Agent Carter (2015–2016)

In the modern crossover universe of Marvel, agent Peggy Carter is a regular resident. Well now she has her own series, "Agent Carter".

Set in 1946 New York, the pilot establishes her connection to Captain Rogers then launches into a post-war story of espionage. Like a cross between "Dick Tracy" and "Covert Affairs", it is not necessary to know the Marvel history behind the characters in this show. Peggy works for a clandestine and patriotic organization (SSR) where she is often treated like most secretaries in the forties. This is one of the basic jokes of the series. Like Clark Kent, she appears mild-mannered, but she works behind the scenes as a lethal and effective weapon for justice and The American Way.

The production values are terrific--as in all Marvel stories--contributing to one of the most enjoyable aspects of the show: its immersion in the milieu of its time. The clothing styles. The technology. The idioms.

At the same time, the series tweaks technology when it comes to the gadgets that Agent Carter uses in her craft. Her devices are hybrids of forties items and more modern, even futuristic, technologies. Just as steam punk has a special charm, this hybrid technology--which we might call transistor punk--is whimsical and fun.

I recommend tuning in to "Agent Carter" to watch her strike a blow for America and, along the way, the downtrodden, while swing music plays in the background.