"WandaVision" is a television series produced by Marvel Studios for Disney+ and follows the story of Wanda Maximoff (Scarlet Witch) and Vision, set in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Episode 1 of the series pays homage to classic sitcoms from different eras, particularly the 1950s and 1960s.
In Episode 1, titled "Filmed Before a Live Studio Audience," Wanda and Vision are living a seemingly idyllic suburban life in the style of classic black-and-white sitcoms like "I Love Lucy" and "The Dick Van Dyke Show." During this episode, there is a brief scene where the couple has a commercial for a Stark Industries toaster.
The significance of the toaster commercial lies in its subtle hints and references to the traumatic events in Wanda Maximoff's past. Let's break it down:
Stark Industries: The toaster being a product of Stark Industries is significant because Tony Stark, the billionaire inventor and superhero known as Iron Man, was indirectly responsible for the creation of Wanda and her brother Pietro's powers. This happened in "Avengers: Age of Ultron" when they were exposed to the Mind Stone, which granted them their abilities. The mention of Stark Industries in the commercial serves as a reminder of Wanda's connection to that company and her tragic past.
Tick-Tock Sound: As the toaster begins toasting, a distinctive ticking sound becomes more pronounced. This ticking sound is reminiscent of a bomb or a time bomb, alluding to another traumatic event in Wanda's past. During her childhood in Sokovia, her parents were killed by a bomb that had a similar ticking sound before it exploded. This tragedy left a lasting impact on Wanda's life and influenced her character's development.
Beeping Red Light: As the ticking sound continues, a red light starts flashing on the toaster. The color red is often associated with Wanda's powers and her connection to the Mind Stone, which gave her reality-warping abilities. The flashing red light serves as a visual cue to hint at the control Wanda might have over her current reality.
Overall, the toaster commercial is a clever and symbolic way of providing viewers with subtle insights into Wanda's past and the trauma she has endured. The series "WandaVision" explores themes of grief, loss, and the lengths one would go to cope with such emotions, and this commercial is just one example of how the show weaves these elements into its unique storytelling approach.