Marvel Seems to Have Just Released Its Best TV Show – It's Perfect for Fans of 'The Studio'

Amidst a growing fatigue with formulaic plots and an overabundance of action in its universe, Marvel has made an unexpected and highly successful move.

The miniseries Wonder Man is a bold and deliberate departure from the norm – it feels more like a heartfelt and witty tragicomedy about Hollywood with only tangential references to superpowers.

What Is 'Wonder Man' About?

The plot revolves around Simon Williams, a struggling actor with superpowers who is forced to hide them. In this world, filming people with superpowers is prohibited, which puts an end to his career.

His life changes after he meets Trevor Slattery, an aging actor obsessed with remaking the classic superhero film Wonder Man. Slattery sees Simon as the perfect candidate for the lead role and becomes his agent and mentor.

However, their plans are thwarted by agents of the Department of Damage Control, who hunt illegal superhumans.

'Wonder Man' Is Not Your Typical Marvel TV Series – It's Closer to 'The Studio'

Anyone expecting a project filled with large-scale fights and special effects should adjust their expectations. Wonder Man is, first and foremost, a story about acting, dreams, and friendship, generously seasoned with a love of cinema.

Superheroics take a backseat, serving more as a metaphor for inner talent. The series immerses viewers in Hollywood's behind-the-scenes world, complete with endless auditions, screenings, cynical producers, and cinephile chatter.

In this respect, it evokes direct associations with the recent The Studio, albeit presented in a lighter, comedic package.

'Wonder Man's Main Characters Are Extremely Charming and Well-Written

Yahya Abdul-Mateen II delivers a sincere and touching portrayal of Simon, a man torn between his fear of being discovered and his desire to realize his gift.

However, the true revelation is Ben Kingsley as Trevor Slattery. Kingsley's Slattery is a figure who is simultaneously comic and tragic – he lives with memories of past glory and adventurous plans.

The chemistry between Williams and Slattery, two losers from different generations, is vibrant and heartfelt. Their unlikely friendship, built on mutual benefit and blossoming into something more, becomes the heart of the series and one of the best relationships in the MCU in recent years.

Thanks to this duo, the lack of a global villain or large-scale threat doesn't feel like a drawback – the characters' personal drama and career twists are far more captivating.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Wonder Man'?

• Wonder Man has 89% from both critics and viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the series has a score of 7.6/10.

Where to Watch 'Wonder Man'?

Wonder Man is available to stream on Disney+.