Review: “Legion”

By: Ashton Newton
Entertainment Editor

Marvel’s plan to take over the world has been well-executed so far. In both film and television, Marvel has continually put out great content and the newest TV show “Legion” is no different.

Currently in its first season, FX’s “Legion” follows the Marvel comics character David Haller as he begins to learn that his lifelong mental illness is, in fact, his strong mutant abilities.

The first two episodes of “Legion” started the series off on a fantastic note. The trailers and promos didn’t reveal many plot details, so viewers were left in the dark until the show premiered.

“Fargo” writer Noah Hawley brings his masterful writing to the show, making viewers question the reality of the situations from start to finish.

The premiere episode follows a nonlinear timeline, so the show has viewers constantly second guessing themselves from start to finish.

The premiere episode also features a fabulously made one-shot action scene. Marvel has played with one-shots in the past, specifically with seasons one and two of “Daredevil” and I think that the one shot in “Legion” takes the cake.

The characters in “Legion” are brought to life by stunning performances. David, played by Dan Stevens, is a relatable, funny and tragic character. Stevens does an excellent job of showing David’s struggles with mental illness and his change as the world around him opens up.

Rachel Keller plays Syd, another patient in the hospital and ally of David. She also does a great job of portraying her character’s mental illness.

The emotional connection between Syd and David is one of the biggest highlights of the first two episodes. They have to work together to adapt their feelings for each other to their illnesses.

After only two episodes, I’m already fully engaged in the lives and struggles of the characters. Between Hawley’s writing and the fantastic lead performances, “Legion” is one of the best new shows around. Still early in the season, now is the perfect time to start watching.

Catch “Legion” on FX every Wednesday at 10 p.m.

Contact the author at journalentertainment@wou.edu