• Home
  • News
  • Read
  • Watch
    • 2 Guys 1 Pad
    • Button Bashers
    • TV Reactions
    • Trailer Reactions
    • Film Reactions
    • Stream Highlights
    • Versus
    • Random
  • Listen
  • Topics
    • Sports
    • Games
    • Adventure
    • Film
    • Television
  • Merch
  • About Us
    • Careers
  • Follow us
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Youtube
    • Instagram
    • Discord
    • Twitch
All Maverick
All Maverick
  • Home
  • News
  • Read
  • Watch
    • 2 Guys 1 Pad
    • Button Bashers
    • TV Reactions
    • Trailer Reactions
    • Film Reactions
    • Stream Highlights
    • Versus
    • Random
  • Listen
  • Topics
    • Sports
    • Games
    • Adventure
    • Film
    • Television
  • Merch
  • About Us
    • Careers
  • Follow us
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Youtube
    • Instagram
    • Discord
    • Twitch
Home
Read

Moon Knight Season 1 Review: One Giant Leap For Marvel

After finishing Moon Knight Season 1, I can safely say that Marvel’s new direction is a success. The series deviated from Marvel’s normal formula of action and opted for a much slower pace, and even changed several plot elements from the original comics.

The result is a deeply engaging setting and story, that has ensured the franchise’s success for many moons to come. With the addition of electrifying action scenes, Marvel has offered a show that is the complete package. Also, very minor visual spoilers ahead.

Visuals

In a previous review, I had praised Moon Knight for its high quality CGI and composition when it came to certain scenes. I am glad to state that this did not change and show maintained its standards throughout the whole season.

I often found myself staring at awe with the use of lighting and imagery throughout the series. The usage of the moon during the rooftop chase scene in episode 2 and Duat’s sombre colour scheme in episode 5 are some of my favourites. Furthermore, the rich Egyptian symbolism and iconology fully transports you to a fantasy that is within reality.

In previous Marvel movies and shows, backdrops do not get enough attention. Both Endgame and Eternals for example, are guilty of creating desolate empty spaces during their climactic final battles. I appreciate Jeremy Slater‘s and Mohamed Diab‘s attention to detail, as Moon Knight genuinely creates art with its set design.

Speaking of fights, the choreography cannot be ignored. The season had a total of 2 proper full fight scenes, filled with long sweeping shots, slow motion and a mixture of acrobatic and martial fighting styles.

Moon Knight is predominantly a martial art hero and I have to say, the stunt team have perfectly captured that. Yes fancy twirls and spins exist, but Moon Knight still prefers to use quick straight jabs, with arm bars and throws to efficiently take down hostiles.

He even remembers that legs exist, often delivering side kicks or removing his assailant’s privilege to walk with said kicks. It is a welcome breath of fresh air from the constant wild swinging of Captain America.

Music and Sound Design

The score for Moon Knight is cinematic and culturally varied to the point that you will be fully immersed in every scene. During major set-pieces especially, there is a fusion of orchestral symphonies interlaced with Arabic instrumentation and vocals which really reflect the exotic setting.

It effectively conveyed the atmosphere, successfully evoking a sense of wanderlust in the viewer. The swelling of trumpets indicates the scene’s large scale whilst the traditional singing pays homage to the locale, reminding you where you are.

Meanwhile, the sound design is rich and crisp, ensuring each scene is impactful. Some examples are the ringing of Moon Knight’s blades, the visceral punches and notably, the way the music clips when a body swap happens.

The choices that the team have made are deliberate. Moon Knight does not neglect the audio aspect and as a result creates a viewing experience that stimulates all senses. I rarely felt any “down time” whilst watching the show, as even during slower scenes it built tension through its ambience and music.

Plot and Writing

Moon Knight’s plot was a veritable buffet, filled with plentiful intrigue, action, comedy and emotional drama. The plot primarily revolves around the mystery of Steven’s personalities, Khonshu and the Cult of Ammit. However, it was also a character drama, focusing on the relationship between Steven, Marc and Layla.

