last train and the rest of her family by following a trail of stars. This story, along with some other theories about how Kamala’s powers may connect to the greater universe, may hint at the introduction of Singularity, a peculiar character from the comics.

    A-Force (2016)

    Not much is known about Singularity, but she is supposedly a sentient quantum singularity who was once affiliated with A-Force. Generally, Singularity can teleport dozens of people vast distances, fly, cross dimensional barriers, and use osmosis to absorb objects or people into her form, within which a pocket universe apparently exists. Interestingly, Singularity is humanoid in form but her body simply looks like the night sky, including stars. 

    Singularity could be involved in Kamala’s family history in several ways, but the “trail of stars” certainly invokes her imagery. The fact that she can exist outside of time and move through dimensions could connect to Kamala’s power connections to the Quantum Realm or quantum energy in general. If the bangle belonged to Kamala’s great grandmother, she presumably had some access to the powers. Perhaps something went wrong with quantum energy she she was removed from time, which would be similar to how Kamala met Singularity in Ms. Marvel comics. In that way, the cosmic being may have been an ally. But perhaps Kamala’s ancestor actually became Singularity, which would make sense that she helped guide her daughter back to her family.  

    Ms. Marvel (2015)

    Interestingly, there may have been a hint in Episode 1 that Singularity could be related to Captain Marvel in some way. It is a bit more of a stretch, but the Captain Marvel figurine at AvengerCon looks like a sparkly, dark blue figure in costume. In other words, it kind of looked like Singularity. If Carol Danvers was somehow involved in the story of Kamala’s great grandmother, it would provide for a direct connection between her and Kamala by the end of the series. It might also answer some lingering questions about what Danvers has been up to since Avengers: Endgame. But there is meaningful imagery in Kamala gazing at the Singularity-looking figure at AvengerCon if she might have the opportunity to look up to the actual being.

    Ms. Marvel so far promises to be a fun and suspenseful mystery. Episode 2 raised far more questions about Kamala’s story than answers, which means that there is plenty of room to theorize for the series. Singularity has comics history with Kamala, so it would be interesting to see if or how she would make the jump into live-action. 

    The first two episodes of Ms. Marvel are now streaming on Disney+.

  • Kamala Khan’s New Origin is an Upgrade for ‘Ms. Marvel’

    Kamala Khan’s New Origin is an Upgrade for ‘Ms. Marvel’

    Two episodes into Ms. Marvel, viewers are left with more questions than answers about Kamala Khan’s powers and their origin. Much of this stems from the fact that the series has seemingly overhauled the superhero’s origin from the comics, and plenty of debate on that has ensued. Of course, any significant change from the comics for any character will ruffle some feathers, but Ms. Marvel is demonstrating why it can be a positive thing. While we are still learning how Kamala’s story will play out, the changes in the Marvel Cinematic Universe so far have some obvious advantages.

    There is no dancing around the fact that Kamala does not appear to be Inhuman like she is in the comics. There are countless rumors that theorize how she will ultimately be revealed as Inhuman, but there are countless others that support what the series has shown so far—the Inhuman aspect is not in play. Still, Kamala’s story looks like it will still bring many of those important aspects but also improve on them. The familial history and heritage aspects are still intact in Ms. Marvel. It is crystal clear that whatever her powers’ origin is, it is tied to her ancestors. The series may be actually taking this a step further in the sense that Kamala’s Pakistani and Muslim background drives that journey. While in the comics she was connected to a larger, well-known super-group, in the MCU she may learn she is part of a larger group or family that is more closely tied to her culture that is front and center for Kamala in Ms. Marvel anyway.

    No matter your preference on Kamala’s new “hard light” powers versus her comics version’s embiggening abilities, her MCU powers are still inherently Kamala. When early rumors and news came out that her bangle would be the source of her powers, there was some reasonable concern over the concept of Kamala not actually possessing powers of her own. But the second episode of Ms. Marvel whisked away those fears when Bruno confirmed that the powers stem from Kamala and that the bangle seemed to simply activate them. 

