Marvel's latest series, Wonder Man, has been praised by critics and fans as one of the most original and well-crafted projects in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The eight-episode limited series, now streaming on Disney+, stars Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Simon Williams, a Hollywood actor who gains superpowers and becomes the titular hero.
The series also marks the return of Ben Kingsley as Trevor Slattery, alongside Arian Moayed, X Mayo, and Zlatko Burić. Based on the comic book character introduced in 1964's The Avengers #9, Wonder Man has been lauded for its dynamic performances, particularly from Abdul-Mateen and Kingsley. One fan on X described the duo as 'an absolutely ICONIC duo' and called the series 'the most FRESH, INVENTIVE, and overall WELL-CRAFTED projects to grace the MCU yet.'
USA Today's Kelly Lawler praised the pair as 'a dynamic duo, if far sadder and more understated than say, Iron Man and Captain America,' though she noted the series 'struggles with tone and pacing.' However, other viewers were more enthusiastic, with one commenting that 'Wonder Man not only makes the MCU feel more realistic, but it also adds a surprising amount of depth to it.' Another added, 'It's so good. I'm actually surprised by how much I enjoyed this.'
The Guardian's Lucy Mangan gave the series a four-star review, highlighting 'the meticulous and moving examination of the growing friendship between the men' and 'a masterclass — several, really — on the art of acting.' The AV Club's Stephen Robinson called it 'worth watching' even if it remains the only Wonder Man story on screen, but added that it would be 'a wasted opportunity' given the potential of both the character and Abdul-Mateen.
Wonder Man marks Abdul-Mateen's Marvel debut; the actor is best known for playing Black Manta in DC's Extended Universe. The character previously appeared only in the animated series Avengers: Earth's Mightiest Heroes, voiced by Phil LaMarr.
