Nia DaCosta’s recent installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), “The Marvels,” is a cinematic journey that embodies both the beauty and challenges of an expansive interconnected narrative. For those immersed in the MCU, having devoted over 100 hours to its intricacies, the film is a testament to the delicate balance between homage and overwhelming complexity.

“The Marvels” unveils moments of brilliance at its core, where originality and charm shine independently of encyclopedic Marvel knowledge. Iman Vellani and Teyonah Parris deliver captivating performances, complemented by dynamic action and spirited humor, creating enjoyable cinematic experiences.

Despite these high points, the film’s execution feels scattered and choppy, leaving audiences yearning for a more cohesive storyline. With a runtime of 105 minutes, making it the shortest MCU film to date, questions arise about whether brevity serves the narrative or if there’s untapped potential in unreleased material.

Viewers are thrust into a complex web of references, especially drawing on Marvel TV shows like “WandaVision,” “Ms. Marvel,” and “Secret Invasion.” This reliance risks making the film feel like homework for those less versed in the MCU’s intricate lore.

“The Marvels” follows the journeys of Carol Danvers (Brie Larson) in space, Monica (Teyonah Parris) working for S.A.B.E.R., and the emerging hero Ms. Marvel, Kamala Khan (Iman Vellani). Entangled in a cosmic conflict involving a “quantum band” and a “Universal Weapon,” the resulting power-swapping dynamic adds amusing and original action sequences to an otherwise perplexing narrative.

Zawe Ashton’s portrayal of the primary antagonist, Dar-Benn, follows the pattern of forgettable Marvel villains, lacking depth and clear motivations. The film’s relatively short runtime leaves audiences wanting a more comprehensive exploration of characters and plotlines.

“The Marvels” prompts reflection on whether the MCU’s commitment to serialized storytelling hampers individual films from standing on their own. While the film introduces fresh elements, Vellani and Parris injecting charisma into their roles, it struggles to break free from the established Marvel formula.

In conclusion, “The Marvels” teases viewers with glimpses of potential while highlighting the challenges confronting the MCU. The need for a total reset and a shift towards embracing new characters and narratives becomes apparent. The film earns a grade of C-, indicating a critical juncture for Marvel as it navigates the future of its cinematic universe.