"Invincible Season 2 May Sidestep Its Source Material's Most Contentious Scene"

2023-11-21 12:14:05

Season 2 of Invincible Skillfully Suggests Avoiding the Original Comic's Most Contentious Scene

The animated series Invincible is known for pushing the envelope, but the latest season might sidestep a major contention from Robert Kirkman's original works. Although the superpowered Mark Grayson is already unique, the comic included other children of Viltrumite descent, one of them being Markus Murphy, the progeny of Mark and Anissa, a fellow Viltrumite. The narrative around Markus' conception was one of the comic's most divisive elements.

Anissa's attempt to bear a child with Mark leads to a deeply unsettling moment. Upon Mark's refusal, she sexually assaults him, resulting in her pregnancy, and shockingly, she escapes any consequences. This storyline represented a stark controversy within the comic series, but episode 3 of Invincible season 2 titled "This Missive, This Machination!" hints that the show may take a different approach with Markus' involvement.

Alternative Storylines for Anissa May Change Markus' Future

Episode 3 of Invincible season 2 has Allen the Alien speculating about the existence of "other Viltrumite kids," which could pave the way for Anissa and Markus to be brought into the series without the reviled plot. Anissa could be portrayed as a mother from the start, or perhaps she might conceive through other, less controversial means. The recent mention by Allen suggests Markus might already be in existence or could soon be, without the baggage of the original storyline.

The graphic novels depict Anissa as one of the most formidable and ruthless of the Viltrumites. Still, the television adaptation has the opportunity to present her formidable nature without replicating the original's distressing subplot. While Anissa's inclusion in season 2 has not yet been confirmed, with other nefarious Viltrumites entering the fray, her appearance may be imminent.

Reframing Anissa Could Impact Markus Murphy's Background and Significance

Introducing Markus Poses Unique Challenges

The avoidance of the grim event between Mark and Anissa in the series rendition of Invincible presents a challenge with integrating Markus Murphy as Mark's son. However, with the expansion into the multiverse, there are creative alternatives. Season 2 has introduced us to multiple Marks from different realities, allowing for the possibility of Markus being the product of an alternate Mark and Anissa, sidestepping the original encounter entirely.

Invincible Is Justified in Steering Clear of the Controversial Comic Narrative

Invincible may choose not to replicate the graphic novel's most disturbing subplot and can still convey the terrifying aspects of Anissa's infatuation with Mark without encroaching on sensitive territory. Her albeit unsettling attraction need not escalate to aggression to prove her antagonist potential or reveal the Viltrumite malice. Pursuing an alternative storyline will enable the show to evade potential criticism while establishing Anissa as a formidable character.

The Invincible series has already shown flexibility with its characters, with Debbie Grayson taking a more predominant role and William's sexuality being openly acknowledged from the outset. These deviations enhanced the television narrative. Likewise, if the story of Anissa and Mark is modified for season 2, it would align with the trend of making careful adaptations for the screen audience.

Oliver Balche

Oliver Balche is a UK-based journalist specializing in breaking entertainment news. Known for his ability to deliver up-to-the-minute reports on events across the UK, Balche has crafted a reputation for accuracy, timeliness, and an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity. His expertise spans all spectrums of the entertainment industry, making him a respected and reliable source of the latest happenings.