3) Scarlet Witch Owning It
The Scarlet Witch is a pivotal character in the comics, so there was a lot of speculation about her portrayal in Avengers: Age of Ultron prior to the film’s release. Elizabeth Olsen had proven herself to be a capable actress in smaller productions such as Martha Marcy May Marlene, but aside from Godzilla, the young performer had little experience in blockbuster roles.
Although the Scarlet Witch is an intriguing character from her first appearance in the film’s opening scene, she exists initially as a living weapon, one that is controlled and manipulated by those around her. Soon after she escapes Baron von Strucker’s confinement, the Scarlet Witch is immediately enlisted to fight the Avengers on Ultron’s behalf. Eventually, Captain America helps advise Wanda on how to use her abilities to protect others, but it’s not until Hawkeye tells her straight what the deal is that the Scarlet Witch finally becomes the kickass Avenger fans know and love.
Upon emerging from her hiding spot, the Scarlet Witch throws hex bolts left, right and centre, not even bothering to look at her targets in that ridiculously unrealistic, but badass way all the best action heroes do. By the film’s end, it becomes clear that the Scarlet Witch could in fact be the most powerful Avenger of all.
