“Echo” is a series that continues the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) into its 5th phase, following the tenth series produced by Marvel Studios since “WandaVision” (2021). This five-episode series has an average duration of 35 minutes and features Alaqua Cox, Chaske Spencer, Tantoo Cardinal, Devery Jacobs, Zahn McClarnon, Cody Lightning, Graham Greene, and Vincent D’Onofrio. With the recent success of “What If…?” in its second season, can “Echo” set a positive trend for the MCU?
The plot picks up directly from the “Hawkeye” (2021) series, depicting the aftermath of Maya Lopez (Cox) shooting her adopted father, Kingpin alias Wilson Fisk (D’Onofrio). Intent on dismantling Fisk’s business empire at its roots, Maya returns to her hometown of Tamaha, Oklahoma, unwittingly bringing trouble to the small town where her relatives and old friends reside.
The series begins with a concise exposition, swiftly developing Maya’s character through flashbacks and her current challenges. Some moments showcase Maya’s encounters with other superhero figures, Daredevil and Clint Barton/Ronin. The narrative then delves into how Maya reacts to criminals, interspersed with subplots involving her cousin Bonnie and grandmother Chula, as well as the absurdly presented stories of her ancestors, leading to an anticipated resolution.
However, the exposition is concise to the detriment of Maya’s chemistry with Bonnie and Chula and her past with Kingpin. This becomes the primary issue with the plot, leaving numerous unresolved elements in the climax, including the intervention of the ancestors. Even Maya’s supernatural powers appear ordinary, lacking the expected uniqueness. The actions feel somewhat repetitive, lacking a distinct impact.
Despite its cultural background and local nuances, “Echo” falls short of providing a resonant echo for the series or the MCU. A lingering question arises regarding the connection between the same Indian tribe and the character Kakhori from “What If…?” In contrast to Kakhori’s standout episode, “Echo” misses the opportunity to integrate native local culture as a crucial element of the MCU story. Instead, it portrays the story of a strong woman that seems to fulfill a mere quota on the streaming platform, with minimal emphasis on local culture appearing more as a formality.
