Marvel’s What If…? Season 3 Episode 8 Review - The Finale Could Have Been Better

The finale of What If...? Season 3 begins with a significant moment for the Watcher, as the Eminence introduces him to a challenging new responsibility. The dialogue reveals the enormity of this transformation, with the Eminence asserting that only a disciple of the Order of the Watchers is capable of withstanding such a burden. The Watcher wrestles with this revelation, questioning whether asking "what if" still holds meaning. His journey toward accepting his role takes shape as he acknowledges that to truly observe all realities, he must forsake his identity and become "no one." Satisfied with this epiphany, the Eminence declares he is ready to assume his role.

This introspective beginning quickly gives way to conflict. The Watcher is drawn into a heated debate with the Eminence, the Incarnate, and the Executioner. They criticize his choices, particularly his decision to reveal their secrets to mortals. While the Watcher defends his actions as miraculous, his counterparts dismiss them as reckless. They argue that detachment is fundamental to a Watcher's role, a belief Peggy openly challenges when she is brought before them. Her resistance to the idea that "no one is no one" directly confronts the Watcher's teachings, marking her as a perceived threat.

The tension escalates when Ultron and his allies suddenly intervene, shocking everyone. Amid the ensuing chaos, the Watcher and Byrdie flee toward a ship while Ultron confronts their opponents. During their escape, Byrdie shares an emotional moment with the Watcher, asking where they might find sanctuary. His somber reply, that there is no longer any “where to,” leaves her undeterred. She proposes a bold plan to navigate the multiverse's seams to elude the Eminence, shocking those around her. Despite the Watcher's doubts, Peggy takes charge, suggesting they seek refuge in Stephen Strange's universe, where his powers could help contain their enemies.

Peggy’s role brings emotional gravity to the episode. Earlier, she had challenged the Watcher's teachings, demonstrating her resolve and courage. Later, her ultimate sacrifice adds poignancy, even though it leads to an overly simplistic resolution. The Eminence’s abrupt shift in perspective and agreement to learn from Uatu feels rushed, undercutting the dramatic tension built throughout the episode.

Visually and emotionally, the episode delivers. The action sequences are dynamic, and the stakes are high. However, the pacing and the convenient resolutions detract from the overall impact. For a show grounded in infinite possibilities, the finale feels surprisingly predictable and formulaic, missing the imaginative twists that define the series’ strongest episodes.

Nonetheless, Episode 8 is not without its strengths. Themes of identity, sacrifice, and the burdens of omniscience are explored meaningfully, supported by compelling character arcs. The Watcher’s journey, though uneven, is bolstered by moments of genuine emotional resonance.

Ultimately, while the What If...? Season 3 finale is engaging and thought-provoking, it falls short of the standard set by earlier episodes. Though it offers moments worth experiencing, it struggles to deliver the groundbreaking conclusion fans might have hoped for.

Final Score- [5/10]