Marvel

‘Ms. Marvel’ Episode 5 Review: A Starry Path Leads to an Emotionally Satisfying Final Chapter

Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and writer Fatimah Asghar give perhaps the greatest and most well-paced episode ever.

With just two episodes remaining, Ms. Marvel had the apparently unenviable chore of bringing it all to a climax without abandoning the tight character-focused narrative that has been by far the show’s finest component so far. With the lead-in to Episode 5, “Time and Again,” being genuine time travel, with Kamala (Iman Vellani) falling through a hole into Partition-era India, I was worried that this smaller, intimate drama was going to become unmanageably vast. Fortunately, I didn’t have to worry since Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and Fatimah Asghar gave possibly the strongest and best-paced episode to yet.

Rather than starting with Kamala, the episode opens with a newsreel-style opener in which a cheerful 1940s narrator explains the fundamentals of Partition and what it means for Indian nationals after the end of British control. The casualness with which he describes the British decision to partition off a piece of the land and establish a separate country for Muslim citizens while leaving the rest of the large nation secular is terrifying, as is the clinical, voyeuristic description of the following bloodshed and rioting.

Fortunately, the viewer is not supposed to understand Partition and what it means for Kamala’s family just via the lens of one British news show. With the newsreel stating that the root of the violence and unrest started five years previously, in 1942, the episode flashes back to that year, when Aisha (Mehwish Hayat) is fleeing a British soldier. She murders him and flees to a tiny town, where she meets Hasan (Fawad Khan), a young man who holds the locals captive with statements of the need to unify across religious boundaries — Hindu, Sikh, Muslim — and fight for their own independence at whatever cost.

When colonization is discussed in the media, whether from the viewpoint of the colonized or the colonizer, the ones performing the colonizing are often given disproportionate attention. We have a focus on the evil colonizer, whose tactics are more akin to a cartoon villain than the real-life horrors inflicted on most of the world, and then there is the sympathetic one, who really tries to understand the people whose home and way of life have been changed, but ultimately can’t do much about it except maybe help a person or two. Pocahontas from Disney springs to mind, but the pattern is clearly more prevalent than that.

It’s to Ms. Marvel’s credit — and evidence of why it’s so crucial to let individuals create their own tales — that the series doesn’t even attempt. The British troops that arrive to interrupt Hasan’s speech are unnamed. They are mostly faceless since the camera doesn’t stay long enough to get a good look at them. Because they aren’t what is important here. This is entirely Aisha and Hasan’s tale.

Following the encounter with the British, Hasan discovers Aisha napping beneath a tree in his rose garden, definitely on the run. He gives her food and a place to stay, and you’d be forgiven for forgetting this is a Marvel book rather than a romance story as he attempts to figure out who she is. He even tells her at one point that she reminds him of his favorite poetry and starts reciting it for her. He wins her over — who wouldn’t be? — and she eventually reveals him her name.

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Though they’re happy together, ultimately falling in love, marrying, and having a daughter, the ticking clock of Partition serves as a constant reminder of both the stakes and the audience’s knowledge of the sad result for the two of them. The show addresses the rising tensions and the small ways in which their lives have begun to change when a neighbor brings them food from the market, as the villagers — the same villagers who once agreed to put aside religious differences and fight for freedom together — will no longer sell their wares to them because they are a Muslim family. While Aisha is sure that they can make things work, the unexpected appearance of Najma (Nimra Bucha) compels her to reconsider.

Najma is anxious that they return home as quickly as possible, and she need Aisha and the bracelet to do so. Aisha, who seems to be escaping not just the British but also Najma, buys herself some time by claiming she has to fetch the bangle from its hiding spot, then packs what she and Hasan can carry and takes her family to the train station. While she first relies on her husband’s reasoning to explain why they should go, he soon understands there is more going on than she is letting on, and she ultimately gives him a complete explanation. Or as much as she can explain at a congested railway station with the final train to Karachi set to depart. She begs him to keep their daughter Sana safe, hands her the bracelet, and runs in the other way to meet Najma, who fatally stabs her.

At this moment, the two realities collide, and Kamala travels back in time. She comes just in time to see Aisha’s death and panics, assuming that her great-grandmother was the one who ultimately reunited Sana with her father. But, as I predicted last week, the famed “trail of stars” that lead Sana home was all along Kamala. With her mission accomplished and her grandma safe, Kamala returns to the present day in what seems to be a matter of seconds, saving the viewers from an episode-long fight to return Kamala to the current day.

