As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of all things spooky and Marvel, I must say that these two offerings from the House of Ideas are nothing short of a delightful treat for Halloween enthusiasts like myself!
This Halloween season, folks are searching for something eerie to enjoy. Whether it’s setting the mood while putting up decorations and carving pumpkins, or a cozy late-night viewing with popcorn and soda, people tend to opt for the more frightening movies and shows. Although the Marvel Cinematic Universe is usually considered family-friendly (or as family-friendly as PG-13 allows), its universe has expanded into some supernatural realms. In this expansive world full of superheroes that safeguard it, there are also nighttime dwellers like werewolves, zombies, witches, and demons lurking around.
As a passionate cinephile, I can’t help but appreciate how Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has honored its origins by delving into the terrifying realms of horror classics. Prior to Stan Lee and Jack Kirby’s groundbreaking work with The Fantastic Four that revolutionized Marvel Comics, it was renowned for churning out monster and horror comics. It’s only fitting that the MCU has stayed true to these roots by incorporating elements from timeless horror narratives into their visual style and overall atmosphere while also breathing fresh life into traditional storytelling tropes in the world’s leading film and television franchise.
For those who enjoy the Marvel Cinematic Universe with a hint of Halloween spirit, here are nine chilling MCU entries that strike an ideal balance between thrill and accessibility for younger audiences, steering clear of the intense gore common in slasher films or the unnerving terror typically found on Shudder. Instead, they offer a spooky ambiance and themes that cater to a broader audience.
9 The Incredible Hulk (2008)
At first glance, The Incredible Hulk appears to be a typical superhero tale. However, its foundation in science fiction and horror-style monstrosity is evident. This film follows the journey of Bruce Banner (played by Edward Norton), who finds himself pursued by the US government, headed by Thaddeus “Thunderbolt” Ross (William Hurt). In his quest for a cure to the monster residing within him, Banner seeks assistance from Betty (Liv Tyler), who is not only his ex-girlfriend but also the daughter of Ross.
Simultaneously, soldier Emil Blonsky (Tim Roth) participates in an experiment aimed at giving him the ability to fight the Hulk. This transformation eventually turns him into The Abomination, leading to a clash of monsters right in the heart of Harlem. Consequently, the Hulk is compelled to act as a hero.
The Incredible Hulk Returns the Heroes to His Sci-Fi Horror Roots
The character of The Hulk was significantly influenced by the novels “Frankenstein” and “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde”, as well as their film adaptations. In the 1960s, Stan Lee used these works as a source of inspiration to develop The Hulk, which later became the character we know from “The Incredible Hulk”.
Initially, the scene portrays the Hulk’s transformation shrouded in darkness. As panic ensues among the crowd, they flee frantically upon witnessing the colossal, green-hued beast assaulting them, taking down individuals sequentially. Despite occasional glimpses and close-ups of The Hulk throughout the scene, his iconic green color is largely concealed by shadows, giving him a more grey appearance reminiscent of his early comic book depictions.
Despite viewers already being familiar with the Hulk, the movie still manages to create intrigue through its exploration of the grotesque metamorphosis of Banner into the Hulk, likening it to a science fiction rendition of the werewolf transformation in “An American Werewolf in London”. The film “The Incredible Hulk” distinguishes itself within the Marvel Cinematic Universe Phase 1 by blending sci-fi and classic B-movie monster horror from the 1950s.
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8 Doctor Strange (2016)
In the realm of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), Doctor Strange marked their initial exploration into the supernatural realms. This movie narrates the genesis of Stephen Strange, portrayed by Benedict Cumberbatch, whose life takes a drastic turn following a car accident that leaves his hands severely injured. In search of healing, he discovers the mystic arts and ultimately becomes embroiled in a battle to protect Earth from an imminent interdimensional peril. Although Doctor Strange‘s subsequent installment would delve deeper into the horror elements associated with the character, the first film offers a taste of those darker undertones.
Testing the Supernatural Waters
As a movie enthusiast, I must say that the moment when The Ancient One (played by Tilda Swinton) unveiled the reality of magic to Stephen Strange, taking him on a mind-bending journey through the multiverse, certainly evoked the psychedelic vibes of the 1960s comics. However, it wasn’t just about the trippy visuals; there were subtle hints of the horrors lurking ahead. From dimensions where Strange’s own hands seemed to consume him, to the terrifying Dark Dimension, this movie was truly a spooky, supernatural introduction for younger viewers.
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7 Moon Knight (2022)
Moon Knight explores the lives of two distinct personas, Marc Spector and Steven Grant, portrayed by Oscar Isaac, a museum worker in London and an adventurer respectively. The peaceful life of Steven Grant is disrupted when he’s compelled to transform into Moon Knight, the embodiment of the Egyptian moon god Khonshu. As both characters become entangled, they find themselves embroiled in a struggle against Arthur Harrow, a fervent believer, who seeks to unleash Ammit, the Egyptian goddess of justice and retribution, to pass judgment on the world for its impending sins.
