Marvel Studios’ Secret Invasion has finally arrived on Disney+, and the first episode gives fans a lot to think about. Packed with spy drama, compelling storylines, political intrigue, and an all-star cast, this highly anticipated series promises to take viewers on a stunning journey. With a deep dive into the Skrull invasion and the shapeshifting menace they pose, the Secret Invasion premiere lays a solid foundation for what is sure to be an intriguing tale of deception and deception.
[Warning: Spoilers from the Secret Invasion premiere are below!]
Importance of Secret Invasion in the Marvel Universe
Secret Invasion was a defining moment in the history of Marvel Comics, shaping the future for years after the series came to a close. In the comics, it was a story focusing on the Skrull invasion of Earth. During the event, it was revealed that a huge number of superheroes, villains, and even major political figures have been Skrulls throughout this time. Their main goal is to take control of the Earth and its resources. Using their shape-shifting abilities, they sow confusion and paranoia among the heroes and normal people to destabilize the planet.
The event had a huge impact on the Marvel universe, as it turned out that many long-known characters were Skrull imposters. This led to some questioning every decision, story, event, and even daily activity in which these characters participated. Was it all part of their plan, or was it spontaneous?
Well, that’s a question some fans are still asking themselves today. The aftermath of the event led to a reassessment of trust among the superhero community and to further plot threads exploring the consequences of the invasion. But now that the MCU version of the event has been released, let’s take a look at what the first episode can offer viewers.
Secret Invasion changes how you will perceive the MCU
The episode wastes no time in immersing viewers in the heart of the story. We are introduced to key characters such as Talos (Ben Mendelsohn), Maria Hill (Cobie Smulders), and Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson). We see them from the very beginning, setting the stage for their central roles in this invasion narrative. The chemistry between Mendelsohn and Jackson is electric, effortlessly capturing the camaraderie and shared history of their characters.
One of the most important things is that we now know that Nick Fury disappeared from Earth after the events of Avengers: Infinity War/Endgame. Not before, as fans had speculated. But I think all this is some kind of misinformation to confuse viewers and make them realize that nothing is real in this series. No one can be trusted.
We can watch Nick Fury roam the city at night, carefully observing every single person. We know he’s not a very trusting person, and his circle of trust is small, but now he’s becoming really paranoid. Fury doesn’t know if the Invasion is just beginning on a larger scale, or if it has been this large all along. His fear and paranoia are things that really shed new light on one of the most badass characters in the MCU. The episode also introduces a host of intriguing supporting characters.
Among them is G’iah (Emilia Clarke) who is Talos’ daughter. She works with the leader of the Skrull rebellion Gravik (Kingsley Ben-Adir). Their task is to cause chaos and confuse different world governments. They want to do everything in their power to take over the Earth and make it their new home.
From the first scene, the tension is palpable. The world is already under the Skrulls’ influence, with high-ranking officials, politicians, and even superheroes potentially being replaced by these shape-shifting aliens. This sense of unease permeates every frame, leaving viewers constantly questioning the authenticity of the characters they encounter.
It really works in the beginning, when we see that Agent Ross (Martin Freeman) was a Skrull. It is possible that the real Everett Ross was a human during Civil War or Black Panther, but after those events, he was replaced. As his role in the government became increasingly important, it is clear that he became a target of this Skrull network. Now viewers begin to ask themselves, “Who else is a Skrull, and what events were orchestrated by them?”
Changing perspectives and questioning everything that has ever happened in Marvel Cinematic Universe is definitely the right direction. By misleading viewers and shocking them at every turn, their feelings can be easily manipulated toward different characters/events in this universe. You may also forever change their opinion of certain projects in the MCU.
Episode 1 of this Marvel Studios series had a rough start
While the series serves as an engaging backdrop, it’s the intricate web of mystery and deception that really drives the narrative. Personally, I’m a big fan of political gamesmanship, down-to-earth stories, and more serious storytelling in the MCU. And that’s the reason why I was really hyped to watch Secret Invasion.
One of the episode’s few shortcomings is its breakneck pace. While it successfully establishes the central conflict and introduces the major players, some scenes feel rushed, leaving little room for character development. Given the magnitude of the invasion and the weight of its consequences, a slightly slower pace could have allowed for a deeper exploration of the emotional toll on the characters.
While watching this episode, I had a strange feeling like I was watching a movie that is supposed to end after 30 minutes, which is not a good thing. In addition, a few plot threads remain unresolved by the end of the episode. While this may be intentional to keep viewers guessing and create anticipation for future episodes, it does leave some loose ends hanging.
However, considering the complex nature of the source material and the need for narrative restraint, these unresolved threads could potentially be addressed in subsequent episodes.
The actors really deserve praise for their astounding portrayals of their characters
Ben Mendelsohn is one of my favorite actors. His portrayal of Talos is nothing short of mesmerizing. He effortlessly captures the struggle between his loyalty to his fellow Skrulls and his growing fondness for Earth and its inhabitants. Although he still wants to help them find a home, he knows that the priority is to save Earth from Gravik. His presence adds a compelling moral ambiguity to the story, blurring the line between friend and foe.
Emilia Clarke and Kingsley Ben-Adir’s performance also resonates strongly in the context of their relationship with the main characters. We know why they do what they do, what their endgame is, and what decisions we can expect from them. Or do we?
The role of Maria Hill in this episode was really important to me. She was the one who pointed out to Nick that he was a selfish and fearful person because he left Earth after The Blip. Since we know how close she and Nick were, her death was something shocking. Her death serves to remind him, he needs to get his shit together and once again be the fearless leader. Especially in a situation like this.
Olivia Coleman and Richard Dormer also had small roles in this episode. But they were so vivid, that I’m glad they were cast in this series.
Final thoughts on the Secret Invasion premiere
All in all, the Secret Invasion premiere starts the series with a bang, even if it was a slightly rough start. It provides a complicated story and thrilling performances, and it certainly sets the stage for bigger surprises and twists to come. With its exploration of themes like trust, identity, and the cost of war, this series promises to be a thought-provoking addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Marvel Studio’s Secret Invasion premiere episode is currently streaming on Disney+. Have you seen it yet? What do you think about it? Let us know on Twitter, Discord, or other social media.
Secret Invasion Exclusive: Details About Skrull Hideout
Secret Invasion Comics Reading Guide
