Unveiling the Mind-Blowing Extremis Easter Egg in Secret Invasion: The Ultimate Breakdown

Warning: The information below contains spoilers for Secret Invasion on Disney Plus. Skrulls, who were introduced in Captain Marvel, make a comeback in Secret Invasion on the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In this return, there are Easter eggs and references to previous MCU movies. The second episode of Secret Invasion reveals a Skrull computer with a list of DNA specimens. This list includes Frost Beasts from the Thor movies, Groot from the Guardians of the Galaxy, and Cull Obsidian from Thanos' allies. Additionally, the list features Extremis, which is not a species but a serum developed in Iron Man 3.

Although it may initially appear as a mystery, the Skrulls' intentions with the Extremis sample can be understood by referring to Marvel Comics. To comprehend their potential use of Extremis, it is essential to understand the nature of Extremis and its benefits for the Skrulls. The inclusion of Extremis alongside the other samples mentioned earlier provides a significant clue for Secret Invasion viewers.

What Is Extremis?

Extremis, a serum developed by Aldrich Killian and Maya Hansen, was initially intended to aid amputees. Killian explains to Pepper Potts that Extremis taps into our bioelectric potential, granting various abilities to its recipients. These individuals become stronger, faster, can regenerate lost limbs, and even generate fire. However, the formula is unstable and causes those who undergo the trials to combust.

When Pepper Potts receives the Extremis injection, Tony Stark manages to stabilize the formula, thereby saving his beloved partner. Nanotechnology, which serves as the foundation for Stark's later Iron Man suits, plays a role in this accomplishment. Due to Stark's successful stabilization, Pepper Potts never exhibits any abilities from Extremis beyond the events of Iron Man 3.

Where Has Extremis Appeared In The MCU Since Iron Man 3?

Extremis has made limited appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) since its introduction in Iron Man 3. Prior to Secret Invasion, it was only featured in one canon MCU project. Its most recent cameo was in Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, where it was subtly referenced as one of the abilities used by a fighter in underground super-powered matches. Additionally, Extremis has been mentioned in supplementary materials associated with the MCU.

A notable inclusion of Extremis can be found in the book The Wakanda Files: A Technological Exploration of the Avengers and Beyond. Within the book, compiled as an in-universe document for Shuri's benefit, the advancements observed by Wakanda's War Dogs in the outside world are detailed. Extremis is listed among these advancements, with Shuri's notes suggesting that further research should be conducted due to its potential, despite the associated dangers.

Extremis made an appearance in the Agents of SHIELD series, which is closely connected to the MCU canon. Initially stemming from The Avengers, the series eventually developed its own timeline due to time travel events across multiple seasons. In Agents of SHIELD, Extremis was utilized by a faction of Hydra known as Project CENTIPEDE. The substance, along with other elements, was injected into individuals through a device resembling a centipede on their arm. Additionally, Extremis was experimented on and injected into Daisy Johnson (played by Chloe Bennet) to enhance her Inhuman abilities.

These previous uses of Extremis in the MCU suggest its potential, particularly before it was experimented with by the Skrulls in Secret Invasion. As a result, its involvement in future Disney Plus series could be significant.

What Role Does Extremis Play In The Skrull's Experiments?

The Skrulls are likely uninterested in the Extremis enhancements for strength or speed, as they already surpass human beings in those aspects. However, they are probably intrigued by Extremis' ability to increase heat in the body, enabling the host to produce fire. Aldrich Killian demonstrates this ability by breathing fire, while Pepper Potts is able to walk through fire unharmed. These capabilities would surely capture the Skrulls' attention, especially since they seem to be experimenting with creating Super Skrulls.

In the comics, the creation of a Super Skrull occurs after a confrontation with the Fantastic Four. By obtaining DNA samples from each member, the Skrulls are able to synthesize their powers for one Skrull, resulting in a Super Skrull. This has significant implications for the Skrulls, as they are unable to naturally develop powers through evolution or mutation like humans can in the comics. This scenario also seems to hold true in the current Marvel Cinematic Universe.

In the Secret Invasion episode 2, the Easter egg of DNA samples is akin to the extraordinary abilities possessed by the Fantastic Four's Super Skrull. Cull Obsidian's strength resembles that of The Thing, Groot's capacity to extend his limbs resembles Mr. Fantastic's stretching ability, and the Frost Beast's ability to be frozen for extended periods parallels the Invisible Woman's force fields. Moreover, Extremis produces fire similar to the Human Torch's abilities, indicating that Extremis will likely be involved in creating the first Super Skrull in the MCU. The gathering of DNA samples suggests that the Skrulls have been conducting experiments for years, possibly with a history of unsuccessful attempts. However, with Gravik's determination to conquer the planet, he may become the first successful Super Skrull, equipped with various abilities bestowed upon him by these DNA samples.

New episodes of Secret Invasion are available Wednesdays on Disney Plus.