Marvel’s latest Disney+ series, Ironheart, has officially landed—and while it introduces a compelling new heroine, its overall reception has been lukewarm. We liked the three episodes that we screened. It doesn’t crash and burn like some of Marvel’s recent television misfires, but it doesn’t soar either.
So, where does Ironheart land among the Marvel Studios TV canon? Somewhere in the lower-middle tier, with flashes of promise that never quite reach their potential.
Critical Response
Dominique Thorne, reprising her role as teen inventor Riri Williams, is widely praised for her performance. She brings charm, intelligence, and emotional weight to the role, grounding the show with authenticity and heart. Her dynamic with the supporting cast, particularly Lyric Ross, provides some of the show’s most grounded moments.
But strong performances can only go so far. Critics and audiences alike have pointed to inconsistent pacing, an underwhelming villain, and an uneven blend of tech and mysticism as major shortcomings. Ironheart aims to explore the tension between science and magic, but the thematic execution often feels muddled or shallow.
Ratings and Rankings
Ironheart currently holds a score of around 70% on Rotten Tomatoes, with audience ratings tracking just below that. It ranks above Echo and Secret Invasion—both widely regarded as Marvel’s weakest Disney+ entries—but falls well short of top-tier series like WandaVision, Loki, and Ms. Marvel.
Here’s a snapshot of where Ironheart stands among the MCU’s Disney+ offerings:
Top Tier
- WandaVision
- Agatha All Along
- Daredevil
- Hawkeye
Mid Tier
- Ms. Marvel
- The Falcon and the Winter Soldier
- Ironheart
Lower Tier
- She-Hulk
- Echo
- Secret Invasion
While not a total misfire, Ironheart doesn’t break new ground or distinguish itself creatively the way some of Marvel’s earlier streaming efforts did. But it’s nowhere near as unwatchable as She-Hulk, Moon Knight or Secret Invasion.
Strengths and Shortcomings
What Works:
- Dominique Thorne is magnetic in the lead role and proves she can carry a series.
- The Chicago setting gives the show a more grounded, lived-in vibe.
- The finale offers the most cohesive episode of the season and delivers an emotional payoff.
What Doesn’t:
- The series struggles to find a consistent tone.
- The central conflict lacks urgency and a compelling antagonist.
- The show sometimes feels more like a franchise obligation than a focused, standalone narrative.
Final Verdict
Ironheart is a solid showcase for Dominique Thorne and a decent origin for a next-generation Marvel hero. But the show lacks the boldness and creative vision of Marvel’s strongest TV entries. For fans eager to follow Riri Williams’ journey, it’s worth watching. For those hoping for Marvel’s television renaissance, it may feel like another missed opportunity.
Reel Chicago Rating: B
Watchable, but forgettable. A promising lead performance trapped in a story still trying to find its spark.
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