Unveiling Gravik: Marvel's Mysterious Mastermind Behind Secret Invasion
Kingsley Ben-Adir brings Gravik to life in Marvel's Secret Invasion, a character not found in the comics Discover Gravik's role and mysterious plan as the plot unfolds, hinting at a possible connection to the formidable Super-Skrull
Gravik, a formidable new character in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), made his debut in Phase 5's Secret Invasion. This highly-anticipated six-part Disney+ series, announced by Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige during Disney's 2020 Investor Day, premiered on June 21, 2023. The series marks the return of Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury and Ben Mendelsohn as the Skrull Talos, reprising his role from Captain Marvel. Secret Invasion, based on the 2008 Marvel Comics series of the same name, follows Fury and his allies as they confront a rogue faction of shapeshifting Skrulls who have been infiltrating humanity for decades.
In the first episode of Secret Invasion, titled "Resurrection," set in the present-day MCU, a rebel faction of Skrulls initiates their plan to take over Earth and eliminate humanity. Alongside Jackson and Mendelsohn, Cobie Smulders returns as Maria Hill, while Don Cheadle and Martin Freeman reprise their previous MCU roles. The series also introduces new cast members Olivia Colman, Emilia Clarke, Dermot Mulroney, and Kingsley Ben-Adir to the MCU, with Ben-Adir portraying the formidable villain Gravik, the leader of the Skrull rebellion on Earth.
Gravik Is Not A Character From Marvel Comics
Marvel Studios has the freedom to develop the backstory and motivation for Gravik, as the character is an entirely original creation for Secret Invasion. Unlike other characters adapted from Marvel Comics, Gravik is not bound by established lore or comparisons to the comic book version. This introduces an element of uncertainty regarding what to expect from Gravik as the series progresses. In episode 1 of Secret Invasion, Gravik is revealed to be a Skrull, positioning him as the primary antagonist for Phase 5. While the live-action adaptation deviates from the Secret Invasion storyline in the comics, Gravik could potentially fulfill a similar role to Queen Veranke, who orchestrated the Skrull invasion in the original material. The plot of Secret Invasion has been streamlined to focus on the espionage thriller themes, with the revelation of Skrull identities such as Everett Ross and even an impersonation of Nick Fury by Gravik.
Gravik's Role In Secret Invasion Explained
Gravik, the leader of the Skrull rebellion, remains shrouded in mystery. Patiently biding his time for years while Fury failed to secure a new home for the Skrulls, Gravik emerged as a powerful force, commanding a substantial following of hundreds of Skrulls. Within the walls of New Skrullos, an abandoned Russian nuclear plant, new warriors are constantly being created to bolster their ranks.
An enigmatic and resolute figure, Gravik's true nature was hinted at when he was implicated in the murder of Soren, the wife of Talos and mother of G'iah. Soren's last appearance was in the post-credits scene of Spider-Man: Far From Home. It is clear that Gravik's rebellion is a recent development, as he had prior contact with Nick Fury before the latter's departure to the SABER Space Station. The exact nature of their relationship remains unknown, but the connections between Gravik, G'iah, Talos, and Fury are key elements in the grounded storyline of Secret Invasion.
As Secret Invasion progresses, it is expected that more will be revealed about Gravik's character and his motivations for turning against humanity. The past between Gravik and Nick Fury, as well as the reasons behind his rebellion, are likely to be explored, providing answers to the lingering questions surrounding this intriguing figure.
Everything We Know About Gravik's Plan In Secret Invasion
Gravik, along with his forces, successfully obtained the necessary materials to construct multiple bombs during the premiere episode of Secret Invasion. These bombs were strategically detonated in Vossoyedineniye Square, with the intention of framing Americans Against Russia (AAR) for the attacks. Gravik's ultimate goal is to instigate a war between Russia and the United States, a catastrophic event that would result in nuclear radiation enveloping the world. While the Skrulls are immune to radiation and would survive, humanity would be eradicated, allowing the Skrulls to take over the Earth. This desperate plan is a result of Gravik's former human allies betraying him and his people, leaving him with no alternative. Secret Invasion's gripping narrative reflects the intense stakes found in the original Marvel Comics storyline, seamlessly fitting into the unique world of the MCU.
Secret Invasion May Be Setting Up Gravik As Super-Skrull
The Super Skrull, a Skrull warrior with enhanced abilities, has frequently appeared as an antagonist in Marvel Comics, particularly in relation to the Fantastic Four. In the second trailer for Secret Invasion released on April 2, 2023, the character Gravik, portrayed by Kingsley Ben-Adir, was hinted at as the MCU's Super Skrull. The trailer's final shot showcased Gravik stretching his arm to an extraordinary length, reminiscent of Reed Richards (Mister Fantastic) and his abilities.
This tease implies that Gravik could be a significant villain in the MCU, potentially extending his role beyond Secret Invasion. With Marvel Studios' Fantastic Four slated for Phase 6 and a version of Reed Richards already glimpsed in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Secret Invasion could offer valuable insight into the new team's introduction by introducing the Super Skrull. While Gravik did not display any Super Skrull powers in episode 1, Secret Invasion may serve as a precursor to the Fantastic Four storyline, solidifying the series as a crossover event within the MCU and establishing Gravik as a recurring threat.
