5 Ways ‘Ms. Marvel’ Aged Poorly (And 5 Ways It Aged Masterfully)

Disney+ introduced ‘Ms. Marvel’ in 2022, bringing Kamala Khan, a vibrant Pakistani-American teen, into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The show’s fresh take on a young superhero balancing family, culture, and powers captured hearts with its charm and bold energy. 

Three years later, in 2025, I’ve rewatched the series and noticed how some parts shine brighter with time, while others feel stuck in the past. Below, I explore five ways ‘Ms. Marvel’ (2022) hasn’t held up and five ways it remains a standout.

Bad: Predictable Villain Arc

The antagonists, like the Clandestines, start with promise but fall flat. Their motives feel vague, and the shift to outright villainy happens too fast, lacking depth. On rewatch, their story feels like a rushed checkbox for conflict, missing the complexity modern audiences expect from Marvel foes.

The Clandestines’ quick betrayal of Kamala leaves little room for emotional weight. Compared to layered villains in shows like ‘Loki’ (2021-2023), their arc feels simplistic and forgettable, making the stakes less engaging over time.

Bad: Overreliance on CGI Spectacle

The show’s heavy use of CGI for Kamala’s powers, like her glowing constructs, looks less impressive in 2025. The effects, while bold in 2022, now seem dated compared to newer Marvel projects with polished visuals. Big action scenes feel more like a video game than a cohesive story.

This reliance on flashy effects overshadows quieter character moments. Rewatching, I wished for more practical effects or creative cinematography to make Kamala’s powers feel grounded and timeless.

Bad: Underdeveloped Supporting Cast

Characters like Kamala’s friend Nakia and her brother Aamir have potential but get sidelined. Their stories feel like afterthoughts, with little growth beyond supporting Kamala’s journey. This limits the show’s emotional depth on rewatch.

For example, Nakia’s mosque storyline hints at rich themes but resolves too quickly. Compared to shows like ‘WandaVision’ (2021), which fleshes out its ensemble, the supporting cast here feels underused and forgettable.

Bad: Formulaic Episode Structure

Each episode follows a similar pattern—Kamala faces a problem, uses her powers, and resolves it with a quip. This predictability makes rewatching less exciting, as the rhythm feels repetitive compared to more dynamic Marvel series like ‘Andor’ (2022).

The formula worked in 2022 but now feels limiting. I wanted more varied pacing or unexpected twists to keep the story fresh and engaging over time.

Bad: Limited MCU Connection

‘Ms. Marvel’ feels isolated from the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe, with few ties to other heroes or events. While its standalone vibe was refreshing, it now risks fading into obscurity as the MCU expands. Kamala’s brief role in ‘The Marvels’ (2023) doesn’t fully bridge this gap.

This disconnect makes the show feel like a side story rather than a vital chapter. On rewatch, I wished for stronger hints of Kamala’s future in the MCU to give it lasting relevance.

Good: Iman Vellani’s Star Power

Iman Vellani as Kamala Khan delivers a performance that still feels electric. Her charm, humor, and vulnerability make every scene pop, carrying the show through weaker moments. Vellani’s natural energy keeps Kamala relatable and timeless.

Her ability to blend teenage awkwardness with superhero confidence shines on rewatch. It’s no surprise she’s become a fan favorite, anchoring the show’s heart.

Good: Cultural Representation

The show’s portrayal of Pakistani-American culture, from family dynamics to mosque scenes, remains a highlight. It weaves Kamala’s heritage into her superhero journey with authenticity, offering a fresh perspective rarely seen in superhero stories.

This focus feels even more vital in 2025, as diverse storytelling continues to resonate. The wedding scenes and cultural details make rewatching a joy, grounding the show in real emotion.

Good: Comic Book Vibes

‘Ms. Marvel’ captures the playful spirit of Kamala’s comics with vibrant visuals and quirky animations. The colorful aesthetic and comic-style transitions still feel fresh, echoing the source material’s energy while standing out in the MCU.

This bold style holds up against newer shows, making it a fun rewatch. It’s a love letter to comic fans that doesn’t feel dated.

Good: Kamala’s Coming-of-Age Story

Kamala’s journey as a teen balancing school, family, and powers remains relatable. Her struggles with identity and responsibility hit universal notes, making her growth compelling even years later. The emotional core of her arc feels timeless.

Rewatching, I connected with her small victories, like standing up to her parents. This grounded storytelling keeps the show engaging and heartfelt.

Good: Empowering Themes

The show’s focus on Kamala finding her strength as a young woman of color still resonates. Her confidence grows through challenges, delivering a message of self-acceptance that feels universal. This empowerment angle avoids feeling preachy and stays inspiring.

In 2025, these themes feel more relevant than ever. Kamala’s journey as a hero for a new generation continues to uplift and inspire on rewatch.

What’s your take on ‘Ms. Marvel’—which moments still shine for you, or what feels off? Share your thoughts in the comments!s