Action Adventure Psychological Horror
Moon Knight is a blend of action-adventures that emulate horror elements, similar to 1999’s The Mummy, and psychological horror thrillers like Black Swan from 2010. The character’s bandaged attire evokes an image of a mummy, while he grapples with numerous supernatural adversaries. Episodes 1, 4, and 5 emphasize the terrifying physical aspects of Moon Knight, leaving viewers debating whether they are witnessing a genuine superhero series or if the entire show is a deception. Moon Knight explores gods, monsters, and the profound influence of human consciousness.
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6 “What If… Doctor Strange Lost His Heart Instead of His Hands?” (2021)
The Disney+ series “What If…?” delves into alternate tales within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, presenting scenarios that might have unfolded differently. It playfully blends tones and characters, such as the humorous episode titled “What If…Happy Hogan Saved Christmas” or depicting how characters could have had a more favorable life path in other realities, like “What If Hela Found the Ten Rings,” where the Goddess of Death from Thor: Ragnarok received redemption and formed an alliance with Wenwu from Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.
In the fictional scenario titled “‘If Only… Doctor Strange Had Lost His Heart Instead,’“, this storyline delves into the alternate outcomes from the 2016 film Doctor Strange. Here, we imagine a different timeline where Christine Palmer (portrayed by Rachel McAdams) accompanied Stephen Strange to the gala and unfortunately lost her life in the car crash instead of his hands being injured.
The Bleakest Marvel Ending
In addition to witnessing Doctor Strange devour countless demons and monsters in order to gain power that eventually earns him the title of Strange Supreme, it is also shown that Strange Supreme kills and assimilates a heroic variant of Doctor Strange. Ultimately, his actions prove futile as he becomes a monster, for by saving Christine, he annihilates his own reality, leaving him as the sole inhabitant of a world that no longer exists.
In this scenario, let’s rephrase: “Imagine if…Doctor Strange Lost His Heart Instead of His Hands” was the fourth episode in the series What If…?. The third episode, titled “What If…Earth Lost Its Mightiest Heroes,” had a more optimistic conclusion. Contrasting with it, this new episode takes a darker turn, offering a heart-wrenching ending reminiscent of the somber finales commonly seen in classic Twilight Zone episodes.
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5 WandaVision (2021)
As a captivated movie reviewer, I’d say that WandaVision was the undeniable television phenomenon of 2021, marking the long-awaited return of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) following an eighteen-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the entire Phase 4 lineup. Initially, it seems like a quaint sitcom featuring Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) and Vision (Paul Bettany), but as the show progresses, the perfect facade of the sitcom begins to unravel, revealing something far more chilling. Characters within the series start to question the bizarre events unfolding around them, leaving us intrigued about the true nature of their reality.
In the style of David Lynch, there’s an unsettling air about these suburban neighborhoods, concealing a deep, shadowy mystery. The narrative gradually morphs into a typical Marvel action finale, yet it delves deeper into the realm of witchcraft and supernatural elements, aspects further explored in two subsequent entries on this list.
The MCU Draws From David Lynch
In the premiere of WandaVision, it quickly becomes evident that something strange is unfolding, as the television-like world that dominates the episode disintegrates when a man starts choking on his food, and his wife oddly smiles and requests Wanda to halt whatever’s happening. The situation is unsettling, and with each subsequent episode, the enigma surrounding Westview deepens, and the artificial sitcom environment gradually crumbles.
Incorporate this with a fantastic Halloween episode featuring Wanda and Vision donning their 1960s Marvel costumes that echo traditional Halloween-themed episodes from classic TV series. This makes WandaVision perfect viewing for the chilling season.
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4 Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)
The sequel to WandaVision, titled Doctor Strange in the Multiverse, is often referred to as Marvel’s first “horror film.” However, this label became less emphasized when director Scott Derrickson departed the project. Nevertheless, the new director, Sam Raimi, has definitely infused the movie with a chilling atmosphere, given his background directing films like Evil Dead, Army of Darkness, and Drag Me to Hell. So, it’s no surprise that a film directed by such a horror master would include some spine-tingling scenes.
In the movie, it falls upon Doctor Strange to safeguard a teenage girl named America Chavez (played by Xochitl Gomez) from Wanda Maximoff, who has taken up the role of the Scarlet Witch. The Scarlet Witch seeks to extract America Chavez’s powers in order to traverse different universes and find her sons, Billy and Tommy. Along this multiverse odyssey, Doctor Strange is tasked with shielding this young girl.
