As a seasoned detective with a knack for unraveling the most intricate mysteries, I find myself deeply intrigued by the enigmatic character of Agatha Harkness, played masterfully by the incredibly talented Kathryn Hahn. Her transformation from a seemingly benign neighbor to the cunning and powerful villainess in WandaVision was nothing short of mesmerizing.
[This story does not contain major spoilers for Agatha All Along.]
Kathryn Hahn’s entrance into the Marvel Universe was portrayed as a nosy 1950s neighbor to Wanda Maximoff and Vision in the series, ‘WandaVision’. Back then, I pointed out to Hahn that her character Agnes bore a resemblance to Milly Campbell, her past ’50s neighbor role in ‘Revolutionary Road’ starring Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio (2008). However, it was later revealed that Agnes was actually the disguise for a powerful witch named Agatha Harkness. The success of ‘WandaVision’ and Agatha’s catchy single, “Agatha All Along”, led to further exploration of her character in a spinoff series, which shares the same title as the song, ‘Agatha All Along‘.’
Produced by WandaVision’s creator Jac Schaeffer, last night’s double episode premiere deviates from the sitcom tribute format set by its predecessor. Instead, it delves into a crime drama reminiscent of Mare of Easttown, titled Agnes of Westview. As a result, Kathryn Hahn masterfully portrays a character similar to Mare Sheehan, played by Kate Winslet, offering a more deliberate homage than the unintentional resemblance between WandaVision and Revolutionary Road. (The initial teaser trailer for Agatha All Along offers a comprehensive sneak peek into Agnes of Westview.)
When ‘Mare of Easttown’ debuted, I couldn’t stop watching it and became completely captivated,” Hahn shares with The Hollywood Reporter. “Without a doubt, Agnes of Westview pays tribute to that type of series.
In a recent chat with THR, Hahn shares her surprising path to starring as a main character in a Marvel Studios production.
In our conversation about WandaVision a few years back, I noted that your performance as a neighbor in the 1950s echoed your work in Revolutionary Road. Given this, it didn’t surprise me to see you delving into Kate Winslet-like territory with Agnes of Westview. Since we know Agatha was deeply immersed in Mare of Easttown, did you also immerse yourself by binge-watching the series during preparation?
When Mare of Easttown premiered, I couldn’t resist binge-watching it and became completely hooked on the series. It resonated deeply with me, and I adore it immensely. Not only do I appreciate it, but so does its creator Jac Schaeffer, as it represents a captivating crime drama that centers around a powerful female protagonist with a complex history. There are certainly familiar patterns in this show, yet it manages to stand out. I’m also a big fan of Broadchurch and many other shows like it. Consequently, it was evident that the Mare of Easttown served as an affectionate tribute to this genre.
Jac confessed to me that she had missed considering this option. However, was there any discussion about Evan Peters on set since his WandaVision character, Ralph Bohner, might have portrayed a variant of his own Easttown character? (In the end, Aubrey Plaza’s character took the role of Peters’ Easttown character as the visiting detective.)
Wow, sounds exciting! I don’t seem to remember discussions specifically about that topic, yet there have been plenty of talks regarding him. He’s truly exceptional.
Given the opportunity, you transformed a typical general meeting into an essential character in the popular series “WandaVision” and now the star of your own show, “Agatha All Along.” Can you share how you’ve made sense of this extraordinary turn of events and its impact on your career so far?
Initially, I wouldn’t have envisioned this in my professional journey. It was an area I believed was beyond my reach. I simply didn’t expect to be involved. When I learned that she was a witch and that WandaVision represented uncharted territory for the MCU, marking a departure and breaking numerous conventions, I was absolutely thrilled. I was practically bursting with excitement. Given Agatha’s self-perception as the main character, it seemed perfectly fitting for me to assume that role in this alternate series. It felt oddly appropriate, and it’s only natural that she transitions from a solitary witch to one who, despite her reservations, requires a coven.
“Wow, I couldn’t believe it when I found myself dashing out in the premiere, chatting with my neighbor in nothing but my birthday suit! It was quite a laugh, and I must say, it was a thrill to be able to pull off such an unexpected moment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.”
Of course not! It was actually my concept. (I can’t help but chuckle.) We decided to dive right in on the very first or second day of filming. It seemed crucial to depict her at her absolute weakest point in that scene, as it carried significant impact.
Character wise, did you have any requests for Jac and her writers’ room?
Jac and I share a great deal of alignment regarding Agatha’s personality and characteristics. Frequently, it seemed as though I was embodying Jac Schaeffer, and expressing Agatha’s unique perspective on the world. This connection made me feel deeply linked with her.
Did it make you happy that you got the chance to fire a shot on Blondie Street for the very last time, just before Warner Bros. Ranch was demolished?
Agatha’s home was famously known as the “Bewitched” house, and amazingly, I had a chance to film right outside it. Regrettably, I had forgotten that they had demolished it, which is truly disappointing.
Well, congrats on Agatha All Along, and thank you for teaching me what a “jade egg” is. I had no idea what Agatha was talking about until my research took me to Goop.com.
(Chuckles.) Of course, you’re more than welcome! It seems there’s some debate regarding their safety, yet I’d rather avoid delving into that topic.
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Agatha All Along’s two-episode premiere is now streaming on Disney+.
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2024-09-19 16:25