The Marvels (2023)

The Marvels rockets between the best and worst qualities of the MCU. The sequel to ‘Captain Marvel’ unites three of Marvel’s female superheroes in a film that both shines and struggles.

Long-delayed and awaited with trepidation by MCU fans, ‘The Marvels’ is far from the strongest entry in the franchise’s 33-film library. But it’s not unwatchably bad as rumored, either. There is some crisp action and moments that are inarguably funny and sweet, while other sequences will make one cringe and wonder who thought they were a good idea. Yet it does benefit from some solid performances, especially Iman Vellani in her big screen debut as Ms. Marvel – except that many more casual viewers may not even know who she is.