She comes just as the Veil that separates her world from the ClanDestines’ opens, and she kills the first of Najma’s companions who attempts to get through. Najma is blinded by her ambition to get home and thinks she will survive the passage. When Kamala’s pleadings for assistance fail, she appeals to Najma’s feeling of family, pleading with her not to abandon her son Kamran (Rish Shah). Instead, Najma sacrifices herself to seal the Veil, then passes her power to her son at the last minute. The talents emerge quickly in him, and the episode concludes with him going to Bruno (Matt Lintz) for assistance.

It’s unclear where the series will go for the conclusion next week. The Veil has closed, Najma is gone, and Kamala’s mother Muneeba (Zenobia Shroff) has discovered that her daughter is the “Light Girl” heroine they saw in New Jersey. However, the fact that Ms. Marvel seems to be building to a conclusion that will be more of a wind-down than a succession of confrontations and explosions is nothing short of a relief. As previously said, Kamala and her family and community have always been the show’s stronger points. It’s the focus on who she is despite the heroic background, rather than it being the only thing that draws you in.

Not to mention the episode’s strong focus on love and understanding. The narrative often returns to a line of poetry read by Hasan, “What you seek is seeking you,” and its meaning manifests itself in a number of ways. It may be literal at times, such as when Sana and Hasan are seeking for each other at the railway station. However, towards the conclusion of the episode, when Kamala and Muneeba have a wonderful mother-daughter bonding moment, it’s evident that both of them were looking for the type of understanding that was being asked from them.

Naturally, with the finale of a superhero series coming up next week, I’m not expecting 45 minutes of hugs and conversation — especially since the final shot is of the Circle Q where Bruno works exploding — but if this is any indication, I’m hoping that the finale will both resolve the outstanding conflict and give plenty of time for all the character moments we’ve come to love. In addition, Kamala has spent the previous two episodes creating her famous Ms. Marvel outfit. Let’s hope she puts it together like an Avenger next week.

Marvel

Main Marvel Characters Who Use Magic as Their Main Power Source

In the Marvel Universe, there are a number of characters who utilize magic as their primary power source. From sorcerers and witches to gods and demons, these characters possess an array of magical abilities that make them some of the most powerful and fascinating beings in the Marvel Universe. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the main Marvel characters who use magic as their main power source.

Doctor Strange

Doctor Stephen Strange, also known as the Sorcerer Supreme, is perhaps the most well-known and powerful magic user in the Marvel Universe. After suffering a severe injury to his hands that ended his career as a surgeon, Strange traveled to the Himalayas to seek out the Ancient One, a powerful sorcerer who taught him the ways of magic. Strange possesses a wide range of magical abilities, including the ability to cast spells, create magical shields, manipulate time and space, and even travel to other dimensions.

Wanda Maximoff (Scarlet Witch)

Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch, is a mutant with the ability to manipulate reality and cast spells. Her powers stem from a combination of her mutant abilities and her connection to the mystical energies of the universe. Scarlet Witch’s powers include reality warping, energy projection, and the ability to manipulate probability. She is also able to cast spells that can alter the physical world around her.

Loki

Loki, the God of Mischief, is a powerful magic user with a long and complicated history in the Marvel Universe. As a member of the Asgardian race, Loki possesses an array of magical abilities, including shape-shifting, illusion casting, and the ability to manipulate energy. He is also a master of manipulation and trickery, often using his wit and charm to get what he wants.

Brother Voodoo

Jericho Drumm, also known as Brother Voodoo, is a Haitian houngan (voodoo priest) who possesses an array of mystical powers. He is able to communicate with spirits and calls upon the powers of the Loa (spirits of Haitian Voodoo) to cast spells and perform feats of magic. Brother Voodoo is also a skilled fighter, often using his martial arts skills in conjunction with his magic to defeat his enemies.

Dormammu

Dormammu is a powerful interdimensional entity that rules over the Dark Dimension. He possesses vast magical powers, including the ability to manipulate reality and create illusions. Dormammu is also able to possess other beings and control them, and he has a vast army of demons at his disposal. He is a formidable foe to any hero who dares to cross his path.

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Magik

Illyana Rasputin, also known as Magik, is a mutant with the ability to teleport through time and space. She is also a sorceress with the ability to cast spells and manipulate magical energies. Magik’s powers stem from her connection to the mystical realm of Limbo, which she rules over as its sorceress supreme. She is also skilled in combat, often using her sword and martial arts skills to defeat her enemies.

