Episode 140: S.H.I.E.L.D., H.A.M.M.E.R., S.W.O.R.D., and Other Marvel Acronym Agencies

Sure, S.W.O.R.D. and S.H.I.E.L.D. make sense together.  But, where did H.A.M.M.E.R. come from?  S.T.R.I.K.E.? W.A.N.D.? And what the heck does U.L.T.I.M.A.T.U.M. stand for? This episode, we go through various groups in the Marvel Universe that use acronyms and go through some of their history.

Total Recall totally ripped the “gun in the x-ray” off!

SHIELD’s first Director after 40 years of Fury…Maria Hill.

Tony doing his best to get in on that sweet Bond action.

Norman Osborn was going through a bit of a “What if I was played by Tommy Lee Jones” phase.

Until they gave her the gauntlets, I had a hard time telling Daisy and Maria apart. How about you?

If by “markedly different,” you mean “treasonous,” then you’re spot on!

Abigail Brand, Director of SWORD. With her sometime boyfriend Beast behind her (to her right, our left).

Episode 33: The Replacements - Iron Man

Now that Tony’s gone from the MCU, let’s look at some of his possible replacements, specifically those who have already done so in the comics.  It’s the third installment of “The Replacements,” which previously covered those who have replaced Captain America and Superman.  This time, we look at the history of those who have taken up the Armored Avenger’s mantle.

The original! Accept no substitutes (or do, since that’s the concept of the episode…)

“Weasel” Wills using the Iron Man suit to rob a bank. Not one of Tony’s greatest masterminds…

Rhodey in the War Machine suit. MCU fans will recognize this right away…

…this one, not so much. (The Eidolon Warwear version of War Machine)

The Iron Legion. Collect ‘em all!

To quote Monty Python…”He got better!”

Yes, that is a squirrel using an Iron Man helmet and gauntlet as armor. No, this does not count as a full replacement. But, it is awesome.