AGATHA ALL ALONG
In "Agatha All Along," set after WandaVision, Agatha Harkness finds herself powerless in Westview, New Jersey. A mysterious goth teenager helps her escape a reality-distorting spell, convincing her to lead him on the magical Witches’ Road to restore her abilities. They gather a diverse group of witches, including a potions expert, a divination specialist, a protector witch, and a local neighbor, as they embark on a journey filled with trials to reclaim their powers.
The first episode of Agatha All Along serves as a delightful homage to the whimsical charm of WandaVision, introducing Agatha Harkness in a nostalgic television program reminiscent of Mare of Easttown. Kathryn Hahn effortlessly captivates as a small-town detective, showcasing her remarkable range and wit. Her performance is so engaging that it left me wishing the entire series could center around this intriguing setup. As the plot unfolds, we learn that Agatha is trapped within this program, and her escape comes courtesy of a mysterious goth teen, played by Joe Locke. This dynamic introduction sets a solid foundation for the series, revealing just enough of the overarching plot to keep viewers hooked.
As the storyline progresses, it continues to surprise, especially regarding Agatha’s relationship with Rio, played to perfection by Aubrey Plaza. Their chemistry raises several intriguing questions that enhance the narrative complexity. Additionally, a surprise appearance by a character from WandaVision—who shall remain nameless to avoid spoilers—adds a layer of excitement, even if it leads to more unanswered questions about their connection to Agatha’s journey.
Episodes 7 and 8 stand out as particularly strong entries, offering a beautiful culmination to the epic exploration of witchcraft and character development, especially to Lilia who has become a favorite towards the end. Unfortunately, the finale in Episode 9 feels somewhat disjointed and less satisfying than one might have hoped. I found myself wishing for more flashbacks featuring Agatha, Rio, and Nicky throughout the series, as these glimpses into their pasts could have provided a richer context and deeper character understanding for Agatha and Rio.
Despite these criticisms, the acting across the board is truly exceptional. The casting choices are impeccable, and the performances elevate a solid storyline. However, the lingering unanswered questions and the uncertain future of Agatha leave the series feeling somewhat anticlimactic. It’s a compelling ride, but one that ultimately leaves us yearning for more closure and resolution in the end.