The seventh episode of What If...? Season 2 presents a fascinating alternate reality where Hela, the Asgardian goddess of death, finds herself in an entirely new world: Earth's medieval China. This bold reimagining of Hela's story provides a fresh twist on both the Thor and Shang-Chi mythologies, blending these two universes in a way that feels entirely organic, yet thrillingly new.
When Odin exiles Hela to Earth instead of imprisoning her in Hel, her journey leads her to a fateful encounter with Xu Wenwu, the formidable leader of the Ten Rings. The chemistry between Hela and Wenwu is immediately palpable, as their shared lust for power forms a strong foundation for their partnership. Wenwu's decision to try and woo Hela is a brilliant narrative choice, showcasing the complex character of the Ten Rings leader, who, despite his ruthless nature, is out of his depth against Hela's godly might.
The episode continues with Hela's search for power, leading her to the mythical land of Ta Lo, where she meets Jiayi, a character who attempts to steer Hela away from her bloodthirsty tendencies. However, Hela's insatiable desire for conquest proves too powerful to be quenched by Jiayi's pleas. Hela's journey ultimately takes her back into the arms of Wenwu, and together they form an alliance that could shift the balance of power across the Nine Realms and beyond.
The animation in this episode is stunning, with vibrant colors and visually captivating action sequences that make the interactions between Hela and Wenwu truly spectacular. The Ten Rings themselves are showcased as more than mere weapons of destruction; they become symbols of power and unity that fuel the creation of an empire far more formidable than anything seen before.
Cate Blanchett's return to voice Hela is a real highlight, as she imbues the character with a layer of nuance and empathy rarely seen in her previous appearances. The dynamic between her and Wenwu (voiced by Feodor Chin) is compelling, giving us a glimpse of what could have been if the two had been allies rather than enemies.
While the episode does explore themes of power, empire-building, and the consequences of unchecked ambition, it also brings a fresh perspective to familiar characters. Hela's character arc in this alternate timeline feels both inevitable and tragic, as her quest for dominance leads her down a path of destruction and ultimately alienates her from any hope of redemption.
Ultimately, What If... Hela Found the Ten Rings? Is an exhilarating, thought-provoking exploration of an alternate timeline that offers new depths to the characters we thought we knew. The episode's blend of Thor and Shang-Chi elements provides a fresh and exciting perspective, and the dynamic between Hela and Wenwu makes for one of the most engaging What If...? Scenarios to date.
