Summary
In a tantalizing tease, Robert Kirkman hints that Invincible season 2 will bring forth the formidable villain Angstrom Levy and delve into the intriguing concept of the multiverse. However, he assures fans that the approach will be utterly distinct, centered around the characters themselves. The groundwork laid for the multiverse in Invincible predated widely acclaimed comic book adaptations such as Spider-Verse and Flashpoint; nevertheless, it will offer a fresh and captivating perspective on this engaging concept.Kirkman's approach to the multiverse goes beyond showcasing different versions of familiar characters, making it an exciting storytelling tool. Robert Kirkman explains how Invincible season 2's multiverse sets itself apart from other similar efforts in the comic book genre. In the upcoming season, the protagonist, played by Steven Yeun, along with his mother, portrayed by Sandra Oh, face the challenge of processing the shocking revelation that their patriarch, Omni-Man, had sinister motives and has abandoned the world. As villains plot to seize power in the seemingly unprotected world, including Angstrom Levy played by Sterling K. Brown, the stakes are raised.
Screen Rant had an exclusive interview with Robert Kirkman regarding Invincible season 2 in light of the franchise's San Diego Comic-Con 2023 panel. When asked about the upcoming season, Kirkman hinted at the inclusion of the villain Angstrom Levy and the exploration of the multiverse concept, emphasizing its uniqueness compared to other media depictions. Kirkman noted that his comics had already delved into this concept before popular storylines such as Spider-Verse and Flashpoint came into existence. Here is an excerpt from Kirkman's explanation:
In season 2, although Angstrom Levy may not be the primary antagonist, he plays a significant role. The presence of multiple universes in various media can be frustrating because back when the Angstrom Levy storyline unfolded in the comic books, Spider-Verse or Flashpoint had not yet been introduced. While DC Comics had a multiverse, it was not as extensive as the multitude of multiverses we see in today's media landscape.
We have a unique approach to handling alternate dimensions, which sets us apart from others. Our focus is more on the development of characters and storytelling rather than just providing numerous versions of something popular. The multiverse serves as a powerful tool for our storytelling, and we are excited about the fresh perspective we are bringing with Angstrom Levy.
Can Invincible Save The Multiverse Story Concept?
Introduced in Invincible #14 in 2006, Angstrom Levy possesses the unique ability to create portals to alternate dimensions. In his quest for knowledge and power, Levy attempts to use the assistance of the Mauler twins but ends up disfigured and driven by a desire for revenge against Invincible. Throughout the comics, Levy remains a recurring villain and is widely regarded as Invincible's ultimate foe. Utilizing his dimensional-traveling powers, he frequently recruits multiple versions of villains and even evil incarnations of Invincible himself.
While it remains uncertain how much of the multiverse will be featured in Invincible season 2, it will be intriguing to see if the storyline can avoid feeling overused. The Marvel Cinematic Universe was the pioneer in live-action comic book franchises exploring this concept, with successful ventures like WandaVision and Spider-Man: No Way Home. However, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness received more mixed reviews for its execution. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania introduced the major antagonist of The Multiverse Saga, Kang the Conqueror, and left viewers with an exciting post-credits tease showcasing countless variants of him.
The DC Extended Universe, transitioning into the DC Universe, made its debut in multiverse storytelling with The Flash this year. However, the reception was divided, leaving the fate of the franchise uncertain for its cast members. Considering Kirkman's prior exploration of the multiverse in his comics, and the show's clever blend of satire and sincerity towards the superhero genre, it will be intriguing to observe if Invincible season 2's exploration of this concept will rejuvenate it for viewers, or if it will encounter similar challenges as its counterparts.