Another Sign Marvel’s Echo Is Going To Flop With Fans
Marvel’s street-level, MA-rated series Echo will release five binge-worthy episodes on January 9 at 9 pm ET. However, the absence of critic reviews and Rotten Tomatoes scores ahead of launch is a bad sign, given that it is standard practice for major releases. While review copies exist, a strict embargo is preventing any critiques until the series is available on Disney+.
Marvel Hiding Something?
The lack of pre-release reviews typically leads to assumptions that the studio is attempting to hide something. Given Marvel’s recent experience with Secret Invasion, one of their worst-reviewed projects, the absence of Echo critic reviews might trigger similar fears. However, an alternative theory suggests the studio might simply be guarding against spoilers, particularly with rumored surprise MCU cameos.
Social Media Embargo
On the evening of January 8, the social media embargo for Marvel’s Echo was lifted, allowing critics to share short, spoiler-free reviews. However, crucial review scores will only be released after fans have already started watching the show.
Traditionally, studios suppress negative reviews to safeguard ticket presales and day-one purchases in the case of movies and video games.
Some Fan Reaction Positive
However, the release of Marvel’s Echo on streaming platform Disney+ alters this dynamic. The absence of reviews is unlikely to impact subscription sales.
Moreover, the theory that the studio is blocking reviews to protect against spoilers makes little sense, as critics are cautious about revealing major plot details and leaking information about cameos.
First reactions from critics have since flooded social media with praise for the adult tone of Marvel’s Echo. Some folks described Echo’s Alaqua Cox as a “rockstar,” calling the series an “unflinching and relentless” addition to the MCU. The show’s tone is highlighted as “gritty” and “gripping,” promising a “truly fantastic” experience for Marvel enthusiasts.
Exploration Of Trauma
Director Sydney Freeland has described the show as an exploration of trauma, emphasizing how it delves into the intricate ways individuals cope without the cosmic consequences that often dominate MCU storylines.
Freeland’s focus on a street-level view sets Marvel’s Echo apart, offering viewers a more grounded and relatable experience, with the fate of family, rather than the universe, at stake.
Alaqua Cox Is Maya Lopez
Marvel’s Echo tells the story of Maya Lopez (Alaqua Cox), whose ruthless past in New York City catches up with her in her hometown.
The series sees Maya confront her past and reconnect with her Native American roots as she realizes the true meaning of family and community. All five episodes of Echo will be available on Disney+ and Hulu.
Marvel’s Echo brings together an impressive lineup of actors, including Alaqua Cox as Maya Lopez/Echo, Vincent D’Onofrio as Wilson Fisk/Kingpin, Charlie Cox as Matt Murdock / Daredevil, Zahn McClarnon as William Lopez, Devery Jacobs as Bonnie, and several other actors in various roles.
Executive producers include Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, and others.
Connections To Other Series
The identity of the characters making cameo appearances in Marvel’s Echo remains unknown. However, it’s worth noting that the titular character has connections to the Avengers, specifically Clint Barton/Hawkeye (Jeremy Renner) and Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld), stemming from her involvement in the 2021 Disney+ series Hawkeye.
Source: Forbes
