This week’s episode of Agatha All Along, called “Familiar by Thy Side,” looks back at how Billy Maximoff (played by Joe Locke) was brought back to life.
After the ending of WandaVision, Billy’s soul escaped and took over the body of William Kaplan in a traumatic way. Billy then starts to learn about his origins.
This search leads him to Ralph Bohner (Evan Peters), who is not doing well, and eventually to Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn).
Now that Agatha All Along has shared its big secret, many wonder how Billy returned to life and how it connects to his new powers.
The answers are found in the history of the Scarlet Witch’s children, which involves demons, changing reality, and a superhero team or two. This story is quite complicated, so Agatha All Along’s showrunner, Jac Schaeffer, and her team of writers had to simplify things for the series.
Billy and Tommy Maximoff’s Comic Birth and Rebirth Involved Demons and a Reality Shift
Billy Maximoff and his twin brother, Tommy, were born in Vision & Scarlet Witch #12, created by Steve Englehart and Richard Howell. Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch, loved the Vision but wanted a family. With her mutant powers to change reality, she gave birth to twin boys.
What Wanda did not know was that she took souls from the demon Mephisto to create her sons, and Mephisto wanted those souls back. One of his agents, Master Pandemonium, eventually takes back Billy and Tommy’s souls. To help Wanda, Agatha Harkness wipes her memory of the twins.
During this story, Billy and Tommy briefly come back to life but disappear again when Doctor Strange defeats Wanda in a magical battle.
After Avengers: Disassembled, Bendis and Olivier Coipel continue the story in House of M. In this tale, Wanda’s brother, Pietro, who is also known as Quicksilver, convinces her to use her powers to create a world where their father, Magneto, rules over mutants.
However, when Wolverine and other heroes start to remember the real world and want to destroy the House of M, Wanda declares, “No more mutants!” This strips many mutants of their powers. What Wanda did not know was that her sons were reborn, and she had already met one of them.
Wiccan and Speed Join the Young Avengers
Billy Maximoff is reborn as William “Billy” Kaplan. He grows up loving the Avengers and dreams of being a hero. One day, he encounters the Scarlet Witch outside the gates of Avengers Mansion after a fight with some bullies. She encourages him to stand up for himself.
The next day, Billy stands up to a bully, but his hidden powers of changing reality awaken. This almost kills the bully. After this incident, Billy works hard to control his powers.
Still from Agatha All Along (Credit: Disney)
After the Avengers disband, Billy gets a chance to be a hero. Iron Lad, a mysterious young hero, recruits Billy, Elijah Bradley (the grandson of Black super-soldier Isaiah Bradley), and Teddy Altman (a shapeshifter) to form the Young Avengers.
The team quickly grows to include Kate Bishop, who takes on Clint Barton’s name of Hawkeye, Cassie Lang, who inherits her father Scott’s size-changing powers, and a young version of the Vision.
Tommy Shepard, who is known as Speed and can run very fast, also joins the team.
Billy is shocked when he sees how much he looks like Tommy. They soon realize that they are both the Scarlet Witch’s sons, reincarnated.
In this story, the Young Avengers search for the Scarlet Witch. During their journey, Billy and Tommy meet their grandfather, Magneto, and learn that Wanda is alive but does not remember her past actions. They also find out that she was set to marry Doctor Doom!
How ‘Agatha All Along’ and ‘WandaVision’ Streamline a Complicated Origin
Like many projects in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, WandaVision and Agatha All Along take stories from the comics and simplify them. Both Billy and Tommy are born just like in the comics, but in the series, they disappear when Wanda ends her hex in Westview.
Billy’s return to life also happens differently. William Kaplan is in a serious car accident, and during this event, Billy’s spirit enters William’s body. Unlike in the comics, Billy is aware of who he is, and his powers activate immediately, allowing him to read minds.
Many elements of Billy’s comic character are kept in the series. For example, he has a Jewish background and is in a loving gay relationship. Billy’s goals have also shifted. In the comics, he is searching for his mother.
However, in “Familiar by Thy Side,” he confesses that he wants to find Tommy because he feels that his brother is out there somewhere. This hints that the Marvel Cinematic Universe may adapt the Young Avengers story in the future, as many members of the team have appeared in either Marvel Studios or Marvel Television projects.
