VisionQuest is a Worthy, If Occasionally Stumbling, Existential Drama
VisionQuest is a slow burn for superhero fans that prefers grounded narratives focused on identity rather than large scale destruction. It presents the self-conscious journey of an artificial being which gives it humanity. However, in doing so, the series derails with many frustrating narrative choices that may have some viewers feeling it lacks focus. Its strongest element lies in how it explores the existence of beings with artificial intelligence that sets it apart from other superhero series.
The Weight of Artificial Humanity
Paul Bettany anchors the series as the Vision. While exploring the series’ main plot point of an artificial intelligence experiencing an existential crisis as it wants to be more than what it was designed to be, the series tackles the philosophical question of what constitutes a soul? The series excels when it explores the relationship between Vision and Ultron and the desire for both to extend beyond their programming. It shows the audience what it means for both of them to want to survive.
The series falters when it fails to balance the exploration of a high concept sci-fi idea with a grounded drama. It unnecessarily pads run time with cryptic scenes, making one wonder if the script is actually slowing things down to meet the episode count. Ideally, both story and concept of the series should extend beyond its limitations, however, this is seldom the case.
A Divergent Take on the Android Narrative
While most critics praise the show for its emotional resonance, I find a greater disparity. The show certainly explores what lies beneath the robot, and many critics have lauded it for doing so. However, the viewer experience reveals a narrative burdened by its own mythology. The show thrives when it abandons the constraints of the franchise and allows the visceral impact of the main characters’ struggle to drive the narrative.
There is a significant contradiction between the show’s over-arching thematic concerns and the logistical leaps in consistency from one episode to the next. Several scenes feel as though they are self-admittedly devoid of any real substance other than advancing a character to a new location. There are many profoundly excellent moments of self-discovery in this series, unfortunately they are often interrupted by drawn out and un-necessary action scenes. This creates a strange study in contrasting styles.
Who Should Invest Their Evening
This series will appeal to the type of audience who is more drawn into a story for the development of the characters rather than for the advancement of the plot. There are character arcs worthy of unpacking and appreciating in this show for those obsessed with the character evolution of Vision. The show does a good job of shedding some light on his past, which is much needed and appreciated.
However, those who are more perceptive to the flow of the story will find this quite the languid endeavor. This is a patient watch. For all the emotional pay off, this is a meandering show and lends itself to unrelated side plots.
