The premiere episode ended, and the credits rolled. I sat there, processing what I’d just seen, a strange mix of Hollywood satire and superhero origin story that shouldn’t work, but somehow, did. It was ambitious, messy, and deeply human—everything I didn’t expect from a Marvel show. The entire eight-episode first season is now streaming on Disney+, and here’s a breakdown of what resonated and what fell flat. Be warned, spoilers ahead.
Liked: Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Simon
Think about that actor friend—the one who always nails the audition, but somehow never gets the part. Yahya Abdul-Mateen II embodies that struggle perfectly. His portrayal of Simon Williams, a confident-seeming but internally fractured actor, forges an instant connection with the audience. His successes feel earned, and his failures sting, all thanks to Abdul-Mateen’s nuanced performance. Simon rarely feels at ease, a testament to the actor’s skill.
Liked: Mandarin Mentions
Sir Ben Kingsley returns as Trevor Slattery, marking his third appearance in the MCU. It’s difficult not to recall his role as the fake Mandarin from Iron Man 3 and his presence in Shang-Chi. What’s particularly enjoyable is how the show acknowledges Trevor’s past. Despite his desire to leave the Mandarin persona behind, it’s consistently brought up, creating a sense of realism and genuine embarrassment for the character.
Liked: The Acting Insight
Ever seen a behind-the-scenes reel of actors doing the most absurd things to land a role? Wonder Man nails that depiction. Simon and Trevor engage in frantic line rehearsals, offer pep talks, participate in ridiculous improv exercises, and navigate eccentric directors—all in the pursuit of a job. While some moments may be exaggerated, the show’s team clearly drew from real-world experiences, giving the show a layer of authenticity.
Didn’t Like: The Imbalance
Think of a rollercoaster that spends too much time climbing before a very quick drop. Wonder Man suffers from a similar pacing issue. The initial episodes prioritize character development, which is appreciated. However, the latter half feels rushed, with numerous storylines converging rapidly. While everything is resolved, the uneven pacing is noticeable, creating a sense that some plot threads might be left unresolved.
What is a bottle episode and why is it effective?
Liked: “Doorman”
Imagine a TV show willing to dedicate an entire episode to a seemingly tangential story. “Doorman,” the show’s fourth episode, does just that. It tells the story of DeMarr Davis (Byron Bowers), who discovers his ability to allow people to pass through him. His power leads to fame and fortune until a turning point that changes how Hollywood views powered individuals. This narrative is important to Simon’s journey and also broadens the show’s world in intriguing ways.
Liked: The Friendship
The show’s central relationship is key. Wonder Man hinges on the audience believing in the friendship between Simon and Trevor. Thanks to Abdul-Mateen and Kingsley, this connection is believable. Their shared pride and excitement are palpable, underscoring the show’s success in pairing these two characters. This friendship acts as the emotional anchor of the series.
Liked: The Betrayal
Because the friendship is so convincing, Trevor’s betrayal of Simon carries significant weight. The revelation that he’s been spying for the government feels jarring, adding a layer of compelling drama to the series. This plot point culminates in a particularly satisfying manner, especially at…
Liked: The Ending
Simon commits a major error. Trevor shoulders the blame. Simon achieves his desired stardom. Yet, he realizes that his bond with Trevor is paramount. The show closes with Simon leveraging his newfound fame to infiltrate a prison and free Trevor, providing a touching resolution to their story.
Didn’t Like: Not Enough Wonder Man
The Wonder Man movie within the show serves as a plot device, a means to an end for the characters involved. However, the show reveals intriguing details about the original cheesy film, leaving you wanting to see more of director Von Kovak’s (Zlatko Buric) reboot. While we only get glimpses, it would have been rewarding to witness a bit more of the actual production.
Liked: Joe Pantoliano
Think about actors who consistently elevate every project they’re in—Joe Pantoliano is one of those performers. It was great to see Joey Pants in Wonder Man, playing a heightened version of himself. It’s a fitting tribute to the star of The Matrix, The Sopranos, The Goonies, and Bad Boys.
Why is it important for Marvel shows to stand alone?
Liked: The Lack of MCU Connections
Had Simon and Trevor constantly referenced Spider-Man or Iron Man, Wonder Man would have lost some of its charm. By existing within the MCU but rarely acknowledging it, the show sidesteps the weight of that world. This allows it to focus on more personal narratives. Still…
Didn’t Like: The Lack of MCU Connections
Wouldn’t it have been nice to have a tiny Easter egg or two? While the show thrives on its independence, the recent deluge of forgettable Marvel content makes you wonder if a subtle tease might have been beneficial. The show made the right call, but one can’t help but ponder the possibilities. Wonder Man avoids becoming just another cog in the Marvel machine, and in doing so, finds its own unique voice. But does that independence ultimately serve the larger MCU, or does it create a disconnect that leaves fans wanting more?
Wonder Man is now streaming on Disney+.