While the previous Marvel Disney+ series have focused on those could consider side characters in the bigger films, "Moon Knight" marks the first where the main protagonist is being introduced to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. From a first glance, Moon Knight has been compared to Batman, but dressed in white and with even deeper mental issues. He's a very complex but cool character, so it makes sense that his Disney+ series matches up.
The best way to describe "Moon Knight" is a mix of psychological character study and treasure hunting adventure with supernatural elements. While the latter is done well (if a bit slow at times) and adds more to the MCU's mythos, it's the former where the series truly shines thanks to the lead, Oscar Isaac. For a character with split personality, Isaac does a brilliant job bringing both Marc Spector and Steven Grant to life in such a way that I sometimes forget it's the same actor even when they share the screen at the same time; and in that regard, I have to give props to the special effects team for making said scenes seamless. As the two personalities conflict early in the season, I found myself siding with both at different times where I'm either going "Marc, stop messing with Steven's life" or "Steven, don't get in Marc's way". It's very rewarding by the time they get on the same page, becoming like brothers, and after we learn of their complex and heartbreaking backstory while still leaving some mystery about the character.
Strangely enough, I actually found the series to have similar plot elements to Iron Fist, specifically the second season. Both leads are chosen guardians given powers to carry out a grand mission having to battle an antagonist with similar goals but more brutal methods along with a love interest who may be better suited for the job than the protagonist. In regard to the love interest, I really enjoyed May Calamawy as Layla, who's a strong character in her own right while also having good chemistry with Isaac as both Marc and Steven. The Steven interactions are most enjoyable as it's like watching her fall in love with her husband all over again. As for our lead villain in Arthur Harrow, Ethan Hawke gives a very charismatic performance as a religious zealot who can even fool the likes of gods.
While the series is at its best with its character moments, the action stuff that is present is nothing to scoff at. The best examples that stand out are the car chase in episode one and the final battle in episode six. And when it comes to the show's use of CGI, it's literally 50/50 with the second half of episodes clearly better than the first. Obviously the second half definitely had more need of it, it's a little disheartening to see corners cut when these MCU Disney+ series are supposed to have the same budgets as the films.
All in all, while I don't really hold it in high regard as some may think, "Moon Knight" is still a very solid stand-alone entry for the Marvel Cinematic Universe thanks in large part to Oscar Isaac and I look forward to where Marc, Steven, and company go next.
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