Marvel’s What If…? continues its tradition of exploring alternate realities with an episode that blends absurdity, chaos, and heartwarming moments.
“What If… Howard the Duck Got Hitched?” delivers an entertaining yet overly chaotic story about the trials of new parenthood, layered with intergalactic hijinks and multiversal threats.
The episode opens on a tender note, introducing Howard the Duck (voiced by Seth Green) and Darcy Lewis (Kat Dennings) as proud new parents.
Their joy is short-lived as the Watcher (Jeffrey Wright) ominously hints at their baby’s extraordinary importance.
What follows is a whirlwind of encounters, as every cosmic force imaginable—from the Grandmaster to Dormammu—competes to control the mysterious egg that houses their offspring.
The premise is refreshingly unique, but the sheer number of subplots and characters makes it difficult to follow.
The writing shines in quieter moments, such as Howard and Darcy’s lullaby rendition of “I Was Made for Lovin’ You,” which offers a glimpse into their deep love for their unborn child.
These emotional beats keep the narrative grounded amidst the over-the-top chaos.
The dynamic voice performances, especially Dennings’ sassy yet loving Darcy and Green’s exasperated Howard, add charm and humour.
Visually, the episode impresses with vibrant animation that captures the grandeur of cosmic locales like Knowhere and Jotunheim.
The action sequences are frenetic, though the constant interruptions by new characters and plot twists diminish their impact.
The showdown at Jotunheim, featuring cameos from Zeus, Thanos, and a host of other Marvel entities, feels particularly excessive and dilutes the tension.
Ultimately, the episode’s saving grace is its heartwarming conclusion. Despite their numerous misadventures, Howard and Darcy prove their worth as parents, culminating in a beautiful moment where their baby girl, Byrdie, hatches and showcases her divine power.
The resolution ties the chaos together, delivering a message of parental love and resilience.
Verdict:
This episode of What If…? is a mixed bag—packed with humour, heartfelt moments, and imaginative scenarios, but burdened by an overcrowded narrative.
While its charm and ambition are commendable, a more focused approach would have elevated it from enjoyable to exceptional. Fans of the series will appreciate its quirky take on the Marvel universe, though newcomers might find the episode overwhelming.
Rating: 3.5/5