Disney’s The Marvels, the sequel to 2019’s Captain Marvel, brings together Brie Larson’s Carol Danvers, Iman Vellani’s Ms. Marvel, and Teyonah Parris’ Monica Rambeau as they find themselves swapping with each other in their battle against the main villain, Zawe Ashton’s Dar-Benn. When the film’s trailer first dropped, the initial reaction, both online and personal, was lukewarm. It appeared to be more of the same in the saturated superhero genre, raising concerns about potential fatigue. However, as a devoted Marvel fan, I’m delighted to report that The Marvels managed to exceed my rather low expectations.

While The Marvels doesn’t necessarily break new ground in terms of its storyline, it excels in execution. The film manages to strike a balance between humour and heart, largely thanks to the strong performances by the cast, with Iman Vellani shining as a relatable and comically endearing character, reminiscent of Tom Holland’s Spider-Man in Captain America: Civil War.

One notable drawback of the film is the lack of a compelling villainous arc for Zawe Ashton’s Dar-Benn. Similar to The Flash, the world-ending scenario doesn’t feel significant enough to make the audience genuinely care. This is an area where Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 succeeds, as it sets up a compelling villain without resorting to the tired trope of global catastrophe.

Despite its evident flaws, including subpar CGI and an underdeveloped antagonist, The Marvels successfully delivers an engaging and enjoyable cinematic experience. However, potential viewers should manage their expectations accordingly. The Marvels may not reinvent the superhero genre, but it does provide a fun and entertaining time at the movies. So, if you plan to see it, go in with an open mind and the expectation of a good and familiar time.

Without giving away any spoilers, The Marvels feature a scene referencing a pivotal moment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s history. Plus, the post-credits scene alone makes the movie a must-watch.