Loki Season 2 Unleashes Epic Encounter: The Chilling Fate of Jane Foster Revealed!
Loki Season 2 revolutionizes Zaniac's comic roots, introducing an intriguing twist Find out why these changes are brilliantly crafted and discover the immense significance of Zaniac's character in the Marvel Comics universe
Summary
The Loki season 2 trailer teased the introduction of a Thor villain, Zaniac, but his appearance in the show is a wasted opportunity.
Zaniac's comics origin is completely revamped in the show, disregarding his darker and more sinister past.
Though the alterations to Zaniac's character are likely beneficial, there was a chance to depict a timely narrative on toxic masculinity that was missed.
Attention! Spoilers for episode 2 of Loki season 2 are included in this article. Unfortunately, the anticipated appearance of a formidable Thor villain who is notorious for killing Jane Foster falls short of expectations in the show. The trailer highlights Loki and his partner, Mobius M. Mobius, attending the premiere of a film called Zaniac, which features a relatively minor Marvel Comics villain. Additionally, Loki encounters Brad Wolfe, the actor portraying Zaniac in the movie, while assuming his human alias.
In episode 1 of Loki, Brad is introduced as X-5, a devoted agent of the TVA who remains loyal to General Dox, a departure from his comic book background. However, episode 2 unveils that X-5 managed to escape the TVA to lead a normal life on the Sacred Timeline, eventually becoming a popular Hollywood star during the 1970s. Nevertheless, it is important to note that Zaniac's portrayal in Loki season 2 deviates from his much darker history depicted in the comics, which the show has chosen to overlook thus far.
Loki Completely Changes Zaniac's Comics Origin
In the comic books, Dormammu, the villainous leader of the Dark Dimension, known for his battles with Doctor Strange, sends a parasitic being to Earth. This being proceeds to inhabit several misogynistic men throughout history, turning them into notorious serial killers, including the infamous Jack the Ripper. Eventually, the being takes control of Brad, who becomes the central character in the film Zaniac, portraying a serial killer who brutally targets women. Brad's possession leads him to embody this role in a literal and violent manner. After Brad's eventual demise, the entity possesses Thug Thatcher, who becomes known for the ruthless murder of Jane Foster, one of his most notable crimes.
Zaniac, despite his powers, is easily defeated by Thor in the comics. Likewise, in episode 2, Loki quickly subdues Brad. Although Brad attempts to escape when Loki and Mobius discover him, Loki uses magic to capture him and bring him back to the TVA. Loki proceeds to interrogate Brad in order to determine Sylvie's whereabouts, even engaging with Brad's taunts about him being a villain.
MCU Brad, despite being an annoying adversary, does not harbor any evil intentions or hold harmful views towards women. His only desire seems to be returning to his normal life on the Sacred Timeline, as he has grown disillusioned with the TVA and its mission. The Loki version of Zaniac serves as a minor obstacle for the main character, lacking the power and malevolence of the serial killer depicted in the comic books.
Why Loki's Zaniac Changes Are Probably Smart
Considering Loki's extensive history in the comics, there was potential to enhance Zaniac's role and make him a truly terrifying threat. The show could have explored Loki's transformation from simply being part of a movie about Zaniac's villainous character to embracing the identity of Zaniac in real life. However, the changes made by the MCU to Loki's character were likely made for the better.
Throughout this season, Loki faces multiple external forces and motivations. His primary objective is to find Sylvie and reconcile with her fully. Additionally, he grapples with the consequences of his time manipulation and works tirelessly to prevent the Sacred Timeline from fracturing into uncontrollable branches. Introducing another villain to the story would have unnecessarily complicated the plot, especially since Loki season 2 already features the TVA and Kang.
Why Zaniac Is A Way Bigger Deal In Marvel Comics
Despite Zaniac's troubling history and disrespectful treatment of women, it would have been challenging to incorporate a story on toxic masculinity into the generally lighthearted tone of Loki. As a result, Brad's character can serve as a delightful tribute to the comics instead.
The introduction of the TVA to Marvel Comics is credited to Zaniac, who plays a crucial role in assisting Thor against the villain after Jane's demise. This association with the TVA possibly explains Zaniac's involvement in Loki season 2 despite the alterations made. However, what distinguishes the comic book version of Zaniac as truly terrifying is his ability to embody any person and inhabit numerous hosts throughout history, extending beyond just Brad. His enhanced strength, resilience, and immortality pose an enduring threat to women across different eras.
The fact that he killed Jane demonstrates his immense power and the inherent danger he poses. Additionally, it showcases his pivotal position in a significant Thor narrative. Although Loki may present a somewhat diluted portrayal of the character, his presence in the series serves as a clever nod to Marvel's rich history and the comic origins of the TVA.
New episodes of Loki season 2 are now available every Thursday on Disney+.
