When Marvel Studios announced a spin-off series for Agatha Harkness, the unexpected breakout star from WandaVision, fans were both thrilled and skeptical. Could a show focusing on a relatively obscure villain captivate audiences the same way the Marvel juggernaut had with its more traditional superhero fare? The answer, as delivered by Agatha: Darkhold Diaries, is a resounding (and cackling) “yes.” This review dives into the dark, twisted fun of Marvel’s latest venture, which returns Kathryn Hahn’s Agatha Harkness to the spotlight, blending humor, magic, and a dash of horror in ways both expected and delightfully surprising.
The Return of Agatha Harkness: A Cursed Delight
First, let’s get one thing straight: Agatha: Darkhold Diaries thrives because of Kathryn Hahn’s magnetic performance. From her very first scene in WandaVision, Hahn’s Agatha Harkness oozed charisma, wit, and a mischievous glint that made her both hilarious and menacing. Darkhold Diaries smartly picks up where WandaVision left off—Agatha, stripped of her powers and stuck in the domestic prison of Westview—but it doesn’t take long for the show to break the spell and send Agatha back on a quest for power. This isn’t just about Agatha regaining her magic; it’s about a journey of rediscovery, learning, and, of course, nefarious deeds.
Hahn continues to command every scene she’s in, channeling Agatha’s inherent contradictions: a centuries-old witch with both sinister motives and the comedic timing of a sitcom star. It’s a balancing act that could easily feel over-the-top, but Hahn ensures Agatha remains grounded, even when casting spells or manipulating everyone around her. This is particularly evident when she embarks on the “Witches’ Road,” a gauntlet of trials and challenges that gives us a glimpse into Agatha’s checkered past and current predicament.
The Plot: A Spellbound Adventure with a Twist
The core premise of Agatha: Darkhold Diaries revolves around the titular Darkhold, a magical tome that has played a central role in the MCU’s mystical lore. In this series, Agatha’s primary objective is to reclaim her lost powers, which means getting her hands on the Darkhold once again. But the plot, while straightforward, is filled with enough twists and turns to keep even the most dedicated Marvel fans guessing. With each episode, the show reveals new layers of Agatha’s backstory, further fleshing out a character who, until now, has been more of a delightful enigma.
A significant portion of the narrative focuses on Agatha’s interactions with her “unlikely allies,” including some familiar faces from WandaVision. The ensemble cast, which includes returning favorites like Debra Jo Rupp (Mrs. Hart) and David Payton (John Collins), provides a sense of continuity while introducing new characters who complicate Agatha’s plans. Aubrey Plaza’s portrayal of the witch Rio Vidal, in particular, stands out. Vidal is a rival to Agatha, and their dynamic—equal parts tension and dark humor—adds an extra layer of depth to the story. Plaza’s dry delivery is the perfect foil to Hahn’s more animated performance, and their scenes together crackle with dark energy.
The central conflict revolves around Agatha’s journey through the mystical Witches’ Road, a sort of magical obstacle course that tests her abilities and sanity. Along the way, she encounters not just magical adversaries but psychological challenges that force her to confront her own past deeds and misdeeds. The road is as much about introspection as it is about external power struggles, making the show more character-driven than the typical superhero fare.
The Tone: A Chaotic Mix of Horror and Humor
What truly sets Agatha: Darkhold Diaries apart is its tonal ambition. The show confidently weaves together elements of horror, dark comedy, and even gothic drama. Fans of WandaVision will be pleased to know that Darkhold Diaries retains some of the surreal, genre-bending sensibilities of its predecessor. There are moments of eerie quiet and unsettling tension, reminiscent of classic horror films, followed by laugh-out-loud gags that would feel right at home in a sitcom.
This blend works in large part because the show leans into Agatha’s inherent contradictions as a character. She’s a witch who revels in chaos and destruction, but she’s also someone who enjoys the mundane pleasures of life, like tormenting her neighbors or indulging in sarcastic banter. The writers have wisely given her plenty of opportunities to exercise her sharp tongue, resulting in a series that feels both deeply personal and unapologetically bizarre.
However, the horror elements aren’t to be underestimated. The show dips into some genuinely unsettling territory, especially as Agatha delves deeper into the darker magic of the Darkhold. The visual effects team deserves special mention for their work on the Witches’ Road sequences, which combine surrealist imagery with a palpable sense of dread. There are moments where the show flirts with becoming a full-on psychological thriller, which is a refreshing change of pace for the MCU.
