Marvel’s What If…? Season 2 Episode 9 Review - Strange Supreme Went Bananas? A Multiversal Meltdown

"What If...?" has always been about exploring the infinite possibilities of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, twisting familiar narratives into mind-bending pretzels. Season 2 embraced this madness wholeheartedly, and the finale, "What If... Strange Supreme Intervened?", takes it to a whole new level.

After witnessing the destruction of countless universes, a corrupted Doctor Strange, dubbed "Strange Supreme," seeks to rewrite reality itself. He teams up with Captain Carter, pulling her from another timeline to help him stop an even more powerful villain: himself. Yes, you read that right. Multiversal shenanigans ensue, with reality warping like taffy, timelines colliding like bumper cars, and familiar faces returning in unexpected forms.

The episode is a sensory overload in the best way possible. The animation bursts with vibrant colors and mind-bending visuals, as buildings morph, planets shatter, and tentacled creatures brawl in interdimensional voids. It's a spectacle that's both visually stunning and narratively bonkers. However, beneath the surface of this cosmic chaos lies a surprisingly poignant exploration of grief, loss, and the lengths we'll go to save those we love. Strange Supreme, despite his descent into madness, is a tragic figure, haunted by the ghosts of his past. His desperation to alter reality is driven by a love for Christine Palmer, a love that transcends timelines and defies reason.

While the episode's ambition is commendable, it occasionally stumbles under its own weight. The rapid-fire plot throws characters and concepts at the audience like a cosmic confetti cannon, making it difficult to fully grasp the emotional stakes. Some character motivations feel rushed, particularly Captain Carter's sudden shift from a stoic soldier to Strange Supreme's accomplice. Additionally, the episode's reliance on fan service can feel a bit forced at times, with cameos and references winking at the audience rather than organically serving the narrative.

Despite its flaws, "What If... Strange Supreme Intervened?" is a thrilling and emotionally charged conclusion to Season 2. It's a reminder that even in the face of cosmic chaos and infinite possibilities, the human heart still yearns for connection, love, and redemption. It leaves you pondering the nature of existence, the fragility of reality, and the power of a single choice to rewrite the universe. Whether you're a die-hard Marvel fan or simply enjoy a good dose of animated mayhem, this episode is a wild ride you won't want to miss. Just be prepared to hold on tight, because things are about to get weird (and awesome) in the multiverse.

A chaotic, visually stunning, and surprisingly poignant finale that leaves you breathless and begging for more. While the plot stumbles at times, the emotional core and sheer audacity of the storytelling make it a must-watch for fans of the series and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as a whole. Just remember, with great multiverse power comes great narrative responsibility.

Final Score- [8/10]