It was not afraid to tackle heavy themes like abuse and mental health. Through imagery, the series allowed the viewer to personally see Steven’s inner turmoil. The show also drew deep inspiration and connection to Egyptian mythology and culture, with plot elements being heavily reliant on gods, religion and ancient artifacts.

It added more weight and scale to the world, which in turn gave more depth for the viewer to explore.

All of this was possible through the significant changes the writers made to the story. No longer is Moon Knight the billionaire by day, vigilante by night nor is he just man with mere alter egos. Steven Grant is a human being, with a troubled past and mind; he has genuine struggles he must overcome.

Acting

Oscar Isaac portrays this perfectly, as he seamlessly switches his physicality and voices between his guarded and jittery Steven, and his focused yet brooding Marc.

Moreover, May Calamawy’s delivery and characterisation of Layla El-Faouly shows frustration and care, without the sense of entitlement. Displays of overt anger show elements of restraint, as all characters are aware more is at stake than their relationship. May captured Layla’s tenacity and intuition wonderfully.

Last but not least, Ethan Hawke’s Harrow had an immense presence on screen and successfully unsettled viewers the minute he appeared. I spoke previously about his soft, yet stern intimidation but recent episodes depict a quiet yet frantic religious fervour within.

Subtle jitters and shaky breath betray his composure as we the viewers observe his descent into evil.

Conclusion

Much like Steven Grant Of The Gift Shop, Moon Knight is filled so many elements it rides on the brink of insanity. Yet, much like Mr Grant, it somehow not only works, but it kicks ass! I highly recommend you watch this show even if you aren’t a Marvel fan.

Our team also really seemed to have high praise for the show. Check below for Alan, Jez and Tom’s reaction to the series finale to hear their thoughts!

Did you enjoy the show? Maybe you disagree with what I said! Whatever it is, go wild with your thoughts down the comment box! Also, don’t forget to join our Discord and discuss all things gaming and entertainment with the All Maverick team and community!

Related

  • Tags
  • action
  • disney
  • disney plus
  • disney+
  • drama
  • marvel comics
  • marvel reviews
  • marvel series
  • mcu
  • moon knight
  • mystery
  • superhero
  • tv series

Social Sharing

Facebook Twitter Google+ LinkedIn Pinterest WhatsApp
Next article Rocket League Brings Back Voice Chat
Previous article Scarlett Witch Enters Fortnite's Item Shop

James Gay

James is a law graduate who has decided to delve into his long time passion of videogames. He plays a wide-range of genres from FPS, Action, Fighting Games, to RPGs and Grand Strategy. His aim is to always give the reader value, be it knowledge or entertainment.

Related Posts

PRIMAL 1x9 REACTION & REVIEW | The Night Feeder

PRIMAL 1x9 REACTION & REVIEW | The Night Feeder

THE LAST OF US 1x2 REACTION & REVIEW | Infected

THE LAST OF US 1x2 REACTION & REVIEW | Infected

LOST 2x04 REACTION & REVIEW | Everybody Hates Hugo

LOST 2x04 REACTION & REVIEW | Everybody Hates Hugo

2 Comments

  1. She-Hulk Is Coming To Disney+! - All Maverick
    May 18, 2022 at 2:38 pm Reply ↓

    […] contrast to Moon Knight’s more serious story, She-Hulk promises to be a more typical Marvel comedy/action romp, complete with […]

  2. Breaking Bad statues to be erected in Albuquerque, New Mexico - All Maverick
    July 12, 2022 at 10:56 am Reply ↓

    […] us know down in the comments below! If you want to read more about tv shows, you can also check out our review of Moon Knight! And don’t forget to join our Discord to chat with us about all things TV and […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Shipping
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Back to top
© All Maverick Ltd 2020. All rights reserved.
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT