Agatha All Along

Three years after WandaVision kickstarted Disney’s stint of Marvel TV shows, Katheryn Hahn returns as Agatha Harkness in Agatha All Along, a delightfully witchy outing that mixes comedy, mystery and elements of horror into an entertaining concoction. Led by a scene-stealing performance from Hahn, the opening two episodes boast a strong start for what could be Marvel’s most creative show yet.

Taking place after the events of WandaVision and Doctor Strange: Multiverse of Madness, the show opens with Agatha trapped in an alternate reality, stripped of her powers, and living life as a no-nonsense detective in a gritty crime drama. However, the illusion is broken when someone from her past (a fierce Aubrey Plaza) arrives and tries to kill her. With Agatha’s survival now on the line, her plan is to assemble a coven of witches to venture down the Witches’ Road, a fabled trail where the traveller’s greatest desires are said to be awarded to them at the end.

Hahn is once again marvellous as Agatha. She relishes every moment of her performance with darkly comedic glee, making every second she’s on-screen an absolute blast to watch. Joining her is Heartstopper’s Joe Locke as a mysterious teenager who also wants to claim the prize at the end of The Witches’ Road. Self-described as being Agatha’s biggest fan, his fanboyish obsession with her makes him the perfect pairing to her hilarious indifference towards him. Debra Jo Rupp likewise reprises her role from WandaVision, with her unflappable cheerful demeanour being another welcome addition to the series.

There’s also plenty of intrigue within the premiere episodes to ensnare viewers’ attention. In addition to building the mystery surrounding the legendary road, the show raises questions about the teenage companion’s identity and, more puzzlingly, why Agatha is unable to hear his name or any other personal details about him. It’s the kind of cryptic detail bound to kickstart an assortment of speculation and fan theories online until the truth is revealed.

When the coven is eventually brought together (and sing an incredibly catchy spell), the show ventures into horror territory as a menacing presence approaches that’s complete with appropriately creepy imagery. With the first two episodes leaving a strong impression, Agatha All Along is on its way to being the follow-up viewers have been waiting for.

Andrew Murray

Agatha All Along is released on Disney+ on 19^th September 2024.

Watch the trailer for Agatha All Along here: