The Most Underrated Marvel Characters from Movies and TV
While the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has brought many beloved superheroes to the forefront of popular culture, there are still numerous characters who deserve more recognition. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most underrated Marvel characters from both movies and TV shows, highlighting their unique qualities and potential for future storylines.
1. Nova (Richard Rider)
One of the most underappreciated characters in the Marvel universe is Nova, particularly Richard Rider. Despite his significant contributions during the Annihilation era in the comics, Nova has yet to make his debut in the MCU. As a member of the Nova Corps, Richard Rider possesses incredible cosmic powers and has played a crucial role in saving the universe multiple times. His potential for epic space adventures and connections to the Guardians of the Galaxy make him a prime candidate for future MCU projects.
2. Cloak and Dagger
This dynamic duo has been severely underutilized in both comics and on-screen adaptations. Tyrone Johnson (Cloak) and Tandy Bowen (Dagger) possess complementary powers of darkness and light, respectively, which offer unique visual and storytelling opportunities. While they had their own TV series on Freeform, many fans believe these characters deserve to be integrated into the larger MCU. Their complex backstory involving drug abuse and their potential to tackle serious themes make them stand out from typical superhero fare.
3. Adam Warlock
Although Adam Warlock has recently appeared in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,” many fans argue that he remains underrated compared to his comic book counterpart. In the source material, Warlock is a cosmic powerhouse who has saved the universe multiple times through his brilliant strategic mind. His complex relationship with his evil future self, Magus, and his connection to the Soul Stone provide ample material for future storylines.
4. Talos
Introduced in “Captain Marvel” and further developed in “Secret Invasion,” Talos is a Skrull leader who has quickly become a fan favorite. His character subverts expectations by presenting a more nuanced portrayal of the shape-shifting aliens. Talos’s wit, loyalty, and complexity make him stand out as one of the most underrated characters in the MCU. His tragic fate in “Secret Invasion” only emphasizes the impact he’s had on the narrative.
5. Wong
Despite appearing in multiple MCU films and TV shows, Wong remains criminally underrated. As the current Sorcerer Supreme, Wong has proven himself to be a capable leader, a loyal friend, and a formidable warrior. His dry humor and no-nonsense attitude provide a perfect counterbalance to the more eccentric characters in the MCU. Many fans argue that Wong deserves his own Disney+ series to fully explore his character and the mystical side of the Marvel universe.
6. Jimmy Woo
FBI agent Jimmy Woo, portrayed by Randall Park, has become a surprise fan favorite since his introduction in “Ant-Man and the Wasp”. His earnest personality, coupled with his determination to master close-up magic, has endeared him to audiences. Woo’s role in “WandaVision” further showcased his competence and likability, leading many to call for more prominent appearances in future MCU projects.
7. Mantis
While Mantis has been a part of the Guardians of the Galaxy team since their second film, many feel that her character hasn’t been fully utilized. Her empathic abilities and gentle nature provide a unique perspective within the often chaotic cosmic side of the MCU. There’s potential for Mantis to play a more significant role in future storylines, possibly exploring her comic book origins and expanded powers.
8. Peggy Carter
Despite having her own TV series and appearing in multiple MCU films, Peggy Carter remains underappreciated by the wider fanbase. Her role in shaping the MCU’s history, her strength as a female character in a male-dominated field, and her alternate universe appearance as Captain Carter all contribute to her importance in the Marvel universe. Fans argue that Peggy deserves more recognition for her contributions to the overall narrative.
A Universe of Untapped Potential
These characters represent just a fraction of the underrated gems within the Marvel universe. As the MCU continues to expand, there’s hope that these and other overlooked characters will get their chance to shine, bringing new dimensions to the ever-growing tapestry of Marvel storytelling.