Baron Mordo

Karl Mordo, also known as Baron Mordo, is a powerful sorcerer and long-time enemy of Doctor Strange. Like Strange, Mordo was trained by the Ancient One in the ways of magic, but he chose to use his powers for evil. Mordo possesses a wide range of magical abilities, including the ability to manipulate energy and create illusions. He is also skilled in hand-to-hand combat and is a formidable adversary.

Hela

Hela’s black power magic is derived from her connection to the realm of Hel, the Norse underworld. It grants her immense power, allowing her to control the dead, summon spirits, and manipulate reality itself. Her powers are fueled by death and destruction, making her one of the most dangerous villains in the Marvel Universe.

In conclusion, Marvel comics and the MCU are filled with characters who use magic as their primary power source. From Doctor Strange, Wanda Maximoff, and Loki to lesser-known characters like Brother Voodoo and Magik, these characters bring a unique and fascinating element to the Marvel Universe. Magic allows for a variety of storytelling possibilities, from alternate dimensions to time travel to even bringing characters back from the dead. The use of magic also adds a sense of mystery and wonder to the Marvel Universe, with its own set of rules and limitations. As the MCU continues to expand and evolve, we can expect to see even more magical characters and stories in the future.

Marvel

10 Hilarious Marvel Characters

If you’re a fan of Marvel comics, then you know that the universe is not just about superheroes and their epic battles against villains. It’s also about the humor that is woven into the storylines, characters, and dialogue. From wisecracking heroes to eccentric villains, Marvel has given us some incredibly hilarious characters over the years. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the funniest Marvel characters that will have you laughing out loud. These characters may not be the most powerful or the most popular, but they will definitely leave a lasting impression with their humor and comedic timing. So, if you’re ready for some comic relief, read on to discover the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe.

Marvel Comics has given us some of the most iconic superheroes and villains of all time, but it has also introduced us to some incredibly hilarious characters. From wisecracking heroes to eccentric villains, Marvel has a knack for bringing the funny. Here are 10 hilarious Marvel characters that will make you laugh out loud.

Deadpool

Deadpool, also known as Wade Wilson, is undoubtedly one of the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. He’s a mercenary with a twisted sense of humor, and he never takes anything too seriously. His wit and sarcasm make him an incredibly entertaining character to read, and his fourth-wall-breaking abilities only add to his comedic value.

Spider-Man

Spider-Man, aka Peter Parker, is known for his quick quips and one-liners. He’s a classic wise-cracking superhero who uses humor to disarm his enemies and lighten the mood. His relatable personality and funny comebacks make him a fan favorite and a staple of Marvel comics.

Rocket Raccoon

Rocket Raccoon may be small, but his personality is anything but. This foul-mouthed, gun-toting raccoon is always ready with a snarky comment and a clever insult. His sarcasm and wit make him one of the most entertaining members of the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Groot

Groot, Rocket Raccoon’s sidekick, is a tree-like alien who only knows how to say “I am Groot.” Despite his limited vocabulary, Groot manages to be one of the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. His innocent charm and child-like personality make him endearing, and his comedic timing is spot on.

Ant-Man

Ant-Man, aka Scott Lang, is a superhero who can shrink down to the size of an ant. His ability to change his size is the source of many hilarious moments, as he uses it to sneak around undetected and pull off elaborate heists. His goofball personality and humorous antics make him one of Marvel’s most lovable heroes.

Loki

Loki, the god of mischief, is known for his mischievous personality and his ability to cause chaos wherever he goes. His cunning wit and manipulative ways make him a fascinating character, but it’s his sense of humor that makes him truly unforgettable. Loki’s dry wit and sarcastic comments always bring a smile to readers’ faces.

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Howard the Duck

Howard the Duck is a sarcastic, cigar-smoking anthropomorphic duck who was transported to Earth from his home planet. His dry wit and cynical outlook on life make him one of Marvel’s most unique and entertaining characters. Despite being a duck, Howard manages to be relatable and hilarious.

Squirrel Girl

Squirrel Girl, aka Doreen Green, is a superhero with the ability to communicate with squirrels. Her cheerful personality and quirky sense of humor make her one of the most endearing and funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. She’s known for taking down some of the most powerful villains in the Marvel Universe, often with the help of her squirrel sidekick, Tippy-Toe.

