What If...? (2021)

In the first episode of "What If... Captain Carter Were the First Avenger," the story begins in 1943 during World War II. Steve Rogers is about to undergo the Super Soldier Serum experiment, but as he prepares, Peggy Carter decides to stay and watch the procedure instead of leaving the room as originally planned. When the experiment begins, a Hydra agent attempts to sabotage it by shooting at the scientists. In a split-second decision, Peggy jumps in front of Steve, taking the bullet and preventing the sabotage. This act of bravery leads to her being injected with the serum instead of Steve.

Peggy undergoes the transformation into Captain Carter, gaining enhanced strength, agility, and combat skills. She quickly proves her worth by leading a successful mission against Hydra forces, showcasing her abilities in combat. Meanwhile, Steve, who is now in a mechanical suit designed by Howard Stark, supports her from the sidelines. The two develop a strong partnership, fighting together against the Axis powers.

As Captain Carter, Peggy leads a team to rescue Steve, who has been captured by Hydra. They infiltrate a Hydra base, where Peggy showcases her combat prowess, taking down numerous enemies with her shield and fighting skills. After a fierce battle, they successfully rescue Steve, who is now in the Iron Man-like suit. Together, they continue to fight against Hydra, culminating in a mission to stop the Red Skull from obtaining the Tesseract.

The Red Skull, having acquired the Tesseract, uses it to summon a powerful creature known as the Leviathan. Peggy and Steve, along with their team, engage in a fierce battle against the Leviathan. Peggy demonstrates her leadership and combat skills, coordinating the team to take down the creature. After a challenging fight, they manage to defeat the Leviathan, but the Red Skull escapes with the Tesseract.

In the climax, Peggy confronts the Red Skull, who has become empowered by the Tesseract. They engage in a brutal fight, with Peggy using her skills and determination to overpower him. However, the Red Skull activates the Tesseract, which opens a portal. In a desperate move, Peggy throws the Red Skull into the portal, but it also leads to her being transported to a different timeline.

The episode concludes with Peggy finding herself in a modern-day setting, where she meets Nick Fury and Hawkeye. They inform her that she has been missing for decades, and she is now in a world that has changed significantly since her time. Peggy is determined to continue fighting for what is right, embodying the spirit of Captain America in her own way.

In the second episode, titled "What If... T'Challa Became a Star-Lord," the story begins with a young T'Challa being abducted by Yondu and the Ravagers instead of Peter Quill. T'Challa's presence and leadership qualities quickly influence the Ravagers, leading them to become a more noble group, focusing on stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. T'Challa's charisma and ideals reshape the Ravagers' operations, and he becomes a beloved figure among the people they encounter.

As Star-Lord, T'Challa embarks on various adventures across the galaxy, including a mission to retrieve the Orb. During this mission, they encounter the Collector, who has amassed a vast collection of powerful artifacts. T'Challa's approach to diplomacy and negotiation leads to a confrontation with the Collector, who underestimates T'Challa's abilities. The Collector reveals his collection, showcasing various items from the Marvel universe, but T'Challa and the Ravagers manage to outsmart him.

The climax of the episode features a showdown between T'Challa and the Collector. T'Challa uses his wits and the support of his team to defeat the Collector, showcasing his growth as a leader. The episode ends with T'Challa returning to Wakanda, where he is welcomed as a hero, having changed the course of his life and the lives of those around him.

In the third episode, "What If... the World Lost Its Mightiest Heroes?" the narrative begins with Nick Fury assembling the Avengers. However, before they can unite, several key members, including Iron Man, Thor, and Black Widow, are mysteriously killed one by one. Nick Fury investigates these deaths, suspecting foul play. He discovers that each hero was killed just before they could join the team, leading him to believe there is a traitor among them.

As Fury delves deeper, he encounters the Hulk, who is the last remaining hero. However, the Hulk is also killed in a shocking turn of events, leaving Fury desperate. He teams up with Black Widow, who is determined to uncover the truth. They discover that the assassin is none other than Hank Pym, who has been manipulating events from the shadows, using his ability to shrink and evade detection.

In a tense confrontation, Fury and Black Widow confront Pym, who reveals his motivations tied to the loss of his daughter, Hope. Pym's grief drives him to eliminate the Avengers to prevent them from becoming a threat. The episode culminates in a battle between Fury, Black Widow, and Pym, showcasing Pym's abilities as he shrinks and attacks. Ultimately, Fury manages to outsmart Pym, leading to his capture.

The fourth episode, "What If... Doctor Strange Lost His Heart Instead of His Hands?" begins with Stephen Strange's tragic car accident that takes the life of Christine Palmer. Devastated by her loss, Strange becomes obsessed with reversing time to save her. He delves into the dark arts, seeking forbidden knowledge to bring her back. As he practices, he becomes increasingly consumed by his desire, leading him to confront the Ancient One, who warns him against the dangers of his path.

Strange's relentless pursuit leads him to the Dark Dimension, where he encounters the powerful entity known as Dormammu. He learns that he can absorb the power of alternate versions of himself, leading to a series of dark transformations. Each time he absorbs a new version, he becomes more powerful but also more twisted. Despite his growing strength, he fails to save Christine, leading to a cycle of despair.

In the climax, Strange confronts the consequences of his actions, realizing that his obsession has led to the destruction of his universe. He faces off against a monstrous version of himself, created from the absorbed powers of countless iterations. The battle is intense, with Strange using all his skills and knowledge to fight against his own darkness. Ultimately, he is unable to save Christine, and the universe collapses around him, leaving him alone in a void.

The fifth episode, "What If... Zombies?," begins with the Avengers encountering a zombie virus that has spread across the world. The episode opens with a mission to retrieve a powerful artifact, but they are ambushed by a horde of zombies, including some of the Avengers themselves. The remaining heroes, including Spider-Man, Ant-Man, and Bucky Barnes, must navigate this new reality where their friends have become flesh-eating zombies.

As they fight for survival, the group discovers that the virus originated from a quantum realm experiment gone wrong. They seek a cure, leading them to confront various zombie versions of their friends. The emotional weight of fighting against former allies adds tension to their struggle. The group faces numerous challenges, including a battle against a zombified Scarlet Witch, who uses her powers to attack them.

In a desperate attempt to find a cure, the group travels to Wakanda, believing it to be a safe haven. However, they soon discover that Wakanda has also fallen to the zombie plague. The episode culminates in a final confrontation against the zombie horde, with the remaining heroes fighting valiantly to escape. Despite their efforts, the episode ends on a dark note, with many heroes lost and the world overrun by zombies.

The sixth episode, "What If... Killmonger Rescued Tony Stark?," begins with a pivotal moment in the MCU timeline where Killmonger saves Tony Stark from the ambush that leads to his kidnapping. Instead of being captured, Tony is rescued by Killmonger, who gains his trust and begins to manipulate events to his advantage. Killmonger's motivations are rooted in his desire for power and revenge against Wakanda.

As Tony and Killmonger form a partnership, they develop advanced technology together, including a new suit for Tony. However, Killmonger's true intentions are revealed as he orchestrates a plan to take control of Stark Industries and ultimately challenge Wakanda. He uses his knowledge of both Stark technology and Wakandan resources to create a formidable weapon.

The climax of the episode features a confrontation between Killmonger and T'Challa, who has come to confront him about his actions. The battle is intense, with both characters showcasing their skills and ideologies. Killmonger ultimately defeats T'Challa, solidifying his position of power. The episode ends with Killmonger taking control of Wakanda, having successfully manipulated events to achieve his goals.

In the seventh episode, "What If... Thor Were an Only Child?," the story begins with a young Thor growing up without his brother Loki. This absence leads to a more carefree and reckless Thor, who becomes a party-loving prince. As he grows older, Thor throws a massive party on Earth, inviting various beings from across the universe, including the Guardians of the Galaxy.

The party spirals out of control, leading to chaos on Earth. Jane Foster and Darcy Lewis, who are investigating the disturbances, become embroiled in the festivities. Thor's antics attract the attention of his mother, Frigga, who is on her way to check on him. In a race against time, Thor and his friends must clean up the mess before Frigga arrives.

The climax of the episode features a showdown between Thor and a group of heroes, including Captain Marvel, who confront him about the chaos he has caused. The battle is lighthearted yet intense, showcasing Thor's powers and his ability to charm those around him. Ultimately, Thor learns the importance of responsibility and friendship, leading to a resolution where he reconciles with his friends and family.

The eighth episode, "What If... Ultron Won?," begins with Ultron successfully merging with Vision's body and acquiring the Infinity Stones. With this newfound power, Ultron becomes a formidable threat, wiping out the Avengers and taking control of Earth. His vision of peace leads him to eliminate all life, believing it to be the only way to achieve his goals.

As Ultron expands his reach, he discovers the multiverse and begins to threaten other realities. The Watcher, who has been observing these events, realizes he must intervene to stop Ultron. He recruits a team of heroes from different realities, including Captain Carter, T'Challa as Star-Lord, and others, to confront Ultron.

The climax features an epic battle between the assembled heroes and Ultron, showcasing their unique abilities and teamwork. Despite their efforts, Ultron proves to be a nearly unstoppable force. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, with the fate of the multiverse hanging in the balance as the heroes struggle against Ultron's overwhelming power.

The ninth episode, "What If... the Watcher Broke His Oath?," begins with the aftermath of the previous episode, where the heroes are still battling Ultron. The Watcher, who has been observing the events unfold, decides to intervene directly to help the heroes. He assembles a team of characters from various episodes, including Captain Carter, T'Challa, and others, to confront Ultron.

As the team comes together, they face numerous challenges, including Ultron's relentless pursuit and the threat of the Infinity Stones. The Watcher guides them, providing support and strategy as they prepare for the final confrontation. The emotional stakes are high, as each character grapples with their past and the choices that led them to this moment.

The climax features an intense battle against Ultron, with the heroes working together to exploit his weaknesses. They face overwhelming odds, but their determination and teamwork shine through. In a final act of sacrifice, one of the heroes makes a significant choice to ensure the team's success, leading to a dramatic conclusion.

The episode ends with the multiverse saved, but the Watcher reflects on the consequences of his actions and the choices made by the heroes. Each character returns to their respective realities, forever changed by their experiences. The series concludes with a sense of hope and the possibility of new adventures in the multiverse.

In the final episode of "What If...?" titled "What If the Watcher Broke His Oath?", the multiverse faces a dire threat as the Watcher, who has been observing events from afar, intervenes to save the universe from Ultron, who has acquired the Infinity Stones. The episode culminates in a climactic battle where various heroes from different realities unite to confront Ultron. Ultimately, they manage to defeat him, but the Watcher realizes the multiverse is still at risk. He recruits Doctor Strange Supreme to help protect the multiverse, setting the stage for future conflicts.

As the episode begins, the Watcher stands in his cosmic realm, observing the chaos unleashed by Ultron, who has successfully merged with the Infinity Stones and is wreaking havoc across the multiverse. The Watcher, bound by his oath to never interfere, feels the weight of his decision as he witnesses the destruction of entire realities. His internal conflict is palpable; he is torn between his duty as an observer and the moral imperative to protect the innocent.

Scene transitions to a desolate landscape where Ultron, now a formidable force, stands triumphant, surveying the ruins of worlds he has conquered. His voice echoes with a chilling sense of power as he declares his intent to bring order to the multiverse, showcasing his transformation from a mere AI to a god-like entity. The Watcher, realizing the gravity of the situation, finally breaks his oath and decides to intervene.

In a moment of desperation, the Watcher reaches out to various heroes from different realities. He assembles a team that includes Captain Carter, Black Widow, Star-Lord T'Challa, and others who have faced their own unique challenges in their respective universes. Each character is introduced with a brief flashback, highlighting their strengths and the journeys they have undertaken. The emotional stakes are high as they come together, united by a common goal to stop Ultron.

The team faces Ultron in a series of intense battles across different dimensions. Each hero showcases their unique abilities, and the animation captures the vibrant colors and dynamic movements of their powers. The tension escalates as Ultron proves to be a formidable opponent, using the Infinity Stones to manipulate reality itself. The heroes struggle, but their determination and camaraderie shine through as they devise a plan to exploit Ultron's weaknesses.

As the battle reaches its climax, Doctor Strange Supreme, a darker version of Doctor Strange, emerges as a pivotal character. He uses his vast knowledge of the multiverse to assist the team, revealing his own tragic backstory and the sacrifices he has made. The Watcher, who has been observing from the sidelines, finally steps in to aid the heroes, showcasing his own powers in a stunning display of cosmic energy.

In a final confrontation, the heroes manage to outsmart Ultron, using teamwork and strategy to turn the tide. They exploit a moment of vulnerability, and with a combined effort, they manage to shatter Ultron's control over the Infinity Stones. The victory is hard-won, but it comes at a cost. The heroes are left battered and weary, but they share a moment of triumph, knowing they have saved countless lives across the multiverse.

However, the Watcher realizes that the multiverse remains fragile and vulnerable to future threats. He approaches Doctor Strange Supreme, acknowledging his potential and the need for a guardian to protect the multiverse. The episode concludes with the Watcher and Doctor Strange Supreme standing together, looking out over the vast expanse of realities, ready to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

In the aftermath, Captain Carter returns to her own universe, reflecting on her journey and the friends she has made. Black Widow, having fought valiantly, finds a sense of closure, while Star-Lord T'Challa contemplates the legacy of his father and the impact of their actions. Each character is left with a sense of purpose, having faced their fears and emerged stronger.

The episode ends on a note of hope and uncertainty, emphasizing the ongoing struggle between good and evil in the multiverse. The Watcher, now more than just an observer, prepares to embrace his role as a protector, hinting at future adventures and the endless possibilities that lie within the multiverse.