As Agatha All Along progresses, it may even tease the location of Speed. With the upcoming series VisionQuest, which will show more about the aftermath of WandaVision, it is clear that the Maximoff family will continue to play a significant role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The Complicated Relationships of the Maximoff Family
The relationships within the Maximoff family are complex and filled with emotional struggles. Wanda Maximoff, as the mother of Billy and Tommy, has faced immense challenges throughout her life. Her powers, while extraordinary, have also caused pain and loss.
The trauma of losing her children, even if they are eventually reborn, affects her deeply. Wanda’s journey is marked by her desire for family and love, but her powers create obstacles that often lead to tragedy.
Billy and Tommy, on the other hand, face their own challenges. As young heroes, they deal with the expectations of being the children of the powerful Scarlet Witch. They also face the struggles of understanding their identities and powers.
Billy, in particular, grapples with the weight of his abilities and what it means to be part of a legacy that is both heroic and tragic. The connection between the brothers is strong, and their desire to reunite reflects the bond they share, despite the difficulties they have faced.
Billy’s Journey of Self-Discovery
Billy’s journey is not just about finding his brother; it is also about discovering who he is as a person and a hero. As he develops his powers, he learns to control them and use them for good. His experiences with the Young Avengers help him grow and understand the responsibility that comes with being a superhero. He learns that being a hero is not just about having powers but also about making choices that reflect his values and beliefs.
Billy’s identity as a Jewish character in the Marvel Universe adds another layer to his journey. He grapples with his cultural heritage and what it means to him personally. This aspect of his character allows for representation within the superhero genre, showcasing the diversity of experiences that exist in the world. It highlights the importance of identity and belonging in the lives of young heroes like Billy and Tommy.
The Role of Agatha Harkness
Agatha Harkness plays a crucial role in both WandaVision and Agatha All Along. She is a complex character who has a deep understanding of magic and the supernatural. Her interactions with Wanda and Billy reveal much about their powers and the nature of reality in the Marvel Universe. Agatha serves as both a mentor and an antagonist, guiding Wanda while also challenging her.
In “Familiar by Thy Side,” Agatha’s relationship with Billy becomes more significant. As he learns about his origins and powers, Agatha acts as a bridge between his past and present. She provides insights into the complexities of their abilities and the dangers they face. Agatha’s presence adds depth to the story, showing how past actions can affect the future and how characters must confront their histories to move forward.
The Significance of Family in the MCU
Family is a central theme in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and the story of the Maximoff family is no exception. The struggles, losses, and reunions within the family reflect broader themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. Wanda’s desire for a family leads her down a path filled with both joy and sorrow. Her journey highlights the importance of connections and the impact of family ties on individual identity.
Still from Agatha All Along (Credit: Disney)
Billy and Tommy’s story also emphasizes the significance of family. Their bond as brothers drives their actions and decisions. The desire to find each other and understand their origins reflects the universal quest for belonging and connection. In the superhero context, this theme resonates strongly, as many heroes grapple with their roles within their families and the world.
Setting Up for Future Stories
As Agatha All Along unfolds, it sets the stage for potential future storylines within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The views of Billy’s powers, the search for Tommy, and the complicated dynamics within the Maximoff family hint at larger narratives that could emerge. With characters like Speed and Wiccan being introduced, fans speculate about the formation of the Young Avengers and the adventures they may go on together.
Additionally, the relationship between the Maximoffs and other heroes in the MCU opens up possibilities for team-ups and conflicts. The upcoming series, VisionQuest, promises to goes deeper into the fallout from goes deeper into WandaVision, potentially leading to more significant interactions and developments for the Maximoff family.
Fan Reactions and Theories
The release of Agatha All Along has sparked various fan reactions and theories about the direction of the story. Many viewers express excitement about the possibilities that lie ahead for Billy, Tommy, and Wanda. The connections to the Young Avengers have fans theorizing about how these characters might come together in future films or series.
Social media platforms are buzzing with discussions about the potential for new characters to be introduced and the implications of Billy’s resurrection. Fans are eager to see how the story unfolds and how the Maximoff family will show their complex history while facing new challenges.