The Horrors and Terrors of the Multiverse
In a chilling turn of events, Sam Raimi masterfully explores the eerie, haunting aspects of Marvel’s sorcerers. If the initial scene of a colossal, one-eyed monster from another dimension ravaging a city didn’t send shivers down your spine, then the Scarlet Witch’s rampage in Kamar-Taj will surely do so. Wanda’s meddling with people’s minds turns into a bloodbath, leaving corpses in her path. Sam Raimi effectively portrays the “witch” in the Scarlet Witch, transforming her into a horrifying slasher antagonist who mercilessly slaughters variants of some of Marvel’s mightiest heroes, including John Krasinski as Mr. Fantastic and Patrick Stewart as Professor X. The film’s climax features a zombified Doctor Strange using the souls of the damned as a cloak, making Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness a summer blockbuster but a must-watch for Halloween.
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3 “What If…Zombies” (2021)
Immediately after the reveal of “What If…?”, it was confirmed that an episode would focus on a zombie theme, drawing inspiration from the well-known Marvel Comics series known as “Marvel Zombies”.
This episode adheres to the standard structure of a zombie story. Post the occurrence of Ant-Man and the Wasp, an infection originating from the Quantum Realm spreads across Earth, leaving the world’s strongest heroes powerless. Bruce Banner lands on Earth, marking the beginning of Avengers: Infinity War, only to discover a world taken over by zombies. He then joins forces with a compact group of survivors, such as Spider-Man, The Winter Soldier, Wasp, and Happy Hogan (among others), to combat this new threat.
“What If…Zombies” is a playful tribute to popular zombie movies such as “Dawn of the Dead” and “28 Days Later.” It’s quite chilling to see characters like Captain America, Iron Man, and Scarlet Witch transformed into zombies. This episode is full of fun as it blends the traditional zombie concept with the universe of Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). It also shows how various characters meet their tragic ends in a brutal manner.
In this installment, we subtly introduced a precursor for an upcoming animated sequel titled “Marvel Zombies“. This new show is intended for mature audiences (TV-MA rating) and plans to incorporate characters from Phase 4, such as Shang-Chi, Ms. Marvel, Kate Bishop, and the Eternals.
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2 Agatha All Along (2024)
The latest Marvel Cinematic Universe production, fittingly released for Halloween, is titled “Agatha All Along“. This spin-off from “WandaVision” delves into the character of Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn), who enlists a group of witches to traverse the legendary Witch’s Path, aiming to regain the power that the Scarlet Witch had taken from her. A mysterious young man, known only as The Teen (Joe Locke), is also present in the storyline. Due to a protection spell, no one can learn anything personal about him. As of now, “Agatha All Along” continues airing on Disney+ and will end its season with a two-episode finale just before Halloween.
Must be the Season of the Witch
In every scene of “Agatha All Along,” there’s an eerie, Halloween-like atmosphere. It seems like Marvel is attempting to create their own spin on Disney’s beloved film, “Hocus Pocus.” The show focuses on witches as a way to differentiate witchcraft magic from the sorcerers in “Doctor Strange,” and delve into the portrayal of witches in pop culture. Just watching the end credits can put you in a festive Halloween spirit.
With Kathryn Hahn delivering an outstanding performance and a vibrant collection of fresh personalities, “Agatha All Along” takes heavy inspiration from horror movies while maintaining a lively, campy atmosphere that’s reminiscent of walking into a Spirit Halloween store at its most enjoyable.
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1 Werewolf by Night (2022)
Instead of just assuming that “Werewolf by Night” is the top choice, let’s consider it the ideal selection. Debuting as a Halloween special under the Marvel Special Presentation label, “Werewolf by Night” delivers an exhilarating blend for both horror enthusiasts and Marvel Comics aficionados alike. The special revolves around Jack Russell (Gael García Bernal), a man concealing his werewolf identity as he infiltrates a group of monster hunters during a significant ritual night, aiming to rescue his friend Ted, more commonly recognized as The Man-Thing. As the story unfolds, Jack partners with Elsa Bloodstone (Laura Donnelly), the daughter of a renowned monster hunter, to save Ted. However, circumstances compel Jack to transform into his werewolf form and display both his heroic and monstrous aspects.
Marvel’s Monsters Take the Spotlight
Werewolf by Night” stands out distinctively within the Marvel Universe, featuring a captivating black-and-white style reminiscent of classic Universal monster films such as “The Wolfman” and “Frankenstein.” The following year’s color version further paid homage to Hammer horror classics like “The Curse of Frankenstein” and “Dracula,” with its dramatic lighting and vibrant colors. Additionally, being a television special allows it to become an annual tradition for fans and families to enjoy, much like “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” or the “Treehouse of Horror” episodes from “The Simpsons.
The showcase titled “Werewolf by Night” offered a thrilling glimpse into the hidden supernatural realms of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, teeming with creatures lurking in the shadows of our beloved superheroes. This captivating production has earned its place as an annual Halloween must-see and the most chilling addition to the MCU. Here’s hoping that we will get to see “Werewolf by Night”, Elsa Bloodstone, and Man-Thing back in the Marvel Cinematic Universe soon.
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2024-10-06 21:35