What Is the Story About?
Steven Grant (Oscar Isaac) is an ordinary, soft-spoken gift-shop employee. He finds himself in different places after he sleeps, leading him to be tied to the bed. Why is it happening, and who is Marc Spector?
What happens when Steven Grant knows the truth related to Marc Spector? The series’ overall plot is how he lands in an extraordinary situation involving Egyptian Gods and saving the world.
Performances?
Oscar Isaac is the mainstay of the series, along with May Calamawy. The former is a treat to watch, with his split personality act offering him multiple shades and depth. The fun and seriousness brought to the role are essential here as it helps one invest in the proceedings. The switch from fun to emotion and fear are neatly done without overdramatic action.
May Calamawy is a strong woman protagonist in the series, mainly dominated by men. She holds her own whenever the opportunity is given. Her scenes with Oscar Isaac add to the fun and entertainment in general. The final revelation will be further liked by the comic book lovers even if the origins aren’t the same.
Analysis
Mohamed Diab, Aaron Moorhead, and Justin Benson direct the series created by Jeremy Slater. It is based on the Marvel Comics character Moon Knight.
Given the number of superhero outings one has been dished out over the last decade, there is hardly any surprise in the space. Moon Knight is the latest addition to the long list. What separates it from the others is the background and the superhero itself.
The initial episodes feel rushed as one can sense that the makers are not trying to waste time in getting going. They introduce a lot of elements at the same. One thing after the other flows thick and fast making one dazed and confused. It is to the credit of Oscar Isaac and his performance that things are held firmly and grounded despite a lot happening.
Things settle down a little in the second episode when we are introduced to the basic concept and the setup involving the Egyptian Gods. The whole conversation between Steven Grant and Arthur Horrow is well done and makes one involved in the proceedings. The following action makes sense, and there is the superhero fun in play once we know the stakes.
The story then shifts to Egypt, invoking the classic Indiana Jones feel. However, it is a mixed bag here as some parts are well done within the routine space, but there are sequences which stretch needlessly and bring a messy feeling.
The entire flashback stretch is one such long block which is a make or break deal. One will be okay with the whole series and like it if the ‘flashback’ portions click and the emotions connect. Moon Knight might be another routine superhero outing with a new hero at the centre if that is not the case.
The ending is again on predictable lines with some tacky special effects. Still, the whole thing maintains the balance between fun and intrigue. The ending, in this regard, is well done and makes one look forward to the next season.
Overall, Moon Knight has a good cast and a terrific lead to hold things together despite the usual save-the-world superhero stuff. If you are a Marvel fan or avid comic lover, do watch it, others can give it a try, but be prepared to be bored in parts.
Other Artists?
Ethan Hawke is the main antagonist of the series. He plays his part as an evil cult leader well. He goes about the proceedings calmly and nonchalantly. Apart from him, Khonsu stands out mainly due to the characterisation and voice by F Murray Abraham. The rest of the actors have minimal roles.
Music and Other Departments?
Hesham Nazih provides the background score, which samples the sound from films set in a similar setting. There is a generic vibe from the music itself, and it creeps into the narrative as well. Gregory Middleton and Andrew Droz Palermo’s cinematography is decent, with some excellent parts. The visual effects could have been done better. Cedric Nairn-Smith, Joan Sobel, and Ahmed Hafez work as the editors. They do a fine job altogether. The writing is where the whole thing turns generic as the attempt is to simplify the complexity.
Highlights?
Oscar Isaac
Setting
Thrills
Drawbacks?
Convoluted Narrative In Parts
Rushed Beginning
Predictable Story
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes, In Parts
Will You Recommend It?
Yes, But With Reservations
Moon Knight Web Series Review by Binged Bureau
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