    But perhaps the greatest upgrade her power change relates to Ms. Marvel’s story. In the age of a hyper-connected universe, it is easy for an individual story or plot to get lost in the greater scheme of the MCU. But here, her unknown origin is driving a mystery that so far is a driving force in the alluring nature of the main story of the series. By dissolving the foundation laid by the comics, the MCU opened up space for the growth of new ideas. For an MCU series, new ideas mean fans have far fewer resources to predict how Ms. Marvel will actually play out. The overhaul of Kamala’s super-powered origin leaves a mystery-filled space that keeps both hardcore comic book readers and casual fans on edge to learn more. It arguably makes for a more engaging and better series, and it allows viewers to speculate and theorize more than they would have been able to if her background closely mirrored the comics.

    Overall, the loss of Kamala’s embiggening powers will always leave a sour taste in many fans’ mouths. Without discounting that, there is still reason to be optimistic about where the changes will lead Ms. Marvel and affect Kamala in the series and in her MCU future. In the long term, it may open up an entirely new corner of the MCU or connect Kamala to the universe in a way that transcends the comics. In the short term, it may help Ms. Marvel be a phenomenal standalone series.

    The first two episodes of Ms. Marvel are now streaming on Disney+.

  • REVIEW: ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 2

    REVIEW: ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 2

    After the triumphant first episode of Ms. Marvel, the series is back for its second installment. It brings most of the same shine and quirkiness, but it competes with a deeper, darker narrative as well as classic Marvel Cinematic Universe storytelling. It is still a bit too soon to figure out what exactly Ms. Marvel’s ultimate tone will be, but Episode 2 proves it has the potential to be just about anything. A coming-of-age comedy, a superhero origin story, or an emotional mystery—all of those elements can be easily teased out of this episode.

    While the series’ premiere felt emphatically unique, the second episode’s venture into more rigorous superhero territory fairly brings up concerns as to whether Ms. Marvel might eventually suffer from being “too MCU.” After all, Kamala Khan is directly connected to other heroes in the universe, and there is no denying that she will make her way into a variety of future projects. Episode 2 undoubtedly took on more conventional superhero or superpower-type tropes, though no one would expect the series not to feel like part of the universe. Still, the personality of Episode 1 felt slightly diluted in this episode, which may be something to keep an eye on as the series continues.

    The second episode aptly showcases a couple of dualities. The layers to Kamala’s story not only reflect the nuance of her character but also the complexity of the story being told. It is easy to pick out the fact that she now has two identities—“Night Light” and Kamala—but it goes further.

    On one hand, Kamala is a regular teenager with concerns such as crushes and parties. In regard to that part of Kamala, Episode 2 featured lighter subplots and more trivial (but genuine concerns). On the other hand, she is gradually getting engulfed in a clearly darker narrative surrounding her newfound powers and her family history. There is almost an awkward tension between the two levels of Ms. Marvel, though given the awkwardness of teenage years perhaps that is the point.

    While Kamala’s superhero tale unfolds, it is looking like the future Ms. Marvel will be facing two major adversaries as well. Obviously, the Department of Damage Control has made a strong racist and xenophobic entrance as a comic book DIY United States Homeland Security. Her escape from them and their drones at the end of Episode 2 cements their role as ongoing foes, but signs are pointing elsewhere for the true threat of Ms. Marvel. With nothing but some visions and an ominous final scene, Kamran’s mother is already radiating big bad energy. Kamran himself is a villain in the comics, so there is little reason to think that Kamala has not encountered her match for the series in him and his family. Given the strong familial themes of both the live-action series and Ms. Marvel comics, there is a good chance Kamala might see these new faces as trustworthy before the truth comes crashing down.

    The second episode of Ms. Marvel proves that the series did not peak in its first episode. While concessions may be made to support the ever-present greater MCU (both in front of and behind the camera), Kamala still outshines most freshman heroes across the board. Not only that, but the series is doing something that virtually no comic book adaptations can actually do: make it all a mystery. Because Kamala’s powers and origins have seemingly been overhauled from the comics, casual and hardcore fans alike have no idea what to expect with the revelation of her backstory. To keep all audiences on the edges of their seats in the MCU is not an easy feat, and it might be another reason Ms. Marvel ends up as one of the most successful Marvel Studios projects. 

    The first two episodes of Ms. Marvel are now streaming on Disney+. 

  • ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 2 May Have Introduced an Obscure Super Group as Kamala’s Foe

    ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 2 May Have Introduced an Obscure Super Group as Kamala’s Foe

    The mystery of Kamala Khan’s powers and her family’s past was in the spotlight in Ms. Marvel Episode 2. So far, the series has done a great job at keeping this aspect of Kamala’s story in suspense, and the most recent episode certainly ended in a cliffhanger that will surely take the series in a new direction. But while the show itself has not made much overly obvious to fans, we might have an idea as to where it is headed. The tail end of Episode 2 might have given us our first glimmer at one of Kamala’s main adversaries, and it is a group you may have never heard of. 

    Throughout Episode 2, Kamala finds herself with a hardcore crush on the new senior, Kamran. The two have a lot in common and he seems to show a lot of interest in Kamala in return. At the end of the episode, however, it becomes clear that he is more than a new kid in school. He helps Kamala escape the Department of Damage Control, making it clear he knew she was the super-powered person who dresses like Captain Marvel. Even more, he introduces Kamala to his mother who just so happens to be the lady Kamala kept seeing in her visions when her bangle would act out. 

    In the comics, Kamran was an Inhuman who gained Kamala’s trust in order to recruit her to a faction of Inhumans that, because of a superiority complex, was trying, essentially, to destroy Earth’s non-Inhuman population. But considering Inhumans are not likely at play in Ms. Marvel, Kamran may be a member of a different kind of superhuman group. The fact that his mother is already involved speaks to how genes and lineages are still important to the character and to his connection to Kamala. 

    Once it became known that Kamala’s powers and origin were being changed for Ms. Marvel, rumors circulated that Kamala, her powers, or something major in the series were related to Djinn. Djinn, or Jinn, are spirits in Islamic mythology and theology. Anglicized as “genies”, these spirits are recognized in Marvel comics as an ancient race with powerful magical abilities. Ms. Marvel has off-handedly mentioned Djinn or “evil Djinn” multiple times so far. Going back to the importance of family, heritage, and genes in Kamala’s origins, Marvel has a super-powered family that descends from a powerful Djinn, and that may be what Kamran is a member of.

    The comic book super-family Clan Destine is a family of super-powered individuals that spans centuries given the immortality of the patriarch, Adam Destine, which came from the magic of the mother of all the children, the Djinn Elalyth. Clan Destine is not particularly well-known, and the group is neither a superhero nor supervillain one, but instead, certain members have taken on their own roles. But considering the super family is not popular and a bit odd, why would Ms. Marvel feature them as an adversary?

    Technically, we do not know that Kamran and his mom are villains, but considering Kamran’s comics history and the general tone at the end of Episode 2, it is probably a safe bet that they will ultimately not be on Kamala’s side. Kamran’s mother looked to be from a very different time period when she would appear in Kamala’s visions, so it looks likely that she may be the immortal leader like Adam Destine is in the comics. But using Clan Destine as a template or inspiration would allow Kamala’s story to still take the Inhuman-like structure but without Inhumans. 

    Whether or not Kamala would be related to the Clan Destine-type family in Ms. Marvel is an interesting question. On one hand, it makes a lot of sense considering the Djinn connection could explain her powers and fill in the gaps in her mysterious family history. Kamran’s role as a distant relative would also be preserved from the comics, and his motivation in recruiting her to supposedly advocate for the larger family could similarly make its way into the live-action series. 

    Whether Kamran and his mother are part of “Clan Destine” or a family group that resembles it is yet to be seen. But it would be an interesting way for the Marvel Cinematic Universe to keep Kamala’s traditional origin story relatively intact while avoiding the concept of Inhuman if they choose to go that route.

    The first two episodes of Ms. Marvel are now streaming on Disney+. 

  • ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 2 Dropped the MCU’s First ‘Eternals’ Reference

    ‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 2 Dropped the MCU’s First ‘Eternals’ Reference

    It is no secret that the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s latest series, Ms. Marvel, is a haven for Easter eggs and references to the rest of the franchise. Teenage soon-to-be superhero Kamala Khan is a fangirl of the Avengers herself, so between her conversations and AvengerCon, the new series almost certainly already holds the record for most MCU easter eggs in a project. Among all of it, though, the second episode of Ms. Marvel dropped a particularly interesting MCU reference.

    While Kamala and Kamran are at the restaurant, they bond over things they have in common. One of those things is a love for Bollywood movies. When mentioning which celebrities they like, Kamala mentions that her mom, embarrassingly, still has a crush on Kingo, Sr. It is a quick name drop that is easy to miss, especially for viewers not as familiar with Bollywood stars. But the mention is a reference to Kumail Nanjiani’s Kingo from Eternals. As we learned in that movie, Kingo has posed as a long line of Bollywood stars, embodying a new generation of “Kingo” as he ages in order to avoid exposing himself as immortal.

    Interestingly, this reference to Kingo is actually the first Eternals reference in the MCU since the movie was released last November. We did learn that Moon Knight creators at one point wanted Eternals—particularly Kingo—in an Ancient Egypt flashback scene. Alas, it never happened. Because the ending of Eternals left many of the Eternals with a fairly ambiguous fate, little glimmers like this reference in Ms. Marvel are all fans have to go on until they formally return to the screen.

    The easter egg is also interesting because it is practically the only reference that Kamala is unaware of the significance of. She, of course, loves the Avengers and other known superheroes, such as Doctor Strange, but the Kingo nod is a reminder that the regular people of the MCU still have no idea about the existence of the Eternals. It also leaves major questions for Eternals open—for example, how have people reacted to the giant marble Celestial in the ocean or the even larger Celestial that appeared over Earth in the film? Perhaps someday we will find out, but that day is not today.

    The first two episodes of Ms. Marvel are now streaming on Disney+. 

  • ‘Ms. Marvel’ From Page to Screen: Episode 1

    ‘Ms. Marvel’ From Page to Screen: Episode 1

    Ms. Marvel has finally premiered its first episode, which means it is time for another round of our From Page to Screen feature. Previously, we compared the comics to their live-action counterparts for each episode of Hawkeye and Moon Knight. Now, it is Ms. Marvel’s turn. Despite making headlines for significantly changing Kamala’s powers and origins for live-action series, Episode 1 has revealed that the show may be much more comics accurate than some would have guessed. Here, we look at how the first episode adapted the moment Kamala discovered she had powers from the comics.

    The Comics

    Kamala’s power discovery or power activation moment comes across the first two issues of Ms. Marvel (2014). In Ms. Marvel #1, Kamala is exposed to Terrigen mist from the Terrigen Bomb as she is leaving a party that her parents would not have allowed her to be at. After being exposed, she has a vision of some Avengers, including her hero Carol Danvers/Captain Marvel. After breaking out of her cocoon, she discovers she looks like Carol Danvers in her old Ms. Marvel costume.

    Ms. Marvel #1 (2014)
    Ms. Marvel #1 (2014)
    Ms. Marvel #1 (2014)

    Ms. Marvel #2 reveals the rest of the story. While wandering around after being exposed to the mist, Kamala realizes she has the ability to shapeshift and stretch and elongate parts of her body. She witnesses Zoe Zimmer fall into the water and not come back up. She rushes in—as Carol Danvers Ms. Marvel—to save her. She scoops Zoe out of the water with a giant and elongated arm and hand. 

    Ms. Marvel #2 (2014)

    There are people around who take photos and videos of “Ms. Marvel” saving Zoe, which leads people in Jersey City to think that Carol Danvers was around and saving the day in her old costume. Kamala tries to sneak back into her room late, but she is caught by her family. 

    What They Kept

    Ms. Marvel #1 (2014)
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 1
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 1

    Despite the MCU’s Kamala seemingly having a very different origin in terms of her powers, this “power discovery” moment for the character is, perhaps surprisingly, notably comics accurate. While AvengerCon is certainly no traditional high school party, Kamala’s mom calls it a “party” when she forbids her from going. 

