The promotional material for Disney+’s upcoming miniseries “Wonder Man” originally hinted at a meta commentary on both Hollywood and the superhero genre, possibly aiming to embrace self-deprecation ahead of the expected critiques from shows like Apple TV’s “The Studio” or HBO’s “The Franchise.” However, viewers may want to temper these expectations. Contrary to the idea of a satirical take on the entertainment industry, “Wonder Man” largely prioritizes character exploration over industry mockery.
The series centers around Simon Williams, portrayed by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, an aspiring actor who possesses potent superpowers yet remains an unremarkable figure in the superhero landscape. Unlike typical superhero narratives, Simon’s story is less about battling villains and more about navigating the world with a close friend, the faux “Mandarin” Trevor Slattery, played by Ben Kingsley. Their camaraderie is established at a screening of “Midnight Cowboy” and offers a buddy film dynamic rather than the standard action adventure.
While the initial episodes may feel slow as they delve into Simon’s challenges between auditions, the depth of his character compensates for this pacing. His obsessive drive to embody various roles, coupled with the necessity of controlling his powers, introduces an intriguing layer to his character. Trevor provides an acting mentor dynamic that adds a rich layer to their interactions, reinforcing the overall theme of personal growth in a competitive industry.
“Wonder Man” creatively ventures into unexpected territories in its narrative flow. One standout episode, “Doorman,” features a separate storyline about a night club doorman who acquires superhero abilities in a bizarre twist. This self-contained tale, shot in black and white, showcases the series’ willingness to explore different storytelling styles, reminiscent of the innovative approaches seen in shows like “Atlanta” and “Master of None.”
As the series progresses, it consistently eschews typical MCU conventions, maintaining a character-driven focus until its conclusion. While one plot twist in the finale may challenge the series’ realism and could detract from a sharper satire, the overall conclusion leaves viewers with a sense of excitement.
All eight episodes of “Wonder Man” are set to stream on Disney+ starting January 27, offering a unique addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe that prioritizes character over cliché and provides a fresh perspective on the superhero story.