Cinema power has done it again. Marvel starts its 2026 season with an original limited series starring Yahya Abdul-Mateen II & Ben Kingsley. Unlike what the public is used to with the studio, this TV show doesn’t have any big glorious Super Hero and doesn’t rely on CGI power. As a matter of fact it does the opposite, by presenting a protagonist who tries to stay as far as possible from the concept of Superhero and the episodes that use as little CGI as needed. The story does not require any past knowledge about the MCU, Simon, an inspiring actor, learns that the 80’s super hero movie WONDER MAN will get a modern remake. He thinks this is the opportunity of his life and that it could be his breakout movie, therefore he will redouble his effort to get the part and he will get the help of his friend and fellow actor Trevor, who have a lot of experience. However, these two friends both hide secrets from each other, secrets related to their mysterious past.
It tries something new that you would not think Marvel could produce, it talks about heavy themes like art, power, friendship and dream achievement.
In consequence, the greatest strength of the show is the originality of its story. It tries something new that you would not think Marvel could produce, it talks about heavy themes like art, power, friendship and dream achievement. Therefore it is easier to relate to the characters here than in an average Science Fiction series. Artistically there also has been evolution, there is even a standalone episode, all in black and white with the special appearance of Josh Gad. Regarding the acting, it was similar to other Marvel projects in the way that it always has a part of comedy no matter what the situation is, though it felt more appropriate here.
This constant evolution in Marvel shows is the fruit of many years of different artistic attempts. After the magic of the first MCU series Wandavision (2021) we were entitled to the cold drama of The Falcon & The Winter Soldier (2021), the complex science fiction lore of Loki (2021), the adventure spirit of Moon Knight (2022), the way too light ton of She Hulk (2022) or whatever Ironheart (2025) was trying to do and others. Unlike movies, Marvel TV Shows have their own identity, which allow many types of different stories, but which are not all compatible with the MCU itself. Way before Wandavision there was the Netflix Marvel series universe where 5 different TV shows (Daredevil (2015), Jessica Jones (2015), Luke Cage (2016), Iron Fist (2016), Punisher (2017)) and The Defenders (2017) were connected in a very dark atmosphere. Even though some viewers keep great souvenirs of this period Marvel have definitely changed their strategy since. In this idea they have created in 2023 the label “Marvel Spotlight” that designed standalone series that does not require MCU knowledge, Wonder Man (2026) has received it.
In conclusion, Wonder Man has the immense merit of giving a breath of originality to the greatest cinematic universe. A breath which also marks a new type of vision in Marvel Television, and maybe also a change for its future.