Movies News Talk
Marvel's television initiatives have had a mixed record; some shows like Netflix's Daredevil have drawn great praise while others like ABC's Inhumans failed to appeal to viewers. Though it sadly went under the radar despite critical praise and even a Primetime Emmy nomination, Legion, a psychological horror/thriller series, is one show that really stands out for its quality and originality.
Created by Noah Hawley in collaboration with Marvel Television, Legion chronicles David Haller, a man diagnosed with schizophrenia who finds he has strong mutant powers. The show stars Aubrey Plaza, Rachel Keller, and Dan Stevens among other gifted performers. Although Legion might have missed its opportunity to attract a sizable audience during its first run, 2024 is likely to be the year that transforms everything thanks in part to the popularity of some of its cast members on mainstream superhero films.
Two prominent Legion stars, Hamish Linklater and Aubrey Plaza, are set to shine in next superhero films, so drawing more attention to their earlier work on Legion. Set to appear in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) series Agatha: All Along as Rio Vidal, Plaza portrayed the multifarious and fascinating character Lenny in Legion. This part promises to highlight Plaza's acting skills for a larger audience.
Hamish Linklater, who portrayed the interrogator Clark Debussy in Legion, is voicing the title Dark Knight in the animated series Batman: Caped Crusader. Linklater has a great chance to highlight his adaptability and appeal to a fresh audience here.
Not only is it fantastic news for these performers that Plaza and Linklater are succeeding in their new roles, but it also creates opportunities for the whole Legion cast to return to the superhero genre. A door has opened for Legion to maybe join the greater MCU universe as upcoming film Deadpool & Wolverine combines the Fox X-Men universe with the MCU.
Living in a different branch of the X-Men universe, Legion developed an original and gripping story that has sadly gone unappreciated. With its big ensemble and two-hour running length, Deadpool & Wolverine could be the perfect venue for Legion members to make cameo appearances, so allowing them a chance to be part of the larger MCU and maybe get the credit they so merit.
The way the MCU combines the Fox X-Men universe offers Legion a dynamic chance to at last get the respect it has been due. Legion has great potential to add much to the MCU scene with its unique narrative and gifted actors.