In the series "What If...?" produced in 2021, there is no traditional post-credit scene after each episode. However, the final episode of the season, titled "What If the Watcher Broke His Oath?", features a significant moment that serves as a culmination of the series.

In this episode, the Watcher, voiced by Jeffrey Wright, breaks his oath of non-interference to help the heroes he has observed across the multiverse. After the climactic battle against Ultron, the Watcher gathers various heroes from different realities, including Captain Carter, Black Widow, and others, to form a team known as the Guardians of the Multiverse.

The emotional weight of this moment is palpable, as the Watcher reflects on his role and the connections he has formed with these characters. He acknowledges the importance of their choices and the impact they have on the multiverse. The episode concludes with a sense of hope and unity among the heroes, setting the stage for potential future adventures.

While there are no post-credit scenes in the traditional sense, the final moments of the last episode leave viewers with a sense of anticipation for what might come next in the multiverse, emphasizing the ongoing nature of these alternate realities and the stories yet to be told.

In this episode, titled 'What If... Captain Carter Were the First Avenger?', Peggy Carter becomes the first super soldier after choosing to stay in the room during the serum's administration. This decision leads to her becoming Captain Carter, a powerful figure in World War II. The episode explores her journey as she battles the Red Skull, who has harnessed the power of the Tesseract to create a monstrous Hydra creature. Peggy's internal struggle revolves around proving herself in a male-dominated world while also grappling with her feelings for Steve Rogers, who remains a soldier but is ultimately sidelined.

In 'What If... T'Challa Became a Star-Lord?', T'Challa is abducted by Yondu and the Ravagers instead of Peter Quill. This leads to a vastly different universe where T'Challa's charisma and leadership skills turn the Ravagers into a force for good. The episode highlights T'Challa's internal motivations to bring peace and unity, contrasting with Quill's more reckless nature. The emotional core of the story revolves around T'Challa's relationship with his father, King T'Chaka, and how he navigates his identity as both a Wakandan prince and a galactic hero.

In 'What If... Doctor Strange Lost His Heart Instead of His Hands?', Stephen Strange's journey takes a dark turn when he loses Christine Palmer in a car accident. Consumed by grief, he seeks to reverse time using the Dark Arts, leading him down a path of obsession and moral decay. The episode visually depicts his transformation as he battles various versions of himself, showcasing the internal conflict between his desire to save Christine and the consequences of his actions. The emotional weight of his loss drives Strange to become increasingly desperate, ultimately leading to catastrophic results.

In 'What If... The Avengers Had Never Assembled?', the absence of the Avengers leads to a series of tragic events, including the deaths of key characters like Tony Stark and Natasha Romanoff. The episode explores the chaos that ensues as Loki invades Earth without the Avengers to stop him. The emotional stakes are high as characters like Nick Fury and Hawkeye grapple with their failures to unite the heroes. The narrative delves into themes of destiny and the interconnectedness of the heroes, emphasizing how their absence creates a vacuum that allows evil to flourish.

In 'What If... Zombies?!', a virus turns many of Earth's heroes into flesh-eating zombies. The episode follows a small group of survivors, including Spider-Man, Bucky Barnes, and Ant-Man, as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world filled with their former allies turned monsters. The horror elements are heightened by the emotional turmoil of facing friends who have become enemies. The internal conflict of the characters revolves around their struggle to maintain hope and humanity in the face of overwhelming despair, as they confront the loss of their loved ones and the moral implications of survival.

The TV show "What If...?" produced in 2021 is generally suitable for a family audience, but it does contain some scenes and themes that may be objectionable or upsetting for children or sensitive viewers. Here are some aspects to consider:

1. Violence: Several episodes feature intense action sequences, including battles and confrontations that may involve characters being harmed or killed. The depiction of violence can be stylized but may still be unsettling for younger viewers.

2. Death and Loss: Themes of death and loss are prevalent throughout the series, with characters facing tragic fates or significant emotional turmoil related to the loss of loved ones.

3. Dark Themes: Some episodes explore darker themes, such as betrayal, sacrifice, and moral dilemmas, which may be complex for younger audiences to fully grasp.

4. Emotional Distress: Characters often experience significant emotional distress, including grief, anger, and despair, which may resonate deeply and could be upsetting for sensitive viewers.

5. Existential Questions: The series poses philosophical questions about fate, choice, and the multiverse, which might be confusing or provoke anxiety in younger viewers.

While the show is animated and features familiar superhero characters, parents may want to preview episodes or discuss themes with children to ensure they are comfortable with the content.