“What If… Happy Hogan Saved Christmas?” is a delightful, chaotic ride through holiday hijinks with a surprising number of nods to the broader Marvel Cinematic Universe and beyond, hinting at potential future storylines and celebrating beloved characters in unexpected ways. The episode’s easter eggs range from subtle visual cues to overt references, offering a treasure trove for eagle-eyed viewers to uncover and dissect, solidifying its place as a memorable entry in the What If…? series.
A Christmas Cracker Full of MCU Goodies
This episode, far from being a simple standalone Christmas special, is strategically peppered with references that connect it to the larger tapestry of the MCU. The central premise of Happy Hogan stepping up to defend Avengers Tower while the Avengers are indisposed is, in itself, a twist on the familiar trope of unlikely heroes saving the day. The real fun lies in spotting the blink-and-you’ll-miss-them easter eggs hidden within the festive chaos.
Obvious and Not-So-Obvious References
One of the most apparent nods is the return of Justin Hammer, voiced by Sam Rockwell. His hammy villainy and outdated technology are played for laughs, but his presence also serves as a reminder of the legacy of Stark Industries and the recurring threat of its potential misuse.
Beyond Hammer, there are several background details that warrant attention. Keep an eye out for:
- Stark Industries’ projects on display: The episode is filled with inventions and prototypes, some of which might be revisited in future MCU installments.
- Mention of specific characters: Even brief mentions of characters like Tony Stark or Pepper Potts solidify the episode’s connection to the mainline MCU timeline.
- Visual gags: Look closely at the decorations and props for subtle references to past Marvel events or characters.
The Potential for Future Stories
While many easter eggs are simply fun callbacks, some hint at potential directions for future episodes or even full-blown storylines. The inclusion of certain technologies or characters, even in a comedic context, opens the door for exploring their ramifications in more serious scenarios. Specifically, the technology Hammer employs and its potential evolution presents a significant threat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What is the biggest easter egg in this episode and why?
The biggest easter egg is arguably the introduction of a highly advanced, yet strangely outdated, Hammer Industries robot army. While seemingly comical, these robots represent a potential avenue for future villains to exploit. Their appearance hints at a darker, more dangerous evolution of Hammer’s technology, potentially impacting the wider MCU in unexpected ways, even across the multiverse. It also showcases Hammer’s enduring ambition and willingness to innovate, even if those innovations are hilariously flawed.
FAQ 2: How does this episode connect to the broader MCU continuity (if at all)?
While What If…? is inherently non-canon, it borrows heavily from established MCU lore. This episode reinforces existing character relationships, such as Happy’s loyalty to the Stark family, and acknowledges past events, like the conflict with Justin Hammer. Furthermore, it establishes a plausible alternative scenario where different individuals rise to the occasion, highlighting the diverse potential of the MCU’s heroes and villains.
FAQ 3: Did I see a reference to Iron Man’s past suits in Avengers Tower?
Yes, keen-eyed viewers may spot what appear to be early Iron Man suit prototypes displayed in Avengers Tower. These are more than just set dressing; they represent Tony Stark’s ingenuity and the constant evolution of his technology. Their presence serves as a visual reminder of Stark’s legacy and the challenges of maintaining such advanced tech.
FAQ 4: Who is the voice actor for Justin Hammer and why is he so familiar?
Justin Hammer is voiced by Sam Rockwell, who also played the character in Iron Man 2. This continuity in casting adds authenticity and elevates the episode, providing fans with a comforting connection to the established character. Rockwell’s performance is crucial to maintaining the character’s distinctive personality and humor, making his return a major highlight.
FAQ 5: Is there any indication of other Avengers being aware of the situation at Avengers Tower?
While the episode focuses on Happy’s efforts, there are subtle hints that other Avengers are aware of the situation. Brief mentions of their locations or activities imply a larger network of communication and support. This suggests that even while dealing with their own challenges, they remain connected and ready to assist when needed. The absence of their direct intervention underscores the unique circumstances that necessitate Happy’s unexpected heroism.
FAQ 6: What’s the significance of the Christmas setting beyond just holiday cheer?
The Christmas setting adds a layer of vulnerability to the situation. The festive atmosphere contrasts sharply with the threat posed by Justin Hammer, emphasizing the importance of protecting the innocent and preserving the spirit of the season. It also allows for humorous juxtapositions, such as Happy using Christmas decorations as makeshift weapons, adding to the episode’s overall charm. The vulnerability of the season emphasizes the stakes, making Happy’s success all the more rewarding.
FAQ 7: Did Kraglin, as seen in Guardians of the Galaxy, make an appearance in this episode?
While not explicitly named, a character resembling Kraglin, wielding a Yaka Arrow, makes a cameo. This is a fun nod to the cosmic side of the MCU and hints at the vast network of heroes and allies that exist beyond Earth. The Yaka Arrow’s presence also suggests that even seemingly random encounters can have significant consequences in the wider multiverse.
FAQ 8: Are there any visual references to other Christmas-themed Marvel comics or films?
Yes, the episode incorporates visual cues inspired by classic Christmas stories and holiday specials. The use of warm lighting, snowy landscapes, and festive decorations evokes a sense of nostalgia and familiarity. These visual references add to the episode’s lighthearted tone and create a sense of shared experience with viewers familiar with these holiday tropes.
FAQ 9: What kind of technology does Justin Hammer use in this episode? Is it from his original appearance in Iron Man 2?
Justin Hammer’s technology remains relatively similar to that seen in Iron Man 2, but with some updated (and still hilariously flawed) upgrades. He relies heavily on remote-controlled robots and outdated weaponry. This reinforces his character as a technologically inferior rival to Tony Stark, relying on brute force and quantity over quality. The outdated nature of his tech further emphasizes his comedic role in the episode.
FAQ 10: Does this episode set up any potential future storylines for Happy Hogan or other supporting characters?
The episode showcases Happy’s resourcefulness and bravery, suggesting that he could potentially play a more active role in future MCU storylines, even beyond his role as a bodyguard and confidante. His successful defense of Avengers Tower proves his capabilities and establishes him as a valuable asset. The episode also suggests the potential for exploring the evolving relationships of other supporting characters, like Darcy Lewis, in unexpected ways.
FAQ 11: What Easter Egg is easiest to miss?
One of the easiest easter eggs to miss is a quick shot of a board showing schematics for various Stark Industries projects. These could be references to unreleased or previously scrapped projects.
FAQ 12: What if, season 2 episode 3 easter eggs – were there any to other marvel comics?
While the primary easter eggs point to the MCU films, there are some subtle nods to Marvel comics. The dynamic between Darcy and Happy, for instance, echoes the classic comedic pairings found in many Marvel comics. Additionally, the overall theme of an underdog hero stepping up to save the day is a recurring trope in Marvel’s comic book history. The visual style and humor also borrow from the comic book medium, creating a sense of familiarity and nostalgia for long-time Marvel fans. This blend of film and comic book references creates a rich and layered viewing experience for audiences of all ages.