She-Hulk

She-Hulk, aka Jennifer Walters, is a lawyer and superhero who gains incredible strength and durability after receiving a blood transfusion from her cousin, Bruce Banner (aka the Hulk). She-Hulk is known for breaking the fourth wall and addressing readers directly, which adds to her comedic value. Her sassy personality and irreverent humor make her one of Marvel’s most entertaining heroes.

MODOK

MODOK, aka Mental Organism Designed Only for Killing, is a villain with a giant head and a tiny body. He’s one of the funniest Marvel villains, thanks to his ridiculous appearance and his propensity to monologue. MODOK’s delusions of grandeur and over-the-top villainy make him an absurd and hilarious character. His appearance alone is enough to make readers laugh, but his outlandish schemes and bizarre personality cement his status as one of Marvel’s funniest villains.

In conclusion, Marvel Comics has no shortage of hilarious characters. From the wisecracking heroes to the eccentric villains, these characters add a lighthearted touch to the often intense and action-packed world of superhero comics. Whether it’s Deadpool’s twisted humor or Groot’s innocent charm, these characters are sure to make you laugh out loud. So the next time you’re looking for a good laugh, pick up a Marvel comic and enjoy the comedic genius of these unforgettable characters.

Marvel

Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3: Where, Who, Why, and How

In the world of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise, Gamora, played by Zoe Saldaña, was presumed dead after being thrown off a cliff on the planet Vormir in Avengers: Infinity War. However, in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, she is back, albeit as an alternate version of herself. The rules of time travel in Avengers: Endgame created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Gamora still exists. This alternate version of Gamora, along with her sister Nebula, was kidnapped by Alternate Thanos and his loyal assassin daughters, and they followed the Avengers back to the main MCU timeline. Main Timeline Nebula killed her alternate self and convinced Alternate Gamora to fight for the good guys. Although Alternate Gamora is alive and well in the main timeline, she declines to join the Guardians as she has never met them or fallen in love with Star-Lord.

Gamora, played by Zoe Saldaña, is a pivotal character in the Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise, but she was thought to be dead after the events of Avengers: Infinity War. So, how is Gamora alive in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3? Let’s take a look at where she is, who she is, why she is alive, and how she is back.

Who is Gamora in the MCU?

Gamora, the deadliest woman in the galaxy, was introduced in Guardians of the Galaxy in 2014. She was adopted by Thanos after he conquered her planet and killed 50% of its population. Gamora defected from Thanos’ forces and teamed up with the Guardians to keep the Kree general Ronan the Accuser from obtaining the Power Stone. She also encouraged her sister Nebula to defect from Thanos as well.

Where is Gamora in the main MCU timeline?

Technically, Gamora is dead. Thanos abducted her and threw her off a cliff on the planet Vormir, as the sacrifice required to obtain the Soul Stone during the events of Avengers: Infinity War.

Gamora | Marvel Studios’ Legends

Why is Gamora alive again?

Zoe Saldaña is under contract to play Gamora, and her character is an essential part of the Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise. But in-universe, the rules of time travel in Avengers: Endgame created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Gamora still exists.

How is Gamora alive in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3?

During the time heist in Endgame, Nebula and War Machine traveled back in time to intercept the Power Stone before the Guardians, Kree, or Thanos obtained it. However, they created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Thanos became aware that there was a timeline in which he gathered all the Infinity Stones and snapped half of the universe dead, which caused the Avengers to time-travel to collect the Infinity Stones. After kidnapping the main timeline Nebula, Alternate Thanos and his loyal assassin daughters, Alternate Gamora and Nebula, followed them back to the main MCU timeline. Main Timeline Nebula killed her alternate self and convinced Alternate Gamora to fight for the good guys. After Iron Man sacrificed himself to snap away all of “Thanos’ forces,” Alternate Gamora remained in the main MCU timeline but declined to join up with the Guardians, having never met them or fallen in love with Star-Lord.

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In conclusion, while we don’t know what that means for Alternate Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, we know she is in it.

It will be interesting to see how Alternate Gamora’s storyline unfolds in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Given her unique perspective and experiences, there are endless possibilities for where her character arc could go. Perhaps she will struggle to adapt to the new timeline, or maybe she will become a pivotal player in the battle against the villainous Adam Warlock.

Whatever the case may be, fans are eagerly anticipating the release of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and the opportunity to see how Alternate Gamora fits into the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe. With the film set to be directed by James Gunn and featuring a star-studded cast, it is sure to be a thrilling and emotional ride for both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.