In 2020, the world of animated superhero shows saw the arrival of Invincible, a fresh, daring, and violent take on the superhero genre. Created by Robert Kirkman, the mind behind The Walking Dead, Invincible offers an intricate blend of action, character development, and dark humor, all wrapped up in a highly engaging animated series. While often compared to traditional superhero shows like The Boys and The Justice League, Invincible sets itself apart with a gritty, emotionally charged narrative and high-stakes drama that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
In this article, we’ll explore why Invincible is a must-watch animated show, its plot, characters, and the unique aspects that make it stand out in the superhero animation landscape.
What is Invincible (2020)?
Invincible is an animated series based on the comic book series of the same name by Robert Kirkman. The show premiered on Amazon Prime Video in March 2021 but was already highly anticipated due to Kirkman’s success with The Walking Dead. The series follows Mark Grayson, a typical teenager who is also the son of Omni-Man, the most powerful superhero on Earth. At first, Mark’s journey seems like a traditional superhero story, but it quickly takes a dark turn as he begins to realize the complexity of his father’s true intentions.
The show’s animation style is vibrant and visually appealing, reminiscent of classic superhero cartoons, but it doesn’t shy away from graphic violence and intense themes. Invincible explores the complexity of heroism, father-son relationships, and the moral gray areas that come with having immense power.
Plot of Invincible (2020)
At the heart of Invincible is Mark Grayson, a teenager who discovers that he has inherited the superhuman abilities of his father, Omni-Man. As Mark begins to develop his powers and learn the ropes of being a superhero, he takes on the identity of Invincible. He forms a team called the “Teen Team,” consisting of other young superheroes, and sets out to protect the world from threats.
However, things take a horrifying turn when Mark uncovers a shocking truth about his father. Omni-Man, the Earth’s protector, reveals his true intentions: his mission is to conquer Earth and wipe out humanity, as part of a larger intergalactic plan. This revelation sends Mark into a moral crisis, torn between loyalty to his father and his duty as a hero. The series delves into the emotional turmoil of this revelation, exploring the consequences of the conflict between father and son.
The show’s plot is driven by Mark’s evolution as a superhero, the complex relationships he has with those around him, and his journey to understand the harsh realities of his new role. Each episode raises the stakes, drawing viewers deeper into a world where superheroism is far from black-and-white.
Why Invincible (2020) Stands Out
- Realistic and Dark Themes
One of the main reasons Invincible stands out in the superhero genre is its realistic and often brutal portrayal of the consequences of having superpowers. Unlike many other superhero shows, Invincible doesn’t shy away from the impact of violence. The action scenes are intense and graphic, emphasizing the true cost of fighting evil. The brutality of battles, combined with the psychological trauma characters endure, gives the show a grounded, mature feel that sets it apart from traditional animated superhero shows. - Complex Characters and Relationships
Invincible excels in developing its characters, especially the central relationship between Mark and his father, Omni-Man. Their father-son dynamic is at the core of the series and is explored in depth throughout the show. The emotional weight of Mark discovering his father’s true identity and intentions creates a compelling and tragic narrative. Additionally, other characters such as Atom Eve, Robot, and the Guardians of the Globe provide depth to the show, offering different perspectives on heroism and sacrifice. - Animation and Action
The animation style of Invincible is a perfect blend of classic comic book visuals and modern techniques. The show’s vibrant colors and fluid animation make it easy to watch, while the action sequences are fast-paced and well-executed. The violence, while graphic, is integral to the story, highlighting the brutality of superhero conflicts in a realistic way. The show’s ability to balance intense action with emotional depth is one of its strongest suits. - Exploration of Morality and Power
The show explores the philosophical questions surrounding power, responsibility, and morality. With Mark being forced to confront the idea of using his powers for good or for a darker purpose, Invincible challenges the audience to think critically about what it means to be a hero. The show delves into the gray areas of morality, showing that even those who appear to be heroes can have dark motivations, and even villains can have complex reasons for their actions. - Unique Storytelling Approach
The show takes a unique storytelling approach by mixing traditional superhero tropes with darker, more complex themes. While many superhero stories focus on good versus evil, Invincible challenges these notions by adding moral ambiguity and personal stakes. The storytelling is unpredictable, with shocking twists and emotional turns that keep the audience engaged.
Where to Watch Invincible (2020)
Invincible is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. With a subscription to Amazon Prime, you can watch the entire season of Invincible and explore the adventures of Mark Grayson and his team. Given the show’s success and growing popularity, it has already been renewed for additional seasons, ensuring that the story will continue to unfold.
Final Thoughts: Invincible – A Must-Watch Animated Series
Invincible (2020) is a groundbreaking animated series that combines the best elements of superhero action with complex emotional storytelling. Its realistic approach to violence, the exploration of father-son relationships, and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters make it a standout show in the superhero genre. With stellar animation, engaging characters, and thought-provoking themes, Invincible is a must-watch for fans of animated series, superhero stories, and anyone looking for a fresh take on the genre.