    Ms. Marvel #2 (2014)
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 1
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 1

    At the “party”, Kamala’s powers get activated, but the differences in that aspect are discussed more below. In any event, she still has what appears to be a vision (or something vision-like) as they are awakened. Even more, she ultimately uses her newfound powers to save Zoe from danger. The moment she breaks Zoe’s fall from the giant replica Mjolnir, her powers create a light construct that looks like a giant extended arm and fist in a clear homage to the comics.

    People at AvengersCon took photos and videos of Kamala saving Zoe which go on to make Kamala go viral. Her identity is not known and all that is known about her is that she was dressed as Captain Marvel, aka Carol Danvers. Afterward, Kamala tries to sneak back home, but her mom catches her.

    Ms. Marvel #2 (2014)
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 1
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 1

    What They Changed

    The general narrative structure of Kamala’s power discovery moment is the same, but the MCU of course made significant changes. Obviously, the setting of AvengerCon is different, although this is likely to give Kamala a reason for looking like Captain Marvel when she first acts as a hero. Similarly, in Ms. Marvel Kamala is merely dressed like Captain Marvel rather than actually shapeshifting into Carol Danvers as Ms. Marvel. In that way, there is no confusion as to the fact that Kamala is not Carol, but she is still sort of “stuck” with that costume and association after getting attention for saving Zoe. Of course, she does not dress like comics Ms. Marvel because the MCU never had that mantle, though Zoe’s cosplay with that classic costume is another homage to the comics.

    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 1
    Marvel Studios’ Ms. Marvel Episode 1

    The reason Kamala’s moment comes at a time when she happened to be dressed as Captain Marvel is a product of the changes Marvel Studios made to her powers. In live-action, she is not exposed to Terrigen mist and does not appear to be Inhuman, but instead, the bangle is what appears to awaken her abilities. Her “vision” is not of the Avengers but remains a mystery. Instead of having stretchy, embiggening, or shapeshifting powers, she appears to be able to create energy or light constructs that are crystal-like and breakable. She uses them to save Zoe, although her lack of control of her powers is what caused the danger in the first place. 

    Ms. Marvel #1 (2014)

    We will keep analyzing how the comics-inspired Ms. Marvel as the series continues. The first episode is now streaming on Disney+.

  • Deadpool Should Be the MCU’s LGBTQ+ Icon

    Deadpool Should Be the MCU’s LGBTQ+ Icon

    Pride Month is in full swing, meaning people, organizations, and even companies are celebrating or showing support for LGBTQ+ persons across the globe. Marvel is certainly one of those companies, and the brand is eager to highlight its queer representation in its properties. Previously, we have taken a look back at one of Marvel Comics’ milestones. And while the comics certainly have more history to draw from, the Marvel Cinematic Universe notably lags in LGBTQ+ representation across its franchise.

    The MCU is absolutely gaining momentum here, with recent additions such as Phastos in Eternals and America Chavez in Doctor: Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The franchise even promises more inclusion in the near future with characters like Valkyrie in Thor: Love and Thunder. As with any underrepresented group, there is always pushback from an unfortunate corner of the supposed fandom when any major (or minor) character is explicitly queer.

    While we can celebrate the progress the MCU has made and is continuing to make, there is room for the Disney-owned company to make a significant and bold statement in support of LGBTQ+ representation on screen. The MCU needs a strong queer icon, and there is no better choice than the Merc with a Mouth himself. Below are four major reasons why Deadpool should be MCU’s LGBTQ+ icon.

    Deadpool Has Long Been Established as LGBTQ+

    Important to any conversation about queer representation is an understanding of the character themselves. In Deadpool’s case, there is no question that Wade Wilson is an out member of the LGBTQ+ community. The comics antihero was first confirmed as pansexual by writer Gerry Duggan, though the terminology to describe Deadpool’s sexuality has fittingly been in flux—the character’s co-creator Fabian Nicieza emphasized this back in 2015.

    Deadpool has become well-known as a pansexual symbol for many, including Fox-universe Deadpool director Tim Miller, who previously expressed his support for showcasing Deadpool’s sexuality in the movie franchise. While the character clearly has a female love interest in the live-action franchise, any viewer simply has to pay attention to Deadpool and Deadpool 2’s dialogue to know that the character’s interests go beyond the opposite sex.

