Marvel’s What If…? has boundless potential, exploring diverse multiverse scenarios where pivotal MCU events unfold with subtle variations. Despite season 1 falling short of fully realizing this potential, the Season 2 premiere, “What If… Nebula Joined the Nova Corps?” suggests a more promising trajectory for the series with its nine new episodes.
Rather than continuing previous storylines, the new season introduces a fresh reality where Nebula (voiced by Karen Gillan) becomes part of the Nova Corps. Set around the timeframe of 2014’s Guardians of the Galaxy, this episode offers an alternative perspective on Nebula’s redemption arc within the Guardians trilogy. While Glenn Close’s absence as Nova Prime is regrettable, the cast, including Peter Serafinowicz and Jude Law reprising their MCU roles, ensures a strong performance. Law’s portrayal of Yon-Rogg adds a gleefully sinister dimension to the narrative.
“What If… Nebula Joined the Nova Corps” unfolds as a cosmic MCU tale with a Blade Runner influence, casting Nebula as the Officer Deckard/Agent K figure. The cinematography and aesthetics of Xandar draw inspiration from Blade Runner, creating a compelling fusion. Nebula excels as a neo-noir protagonist, navigating a neon-soaked, morally ambiguous world committed to upholding the Corps’ virtues.
Visually and tonally, this episode stands out as one of the most distinctive and captivating in the What If…? series. The moody, cel-shading-esque aesthetic complements Xandar’s towering skyscrapers and rain-soaked alleyways. The hard-boiled narration from Nebula seamlessly aligns with the Blade Runner motif.
The episode effectively utilizes its supporting cast, offering a refreshing shift to Xandar’s setting. Exploring this world beyond the original Guardians film allows for a deeper understanding of characters like Nova Prime and the disconnection between the Nova Corps’ ideals and reality. Familiar faces appear in unexpected roles, adding depth to the MCU’s breadth.
However, the episode’s constrained runtime limits the storytelling. The mystery Nebula undertakes is straightforward and quickly unravelled, with 30 minutes insufficient to fully explore the plot. Despite plot holes in the resolution, the episode compensates with its mood, humour, and action.
“What If… Nebula Joined the Nova Corps?” doesn’t contribute significantly to the overarching narrative introduced in late season 1. The second season seems to follow the same format, reserving the focus on Jeffrey Wright’s Watcher for later episodes. Nevertheless, the rapid release schedule mitigates the wait for the series’ climax. The episode, with its strong standalone qualities, showcases the potential for What If…? to surpass the achievements of its first season with more episodes of this calibre.
