Loki - TV Series
Loki Series: Unravelling the God of Mischief's Destiny (spoiler free)
When it comes to charismatic antiheroes, no one can captivate audiences quite like the God of Mischief himself, Loki. From his debut in "Thor" to his unforgettable moments in "Avengers," Loki has become an integral part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
And today, at the conclusion of Season 2 of this amazing TV show, Loki’s burden of glorious purpose is realised.
“I am burdened with glorious purpose”
Let me start by saying that the latest phase of the MCU hasn’t been great. While there were issues with The Infinity Saga (Thor: The Dark World, Iron Man 2), generally it progressed really well, had excellent pay-offs and a satisfying conclusion. The latest entries into the MCU have lacked that. She-Hulk was a poorly written TV show that I couldn’t even push past episode 4 on. Secret Invasion left viewers wondering why it was even made. But Loki, ooohhh Loki, that is a shining gem atop the MCU crown.
Let me first list why Loki is so good, because who doesn’t love a good list?
The music. Natalie Holt has developed a stirring score with themes and variations that are instantly recognisable throughout. I would love to see more from her (she also did the excellent score for Obi-Wan)
Tom Hiddleston. Dramatic range, comic timing and a smile that makes you want to buy not one, but two used cars from him. I’m never disappointed seeing him on the screen.
Owen Wilson. Who thought he could be so good as Mobius? I would say this is his most impressive role by far.
Ke Huy Quan. “Okie dokie Doctor Jones”. After a 19 year hiatus he wowed audiences in Everything, Everywhere, All At Once (watch it!), and now he is as charming and thoughtful as ever in the role of Ouroboros.
Eric Martin. The Loki head writer/showrunner has crafted a perfect 2 season arc with fantastic dialogue, fleshed out characters and meaningful development. It’s a shame there will only be two seasons.
Production design. The detail and care taken in designing the sets, costumes and props goes beyond what any TV show should deservedly receive, yet here we are. Props (pun intended) go out to Kasra Farahani.
So why am writing about this? Why am I taking the time to write (and you to read) my thoughts on a little Marvel TV show? Because it’s so damn good. Like the characters in the show, Mobius M. Mobius and Ouroboros, this show is all about loops and circles. Even Loki’s Norse name means “lock” or “knot” due to his own cycles of failure over and over again. But this Loki, this variant, changes and progresses. He learns and gets better, and the payoff all throughout the show is there in spades, richly rewarding the viewer for stickling with him on his journey.
And at the end of it all is Jonathan Majors. While in hot water right now over legal issues (which I won’t go into here), he plays out his various roles with skill and aplomb. He is an absolute joy to watch, taunting and getting under Loki’s skin, always a step ahead.
Season 1 and 2 of Loki are out now on Disney+, and I highly recommend you take the time to sit down and binger the living hell out of them both.
