Robert Kirkman's Invincible animated series, based on his comic book of the same name, is a gritty, subversive, and emotionally intelligent take on the superhero genre. Premiering in 2021 on Amazon Prime Video, Invincible shocked audiences with its visceral storytelling, unapologetic violence, and surprisingly heartfelt character development. Over the course of its first 3 seasons, the show has consistently proven itself to be more than just another superhero story - it's a layered, mature narrative that challenges the genre's norms and leaves viewers questioning the very concept of heroism.
Here's why Invincible earns a strong 9/10 rating.
1. Subversion of Superhero Tropes
At first glance, Invincible looks like a traditional coming-of-age superhero story. Teenager Mark Grayson is the son of the world's most powerful hero, Omni-Man. He begins to develop his own powers and embarks on the classic journey of learning how to be a hero. But within the first episode, the series takes a shocking turn that signals it's not playing by the usual rules. The brutal twist at the end of episode one - where Omni-Man slaughters the Guardians of the Globe - instantly sets Invincible apart.
This kind of subversion continues throughout the series. It challenges the black-and-white morality often seen in superhero media. Characters aren't defined as simply good or evil - they are flawed, conflicted, and forced to make morally ambiguous decisions. This level of complexity is rare and refreshing in the genre.
Deep and Relatable Characters
The show thrives on its character development. Mark Grayson (voiced by Steven Yeun) isn't just a teenage superhero - he's also a student, a boyfriend, and a son struggling to find his identity. His arc is compelling because it balances the superhuman and the deeply human. His struggles with balancing his dual life, dealing with betrayal, and making impossible choices resonate with viewers on a personal level.
Omni-Man (voiced by J. K. Simmons) is another standout character. He isn't just a Superman clone - he's an alien soldier with a chilling agenda, yet the show never turns him into a one-dimensional villain. His complex motivations, his genuine (though twisted) love for his family, and his inner conflict make him one of the most nuanced antagonists in modern animation.
Even the side characters - like Atom Eve, Debbie Grayson, Cecil, and Robot - are given meaningful arcs. They aren't just background players; they each have their own personal battles, agency, and growth. This attention to character elevates the entire series.
Emotional Weight and Consequences
What makes Invincible especially gripping is that actions have real, lasting consequences. When battles happen, they're not sanitized. Cities are destroyed, civilians die, and the trauma is felt deeply. This is not a world where heroes walk away unscathed after a fight. Mark gets beaten, physically and emotionally. The cost of heroism is shown in all its brutal detail.
The series also tackles themes like parental pressure, moral compromise, identity, betrayal, and loss - all within the framework of a superhero story. The emotional core of the series is surprisingly raw and effective. The scene between Mark and Omni-Man at the end of season one is among the most powerful in recent animated history. The heartbreaking line "What will you have after 500 years?" followed by Mark's bloodied whisper - "I'd still have you" - encapsulates the emotional weight the show is capable of carrying.
Quality Animation and Voice Acting
The animation style may not be revolutionary, but it is crisp, expressive, and capable of shifting from calm moments to intense action seamlessly. The fight scenes are brutal and choreographed with a clear sense of impact. They aren't just there for spectacle - they serve the story and the characters' development.
Voice acting is another major strength. Steven Yeun brings depth and vulnerability to Mark. J. K. Simmons delivers a commanding and chilling performance as Omni-Man, while Sandra Oh's portrayal of Debbie gives the show its emotional grounding. The rest of the cast - including Walton Goggins, Gillian Jacobs, and Zachary Quinto - round out a stellar ensemble.
Worldbuilding and Long-Term Storytelling
Invincible builds a rich, expansive world. From the intergalactic politics of the Viltrumites to the internal dynamics of Earth's defenders, the show lays down threads for a much larger story. Unlike many superhero shows that wrap up their plots neatly, Invincible is unafraid to play the long game. This makes the experience more rewarding, as early episodes plant seeds that grow over time.
Final Verdict: 9/10
Invincible is not perfect - some pacing issues and minor animation inconsistencies occasionally pop up - but these are dwarfed by its strengths. Its emotionally grounded storytelling, subversive take on the superhero genre, strong character development, and powerful performances make it one of the best animated series of the last decade.
It earns a 9/10 not just for what it is, but for what it has the potential to become. It's a brutal, heartfelt, and intelligent series that treats its audience with respect and delivers unforgettable moments. If you're looking for superhero media that challenges the status quo, Invincible is essential viewing.