    In any event, the fact that Deadpool is already a well-known queer character in the comics and has the support of many of the films’ creators, including actor Ryan Reynolds (see below), to bring that aspect of the hero into live-action is a perfect starting point for the character to further embrace that when he makes his MCU debut.

    Deadpool Is High-Profile

    When any franchise begins to embrace and increase diversity among its characters, those characters tend to often get assigned more minor roles. It does not take rocket science to understand why, but it is another reason why the MCU should wholeheartedly embrace Deadpool as LGBTQ+. Of course, the more prominent a queer character is, the more backlash they will receive. But frankly, Deadpool is already beloved across wide demographics. While he has not made his MCU debut yet, the character is established in the greater Marvel film universe, so opinions of the super-powered mercenary have already been formed. If Deadpool were to act as one of the leading LGBTQ+ characters of the MCU, it would give the character a huge platform for representation that other characters simply do not have yet.

    Deadpool’s Fan Base Spans a Wide Demographic

    It goes without saying that LGBTQ+ people—and fictional characters by extension—are subject to a wide range of stereotypes and discrimination based solely on their sexual orientation or gender identity. Certain segments of the population, including MCU fans, support queer inclusion less than others. When new LGBTQ+ characters are introduced, it is quite easy for those people to immediately be hostile toward the idea that a single character in a movie may make them uncomfortable. For example, both Phastos and America Chavez were queer characters of color, which led to hatred and accusations of “wokeness” long before their respective films were ever released.

    Make no mistake, all LGBTQ+ characters—including women, trans, and those of color—should be fully supported by the MCU, Disney, and the vast majority of fans who have no issue with characters reflecting the real world. But in an age where the ignorant backlash is so common, Deadpool is a character that, for several reasons, has the advantage to cut through much of that in the MCU. That can be a win for the character, but it should be recognized that it could help pave the way for other queer characters.

    Deadpool is well known for being vulgar and hyperviolent among plenty of other traits. He is loved for his mature themes as well as his basic charisma and humor. The character is a hit across nearly all adult and teen demographics, and that includes demographics that may otherwise not be so supportive of LGBTQ+ representation. If the MCU’s Deadpool 3, for example, made the hero’s sexuality explicit and left no room for audiences to argue whether or not he is queer, Deadpool then becomes a symbol or icon for LGBTQ+ people across the board. In addition, it may force certain groups of people to question their assumptions and biases if one of their favorite characters also happens to not be straight.

    Deadpool’s LGBTQ+ Identity Has Ryan Reynolds’ Support

    There is no dancing around the fact that actor Ryan Reynolds, the epitome of Deadpool, is well-loved and respected in the entertainment community generally as well as for his embodiment of Wade Wilson. Reynolds has several times made it clear that he would love for the Deadpool franchise to explore Deadpool’s pansexuality, and very much wants Marvel to let the character be explicitly queer in the future. Deadpool 3 will actually be Marvel Studios’ first non-Spider-Man co-production, with Reynolds’ Maximum Effort Productions also in the producer’s role. While Reynolds will not have unilateral control over the character’s future, he undoubtedly has a lot. With the support of someone as powerful as the actor/producer/businessman is, though, the amount to which MCU could push the envelope with Deadpool’s LGBTQ+ identity could be significantly increased.

    In conclusion, no one character is the perfect icon for an entire group, including the LGBTQ+ community, nor should they be. Queer MCU fans, and queer people in general, deserve to have major franchises better represent them and better represent reality. If the MCU were to fully embrace Deadpool’s LGBTQ+ identity, whether it is explicitly pansexual or described/defined in some other way, it could be one of the strongest moves Marvel Studios could make in terms of supporting the diversity of their characters and audiences.

    The character is already well-known to be queer; the Deadpool franchise creators, producers, and actors strongly support the move; and the character’s more formal cinematic coming out would have a ripple effect through numerous groups and demographics that would almost certainly strengthen the general MCU fanbase’s support, acceptance, and love for LGBTQ+ characters.