Marvel’s What If…? Season 2 Episode 8 Review - “Assembled in 1602” is a Time-Twisted Tempest

Prepare, ye faithful MCU pilgrims, for we embark on a journey unlike any other: a voyage through temporal tsunamis where Captain Carter dons a doublet instead of a shield, and Tony Stark tinkers with tesla coils in a Tudor workshop. Welcome to "Assembled in 1602," the eighth episode of What If Season 2, a Shakespearean spectacle spun with vibranium threads and sprinkled with anachronistic anachronisms.

Imagine stepping through a wormhole to find Lodon of yore draped in the neon glow of Stark Tech. This fantastical London becomes the stage for a time-tossed Avengers troupe, each grappling with their Elizabethan identities as hilariously as they grapple with temporal anomalies. Captain Carter, ever the stalwart leader, is thrust into the role of Queen Elizabeth's protector, her shield replaced by a rapier (though, fear not, the shield returns for a satisfyingly anachronistic moment in the final act). Hayley Atwell, with her signature steely gaze and regal posture, effortlessly navigates the shift from battlefield command to Elizabethan court intrigue, proving that Peggy Carter can rock a feathered ruff with the same aplomb as she wields a super soldier serum.

Meanwhile, Tony Stark, sporting a doublet that surprisingly complements his Stark-ness, has become a fugitive inventor, his genius rewired for steampunk marvels. He's the Bard of Birmingham, spitting sparks and sonnets in equal measure, his every line dripping with sardonic wit and self-assured swagger. Jeff Goldblum's signature eccentricity translates hilariously to this Renaissance setting, injecting the episode with a dose of pure Starkian chaos.

But "Assembled in 1602" isn't just a one-man show. It's a tapestry woven with diverse threads, each character's Elizabethan alter ego a delightful surprise. Black Widow, the master of disguise, becomes a cunning lady-in-waiting, whispering secrets in Queen Elizabeth's ear and navigating the treacherous waters of court politics. Sebastian Stan's Bucky Barnes, surprisingly chill for a time-tossed assassin, transforms into a charismatic outlaw with a penchant for Shakespearean soliloquies and rapier duels. His bromance with Captain Carter, forged in battlefields both ancient and modern, is a heartwarming anchor amidst the temporal chaos.

The episode is a feast for the eyes, a visual rollercoaster that seamlessly blends Elizabethan grandeur with Marvel's futuristic flair. Tower Bridge morphs into a steampunk wonder, cobbled streets pulsate with neon lights, and Shakespearean-inspired costumes mingle with high-tech gadgets. The production design deserves a standing ovation, creating a world that feels both authentically historical and vibrantly fantastical.

However, like a grand Elizabethan feast, "Assembled in 1602" suffers from occasional indigestion. The rapid-fire pace, eager to cram in as many comedic twists and Easter eggs as possible, leaves some characters feeling underdeveloped. Hawkeye, ever the sharp-shooting Avenger, feels relegated to a supporting role, his Elizabethan persona a missed opportunity for humor and action. Similarly, the Wasp shrunk to Shakespearean proportions, is sadly underutilized, and her potential for buzzing through Elizabethan high society is sadly unrealized.

And then there's the Red Skull, the episode's antagonist. Though given a suitably Shakespearean-esque monologue-loving makeover, he ultimately feels like a generic CGI villain, lacking the depth and menace of his comic book counterpart. His motivations, like the episode's pacing, are a bit rushed, leaving us wanting more from the clash of ideologies between Elizabethan absolutism and the Avengers' ideals of freedom and justice.

Despite these stumbles, "Assembled in 1602" ultimately soars on its sheer audacity and charm. The final battle, a clash of vibranium shields and Elizabethan cannons, is a glorious spectacle, proving that even Captain America's iconic shield can look badass alongside a feathered hat. The ending, while predictable, offers a satisfying resolution that reinforces the bonds forged between these time-tossed heroes.

Final Score- [6/10]