Conclusion
The journey of Billy Maximoff, from his resurrection in Agatha All Along to his scheme of identity and powers, is a compelling narrative within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
It showcases themes of family, loss, and self-discovery while setting the stage for future stories. As viewers continue to engage with the series, the impact of the Maximoff family’s journey will resonate deeply within the larger Marvel narrative.
In the end, Billy’s story reflects the power of hope and the importance of connections. Whether it is finding his brother, understanding his powers, or showing his identity, Billy’s journey is one of growth and resilience. As the MCU continues to evolve, the Maximoff family will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of its stories.
New episodes of Agatha All Along are released on Wednesdays at 9 PM ET on Disney+ in the U.S.
Memoir of a Snail is not a spin-off of Diary of a Worm, despite what its title might suggest. Although it is a stop-motion animated film, it is definitely not meant for children. If you expect something like Wallace & Gromit, you will be surprised.
This film is the first by director Adam Elliot in over 15 years. Fans of his previous film, Mary and Max, will know to prepare for an emotional ride.
The movie deals with heavy themes like mental illness, sexuality, religious extremism, body image issues, alcoholism, and death. It is not for those who want something light. But those who stay will discover one of the year’s most beautiful films.
What Is Memoir of a Snail About?
The story follows a character named Grace Pudel, voiced by Sarah Snook. At the beginning of the film, Grace is mourning the loss of her elderly friend, Pinky, voiced by Jacki Weaver. Pinky is a free-spirited woman who played an important role in Grace’s life.
After Pinky passes away, Grace feels a deep sense of loss. She decides to set her beloved pet snails free, a significant act that symbolizes her wish to let go and find new beginnings.
As she releases the snails, Grace starts telling her pet snail, Sylvia, her life story. This storytelling serves as a way for Grace to process her emotions and share her experiences.
Grace’s backstory is heavy and complex. She shares that her mother died while giving birth to her and her twin brother, Gilbert. Their father, Percy, is left to care for them. However, Percy has his struggles. He is paraplegic and an alcoholic, which adds challenges to their family life.
Despite these tough circumstances, Grace and Gilbert find happiness in their bond with each other and their father. Percy, even though he struggles with alcoholism, shows love for his children.
Gilbert is especially protective of Grace. He stands up to the schoolyard bullies who tease her about her cleft lip. He fights for his sister, showing his deep love for her. Gilbert has dreams of becoming a street performer, just like their father used to be.
Grace, on the other hand, inherits her mother’s fascination with snails. She collects snail-related items whenever she can. Her passion for snails represents a connection to her mother and a way to cope with her grief.
However, the family’s happiness does not last. After Percy dies unexpectedly in his sleep, Grace and Gilbert are placed into the foster care system.
This leads to a painful separation, forcing them to move to different parts of Australia. Grace is placed with a pair of childless swingers in the suburbs. They are kind but seem more interested in their own lifestyle than in caring for Grace.
In this new home, Grace finds solace in her memories of Pinky. She feels a strong connection to Pinky, who always seemed to have a positive outlook on life despite facing many tragedies. In contrast, Gilbert ends up with a family of strict religious fruit farmers.
They impose their beliefs on him, even making him tape magnets to his skin to protect himself from “bad auras.” This forced lifestyle adds to Gilbert’s struggles, and the separation from his sister weighs heavily on both of them.
Memoir of a Snail Finds Joy Within Darkness
Memoir of a Snail is a somber and mature film. Its themes are heavy, but they are balanced with moments of light-heartedness. Director Adam Elliot finds ways to inject humor and joy into the film. For instance, Pinky has her own funny adventures that bring a smile to the audience.
Additionally, the characters, Grace, Gilbert, and Percy, are often seen reading amusing books, including some with silly pirate-themed titles. These small, funny moments provide relief from the heavier themes.
The film’s tone feels genuine and unpretentious. Unlike other adult animated films that can seem overly artsy, Memoir of a Snail feels grounded. It does not feel juvenile, either. Elliot shows deep care for the characters, and he avoids making their lives a constant struggle.
