The MCU Revives a Neglected Phase 2 Villain After 11 Years Since His Last Appearance

Warning! This post contains SPOILERS for What If…? Season 3, Episode 4.

In the latest installment of What If…? Season 3, Episode 4, several long-forgotten villains from the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) make a surprising return, including one of the franchise’s least regarded antagonists. Over the years, the MCU has seen its fair share of villains, such as Ronan, Yellowjacket, and the returning Ultron, that have struggled to leave a lasting impression. This trend continues into the Multiverse Saga, where even some of the more prominent villains, like Gorr the God Butcher and Kang the Conqueror, have made fleeting appearances without much development.

A significant factor contributing to this issue is the tendency to eliminate villains shortly after their introduction. Many noteworthy antagonists, including Ronan and Yellowjacket, met their demise before they could truly captivate the audience. Even characters like Ego and Ulysses Klaue, who received a warmer welcome from fans, were hindered by their untimely exits. However, the MCU’s embrace of the Multiverse now allows characters—both living and deceased—to resurface, giving them an opportunity to redeem and redefine their storylines in What If…?.

Reviving Thor’s Most Underused Villain in What If… Season 3

Reintroducing Malekith as a Cunning Villain

In this episode, we see Howard the Duck and Darcy Lewis’ mysterious baby egg emerge as the universe’s most sought-after item. After seeking refuge in a resort presided over by Frost Giant Loki, their moment of peace is quickly disrupted when an array of MCU villains descends on them to claim their unborn child. Among them, Malekith the Accursed leads his army of Dark Elves in a daring bid to seize the egg, only to be thwarted by the power of the baby within. Notably, this episode features Steve French voicing Malekith, stepping in for Christopher Eccleston.

Another Overlooked Villain Makes a Comeback

Kaecilius’ Ambitious Attempt to Claim the Egg

Adding to the eclectic mix of villains in this episode is Kaecilius, who also makes a significant appearance. He attempts to harness the egg’s power through a meticulously orchestrated magic ritual with the aid of his followers, coming alarmingly close to stealing it from under Howard and Darcy’s noses. Interestingly, in this alternate universe, Kaecilius has taken over the role of the Collector, traditionally represented by the Grandmaster’s brother, Taneleer Tivan.

While the screen time for these revived villains may be limited, their interactions with one another provide a fascinating glimpse into what could have been. The original portrayals of Malekith and Kaecilius in films like Thor: The Dark World and Doctor Strange often depicted them as flat characters, fixated solely on acquiring power. What If…? reimagines these figures, showcasing how they might adapt their strategies in light of previous defeats, directing their ambitions towards unique objects, like Howard’s egg. Unfortunately, fans may not have the chance to see their live-action counterparts get a similar revitalization.

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