Samuel L. Jackson and Don Cheadle had an insightful discussion about a significant scene in Secret Invasion. Despite his longstanding presence in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this series marks the first time that Jackson's iconic character takes on the lead role.
In the first episode of Secret Invasion, we witness the return of various characters. However, it is in the second episode that Jackson's character, Fury, seeks a meeting with James 'War Machine' Rhodes, played by Cheadle. Fury tries to persuade Rhodes, a former Avenger and military hero, to join forces in combating the Skrull threat. When Rhodes declines, Fury becomes more vulnerable in his attempt to connect with him.
Fury shares a deeply personal reflection with Rhodes, stating, "Men like us don't achieve success simply because of social connections. We have fought tooth and nail to earn every ounce of power, to break free from the control of mediocre individuals like Alexander Pierce, who dominate this world. So, let's make our power count. Help a brother out."
The weight of the moment may have crossed the mind of an actor when Secret Invasion was being revealed as a show that would captivate adult viewers. This exchange serves as a social commentary, which only someone of Jackson's caliber could deliver with such magnitude. Variety reported that Jackson discussed with the show's writers the experience of Fury, a Black man, possessing immense power and the constant vulnerability of having that power undermined by a single statement or a shift in one's career path caused by it.
Jackson also contemplated the career paths of Rhodey and Fury in the MCU. “Rhodey and Fury have reached a position of power, but despite being superior to those in power, we still have to restrain ourselves in a specific manner,” noted Jackson. “And Marvel is not hesitant to allow us to delve into that.”
The thoughts shared here delve into profound ideas and touch upon a struggle that the superhero genre and the MCU have only briefly highlighted since gaining popularity. While the show has its flaws, like Secret Invasion falling into the trappings of fridging, moments like these have the potential to enhance the exploration of Nick Fury and the challenging circumstances he and the world currently face, even without the presence of invading aliens.
Secret Invasion episodes 1-2 are currently streaming on Disney Plus.
Source: Variety