Review | Ms. Marvel (Episode 3: Destined)

“This is another exciting and fun episode of Ms. Marvel that explores the source of her powers in a compelling way.”

It’s Wednesday so it is time for a new episode of Ms. Marvel. However, we are already half through the series. Which means there are only three episodes left. So let’s enjoy the ride!

ORIGINS

Iman Vellani as Ms. Marvel/Kamala Khan in Marvel Studios’ MS. MARVEL. Photo by Daniel McFadden. ©Marvel Studios 2022. All Rights Reserved.

After last week‘s surprised ending, this episode explores the origins of Kamala’s powers and who her grandmother really was. Yes, it is different from her comics origins. Nevertheless, this is so exciting! Indeed, it is not a re-hash of the story from the comics. So we rediscover the character. This is a compelling new take on the origins of the character. Her origins may be different, but this is the same Kamala Khan from the comics. And Iman Vellani brings so much to the character. She is a bright new star in the MCU.

This new origins story is a good fit for the MCU. It expands this universe while also blending with the South East Asian and Muslim culture. In fact, it draws elements from Marvel comics and also from Islamic mythology. The elements it uses from the comics are something I did not expect to see. It is a good surprise. Plus, when I think about it, it actually fits with the story. And it could have connections to the bigger picture.

WEDDING GONE WRONG

(L-R) Matt Lintz as Bruno and Iman Vellani as Ms. Marvel/Kamala Khan in Marvel Studios’ MS. MARVEL. Photo by Daniel McFadden. ©Marvel Studios 2022. All Rights Reserved.

Moreover, this episode features the wedding of Kamala’s brother. This part is so much fun. Actually, Ms. Marvel is the most fun the MCU has been in a while. This is definitely a refreshing change from the darker stories of Doctor Strange and Moon Knight. This is the power of Marvel Studios. They are able to create so many stories with different tones and genres.

Obviously, things do not go exactly as planned at this wedding. After all, it is the Marvel Cinematic Universe, there is always something happening. It brings a nice action sequence while establishing who are the opponents in this series.

Plus, just like in Spider-Man No Way Home, the DODC proves to be an annoying agency. They feel more like troubles rather than a damage control agency. Thus, it is double trouble for Kamala.

On a side note, pay attention during the wedding, you can see Ms. Marvel’s co-creator Ana Amanat.