What If…? Season 3: Uneven Stories, Satisfying Arcs
What If…? Season 3 has a mix of intriguing and filler episodes but provides satisfying closures for key characters.
What If…? Season 3 is a show that’s hard to pin down. There are moments of brilliance where the potential of its premise shines through, but just as often, the episodes feel like filler – uninspired, dragging, and ultimately forgettable. This is especially frustrating because the concept of What If…? offers limitless possibilities for exploring alternate Marvel universes. Yet, instead of consistently delivering intriguing stories, the show often settles for narratives that lack the excitement and creativity I expected.
Missed Opportunities in Storytelling
The biggest letdown in What If…? Season 3 is the missed potential. There’s so much room to dive into wild, boundary-pushing stories within the Marvel Universe, yet many of the episodes feel like they’re playing it safe or spinning their wheels. I couldn’t help but think about the stories that could have been told – the kinds of “what if” scenarios that would really grab your attention. Instead, much of the season felt underwhelming.
That said, there are still some good moments scattered throughout the season. A few episodes manage to capture the intrigue and fun that made the first season such a standout. When the show focuses on compelling characters or bold concepts, it reminds you of its potential. But those moments feel few and far between.
Closure for Key Characters
One of the season’s saving graces is the way it handles characters like Captain Carter and Uatu the Watcher. Their arcs come full circle in satisfying ways, offering a sense of closure that feels earned. Captain Carter, in particular, gets a fitting end to her journey, which is a testament to the show’s ability to deliver when it leans into character-driven storytelling.
Uatu the Watcher, who has been a constant presence since the beginning of the series, also benefits from this approach. His arc is one of the few elements that feels consistent and deliberate across all three seasons. These moments of resolution stand out as some of the best in the series, providing a payoff that helps offset some of the weaker episodes.
Final Thoughts on What If…? Season 3
What If…? Season 3 is a mixed bag. While it delivers satisfying conclusions for characters like Captain Carter and Uatu, it struggles to maintain the intrigue and excitement that made the first season so engaging. The missed opportunities in storytelling weigh heavily on the season, with too many episodes feeling like filler instead of the dynamic, thought-provoking tales the premise promises.
For die-hard Marvel fans, there’s still enough here to enjoy, especially in the episodes that land well and the closure for key characters. But for casual viewers, this season might feel like a slog to get through. What If…? started strong in season one, but by season three, it feels like the series has lost some of its spark.