Visuals and Style: Gothic Marvel at Its Best
Marvel’s production value is on full display here, with Agatha: Darkhold Diaries boasting some of the most visually arresting scenes in any MCU series to date. From the sprawling, mist-laden landscapes of the Witches’ Road to the haunting, claustrophobic interiors of cursed mansions, the show’s visual style is unmistakably gothic. Cinematographer Rachel Morrison (known for Black Panther) brings an atmospheric touch that complements the show’s darker themes.
Special effects are top-notch, particularly in the portrayal of magic. Marvel has honed its craft in depicting the mystical, and Darkhold Diaries is no exception. Spells feel tangible, with swirling runes and dark tendrils of energy that crackle with menace. One particular standout sequence involves Agatha conjuring a spell in a desperate attempt to regain her powers, only to be thwarted by an unexpected force. It’s a beautifully shot scene that perfectly captures the duality of magic—both seductive and dangerous.
Characters and Performances: A Standout Ensemble
While Kathryn Hahn is undoubtedly the star, the supporting cast in Agatha: Darkhold Diaries also shines. Aubrey Plaza, in particular, delivers a memorable performance as Rio Vidal, a witch with her own agenda. Plaza’s dry wit and deadpan humor provide the perfect counterbalance to Hahn’s more flamboyant portrayal of Agatha. The two share a rivalry that is both entertaining and complex, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the story.
Joe Locke, who plays Billy Kaplan (also known as Wiccan in the comics), is another highlight. His character serves as an unlikely ally to Agatha, and their evolving relationship provides some of the show’s most emotional moments. Locke brings a youthful energy to the role, which contrasts nicely with Agatha’s jaded worldview.
Patti LuPone’s portrayal of the ancient witch Lilia Calderu is another standout. LuPone imbues the character with a sense of gravitas, and her scenes with Hahn crackle with tension and mutual respect. There’s a sense that Lilia has seen it all, and she’s not particularly impressed by Agatha’s antics—at least, not at first.
Final Verdict: A Wickedly Fun Ride Through the Darkhold
Agatha: Darkhold Diaries is a worthy addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, offering a unique blend of horror, comedy, and character-driven drama. While it may not have the bombastic action sequences that some fans expect from Marvel properties, it more than makes up for it with its richly drawn characters, atmospheric visuals, and clever writing. Kathryn Hahn is, as always, a joy to watch, and the show’s supporting cast adds depth to what could have easily been a one-woman show.
In a landscape crowded with superhero stories, Darkhold Diaries stands out by embracing its weirder, darker side. Fans of WandaVision will find much to love here, while newcomers to the character of Agatha Harkness will be drawn in by the show’s wit and charm. Whether you’re here for the spells, the scares, or the sarcasm, Agatha: Darkhold Diaries delivers on all fronts.
FAQs
What is the premise of Agatha: Darkhold Diaries?
The show follows Agatha Harkness as she escapes the magical trap set by Wanda Maximoff and embarks on a journey to regain her lost powers through the dangerous Witches’ Road.
Is Agatha: Darkhold Diaries connected to WandaVision?
Yes, the show is a direct spin-off from WandaVision and continues Agatha’s storyline after the events of the series.
Who are some of the key characters in the series?
In addition to Kathryn Hahn as Agatha, the show features Aubrey Plaza as Rio Vidal, Joe Locke as Billy Kaplan, and Patti LuPone as Lilia Calderu.
Does the show focus on horror elements?
While it retains Marvel’s trademark humor, Darkhold Diaries leans into gothic horror with darker, unsettling scenes and a more eerie tone than traditional MCU fare.
Will Wanda Maximoff appear in Agatha: Darkhold Diaries?
Although fans speculate about her return, Elizabeth Olsen’s Wanda does not appear to beappear in the current storyline, the focus of Agatha: Darkhold Diaries remains on Agatha and her journey, though references to Wanda’s actions are likely woven into the narrative backdrop.
How does Agatha: Darkhold Diaries compare to other MCU shows?
The series takes a darker, more character-driven approach compared to action-heavy MCU shows. It balances gothic horror with humor, making it unique in its tone and style.
