The tension is heightened even further in episode 5 of Secret Invasion, setting the stage for an exciting finale. This installment of Nick Fury's Disney+ show continues to deliver unexpected twists and revelations, maintaining its suspenseful nature. Despite only two minor character deaths, this episode manages to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The complexity of the plot increases for the major characters, with Gravik facing challenges to his leadership, the Skrull Rhodey replacement grappling with a crisis of conscience, and Fury confronting his troubled past involving the unsettling "Harvest" serum. Episode 5 does not neglect its own plot while preparing for the Secret Invasion finale, ensuring a satisfying viewing experience.
7 Gravik Kills Pagon
In movies and television, it is a common convention for a villain to kill one of their own henchmen to demonstrate the extent of their depravity. Gravik follows this tradition in Secret Invasion episode 5 when he murders Pagon. Although Pagon expresses disagreement, he has been one of Gravik's most loyal followers throughout the series, making his death shocking and serving as a powerful example of the lengths to which the MCU villain is prepared to go against anyone who opposes him and his plan, regardless of their allegiance.
It is important to note that Gravik does not only kill Pagon because he spoke against him, but also because Pagon mentions that Nick Fury "never trusted" Gravik, hinting at a potential vulnerability. This could support the hypothesis that Gravik and Fury had a familial bond after the Skrulls arrived on Earth, which would explain why the idea of Fury not trusting Gravik angers him so deeply. Additionally, this could provide further insight into why Fury characterizes the conflict as "personal".
6 Rhodey Turns President Ritson Against The Skrulls
Rhodey's Skrull replacement - known as Raava - is instructed by Gravik to inform President Ritson a half-truth that the Skrulls are collaborating with Russia against America. This deceptive tactic aims to provoke an airstrike on Russian soil. Rhodey is taken aback by this revelation, as Gravik's initial plan was for the Skrulls to maintain their disguise as either faction, ensuring that they would eventually attack each other. Furthermore, revealing Skrull involvement not only puts them at risk but also jeopardizes the realization that Gravik's Skrulls are solely responsible. Nonetheless, Raava dutifully follows the orders, although it remains unclear whether Ritson agrees to carry out the strike.
5 Nick Fury “Killing” Maria Hill Becomes Public
Fury's advantage takes a turn when Skrull Rhodey emerges at the hospital with President Ritson. However, the tables quickly turn when the Skrull unveils incriminating footage, revealing Gravik's murder of Maria Hill while posing as Nick Fury in the first episode of Secret Invasion. This bombshell revelation instantly alters Fury's priorities, prompting him to employ even more espionage tactics to evade those who seek to interrogate and apprehend him in connection to this event. With Nick Fury being compelled to operate as his most elusive self, the stakes skyrocket for the remaining episodes of the show, setting the stage for a climactic ending filled with tension and emotional release.
4 Gravik’s Skrull Faction Attempt To Turn On Him
Throughout the show, Gravik's Skrull faction has been increasingly involved in questionable actions in support of their leader and his plan. In Secret Invasion episode 5, it appears that the group has reached their breaking point with Gravik. After questioning him about the murder of Pagon and receiving an unsatisfactory response, the group turns against him, only to be defeated by Gravik's Super-Skrull abilities.
In the final scene of this confrontation, a crowd of concerned Skrulls witnesses the devastation caused by Gravik on his own allies, while he actively challenges others to challenge him. This scene reinforces the notion that many Skrulls disagree with Gravik's plans and tactics, yet they feel powerless to stop him.
3 Sonya Falsworth Raids Dr. Dalton’s Laboratory
Sonya Falsworth once again showcases her charisma and ruthlessness as she conducts a successful raid on the Skrull-run laboratory of Dr. Rosa Dalton and Dr. Victor Dalton. These scientists were engaged in the controversial research of merging Skrull DNA with other organisms. Sonya skillfully delivers clever remarks, interrogates Rosa about her projects, and swiftly eliminates Victor by shooting him in the head, in order to preserve the secrecy of their findings.
Rosa, understandably shocked by Victor's sudden demise, is unlikely to hold any resentment towards Sonya, given his threatening intent towards his Skrull associate. Consequently, Rosa has the potential to become a crucial ally in Falsworth and Fury's mission to save the world, as she possesses unique knowledge that no one else has. Furthermore, the recent events in Secret Invasion episode 5 highlight the enhanced powers of Gravik, making Rosa's understanding of his Super-Skrull transformation and its potential vulnerabilities the missing piece needed to defeat him permanently.
2 Nick Fury Uses The Widow’s Veil
Fury's ability to travel incognito despite being a wanted man is explained in Secret Invasion episode 5 with the introduction of a technology called the Widow's Veil. This gadget, mentioned by Sonya Falsworth, can completely transform Fury's face, allowing him to go undetected. The Widow's Veil bears similarities to the Photostatic Veils seen in other Marvel productions like Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Black Widow, Agents of SHIELD, and The Falcon & The Winter Soldier. However, the updated name and Falsworth's mention of "development" suggest that this version may be more advanced than its predecessors.
Fury hints that the Widow's Veil will make future appearances in the MCU, alluding to a more advanced iteration that can also hide a person's body. This suggestion becomes even more exciting with the upcoming Thunderbolts movie, which is expected to feature Yelena Belova, a character who could potentially take on the Black Widow mantle. Therefore, it is possible that the Widow's Veil will reappear in the near future.
1 Fury Reveals His Secret Hiding Place For The Harvest Vial
In Secret Invasion episode 5, it is revealed that Nick Fury's faked death comes with a hidden advantage. Some of his gravesites contain secret equipment. One grave in Finland hides a vial called "The Harvest," which contains collected Avengers DNA. Additionally, the grave holds a backup supply of a gun, Fury's iconic coat, and his eyepatch combo. However, the significance lies in the Harvest vial rather than the other items, particularly because Fury's previous reaction to it suggests he regrets its creation.
The fact that Nick Fury concealed the Harvest DNA collection in one of his most covert locations highlights his understanding of its dangerous nature. It also hints at the potential havoc that could be wreaked if Gravik gains access to it, unless it is an elaborate trap. Fury's decision to bring the Harvest to Gravik implies that he has a plan, but the fact that the person most committed to safeguarding Earth created such a massive threat is a surprising twist. Hopefully, Secret Invasion episode 6 will delve deeper into this revelation and provide further insights before the conclusion.
New episodes of Secret Invasion release every Wednesday on Disney+.