While the film deals with serious issues, it never becomes overly melodramatic. Each scene fits seamlessly into the full story, leaving no moment feeling misplaced.
Even with its heavy themes, Memoir of a Snail is also about hope. It shares a universal message that resonates with many people. By the end of the movie, viewers may feel a sense of relief and optimism. Those who watch it will likely find themselves immersed in the characters’ journeys, feeling their joy and pain.
Memoir of a Snail Is Impeccably Animated
One of the standout features of Memoir of a Snail is its stunning animation. The character designs are beautifully crafted, and while some might see the cute style as childish, it adds depth to the story. The aesthetics draw viewers in and make them more connected to the characters and the world they inhabit.
Sarah Snook’s voice work as Grace is strong throughout the film. At first, it may take a little time to adjust to her performance, but it adds to the movie’s charm. Elliot’s script is almost poetic.
Grace delivers memorable lines like, “Childhood is a lot like being drunk because everyone remembers what you did except you.” These quotes might sound a bit sweet, but they enhance the emotional weight of the story.
Snook’s performance is one of the best voice acting performances of the year. She brings deep emotion and sincerity to her character. It never feels like she is just reading lines; she pours her heart into Grace. This connection amplifies the film’s impact.
Elliot’s stop-motion animation feels real and raw in ways that many mainstream animated films do not. The color palette is more muted, with shades of grey and beige dominating the visuals. This choice perfectly aligns with the film’s intimate tone. While it lacks the bright colors of other animated films, it does not feel dull. Instead, it creates a sense of a lived-in world that feels authentic.
The score by Elena Kats-Chernin is another highlight of the film. The music, especially the piano pieces, fits the movie’s tender and grounded approach. The story is largely told through letters exchanged between Grace and Gilbert. The score enhances this storytelling, giving it even more personality. The music almost feels like another character in the film, supporting the emotional depth of their connection.
A Powerful Scheme of Life’s Challenges
Memoir of a Snail stands out as one of the best animated films of the year. In 2024, many animated films have captured audiences’ hearts, from DreamWorks’ The Wild Robot to Pixar’s Inside Out 2. Yet, Memoir of a Snail carves its own place in this lineup. It is not just one of the best animated films; it is one of the best films full this year.
The movie tackles real-life challenges that many people face. From loss to addiction to personal growth, it addresses difficult subjects that many can relate to.
Its storytelling connects deeply with viewers, encouraging them to reflect on their own experiences. By the end, even the most cynical viewers might find their hearts softened.
The film is a testament to the power of animation. It proves that animated films can tackle serious themes while still resonating with audiences. It shows that animation is not just for children. Instead, it can be a powerful medium for storytelling that addresses adult themes.
A Lasting Impact on Viewers
After watching Memoir of a Snail, viewers may feel changed. The film encourages people to think about hope and resilience in their own lives. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, there is room for joy and connection. Grace’s journey of sharing her story serves as a reminder of the healing power of storytelling.
As Grace shares her experiences with Sylvia, she also finds ways to cope with her grief. Her relationship with her brother Gilbert, despite their separation, highlights the importance of family bonds. Their love and support for each other is a strong message about staying connected, even when life gets tough.
Still from Memoir of a Snail (Credit: IFC)
The film’s ability to blend humor with sadness makes it a unique viewing experience. It creates a space where audiences can laugh and cry at the same time. This balance is challenging to achieve, but Elliot does it with skill. He shows that life is not just about the heavy moments; it is also about celebrating the small joys.
A Must-See Film
Memoir of a Snail is a beautifully crafted film that goes beyond the usual animation genre. Its deep themes, stunning visuals, and powerful performances make it a standout piece of art. Viewers who seek a film that challenges them emotionally will find much to appreciate here.
As the film screened at the 2024 Heartland International Film Festival, it has already gained recognition.
It premieres in select theaters on October 25, 2024. This film is one that many will want to experience, especially those who appreciate storytelling that touches the heart.
In the end, Memoir of a Snail is more than just an animated film. It is a reflection on life, love, and the importance of hope.
It reminds us all to find joy, even when faced with darkness. Those who take the time to watch it will likely walk away feeling moved and inspired, making it a must-see for 2024.
