Marvel’s latest series, Ironheart, which concluded its run today, offers a compelling look at one of the MCU’s brightest new minds. The show follows the brilliant MIT student Riri Williams (Dominique Thorne) as she returns to her hometown of Chicago following the events of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Determined to build a suit of armour that rivals Tony Stark’s, she is quickly drawn into a dangerous conflict that pits her technological genius against the dark, mystical power of a criminal known as The Hood.
Dominique Thorne carries the series with a charismatic performance, perfectly capturing Riri’s blend of bravado, intelligence, and the vulnerability she carries from past traumas. The show excels when it focuses on these character-driven moments and its street-level stakes. However, the most significant talking point is the long-awaited introduction of a major figure from the wider Marvel universe, whose sinister machinations open up a fascinating and dark new corner of the MCU. This satisfyingly expands the franchise’s lore, creating a unique and intriguing conflict between technology and magic.
A standout element of the series is its killer soundtrack. The vibrant and well-curated selection of music injects a powerful energy into every episode, expertly complementing both the high-octane action sequences and the more intimate, emotional beats.
Airing over just two weeks, the six-episode series moves at a brisk pace. For the most part, this short format packs a punch, delivering a concise story without unnecessary filler. However, this rushed pacing contributes to a finale that, while packed with game-changing events, feels slightly unfulfilling.
Ultimately, Ironheart stands as another solid Marvel series that successfully carves out its own identity. Despite a conclusion that leaves you wanting more and a few underdeveloped character arcs due to its short runtime, the show’s engaging lead, bold narrative swings, and unique blend of street-level action with supernatural horror make it a noteworthy and exciting addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.