When it comes to comic book adaptation most people think of the MCU as the blueprint when it comes to creating a successful adaption simply because of the box office success they have had as well as the cult like following they have. This has caused so many other comic adaptations to try and go the same route as marvel movies hoping for the same success, but most tend to miss the mark. When looking at the adaption for the comic Invincible, written by Robert Kirkman, illustrated by Cory Walker and Ryan Ottley, and published by Image Comics is a series is incredible in the way it’s an adaptation that we haven’t really seen recently that changes the mold. although when I started watching I wasn’t familiar with the comic or the characters, the animation style of show reminded me of some of my favorite cartoons like Batman Beyond.
When I learned Invincible based on a teenager named Mark whose father (Omni-Man) is the strongest hero of their universe. I was shocked that the concept hadn’t been done in superhero animation before. After the initial draw in of the art style and the story concept what keeps you locked in is complexity of the story lines between Mark and those around him the things, he deals with are heavy and difficult. When I revisit comic adaptations from my childhood like Teen Titans or Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, I feel like the storylines are no longer meant for me. Even though I don’t believe that violence is necessary for a good adaptation, I do think it adds an element of realism. These are superhuman beings so when they hit someone it’s not just a regular punch or when they fly through a building there is destruction that follows. As Mark begins his journey into attempting to become a superhero, we see the consequences of someone who doesn’t know how to control their powers.
Another Amazon Adaptation the Boys which is based on a comic by Garth Ennis leans into the gore and darkness and that is a big part of its appeal. This isn’t the case in Invincible, it is able balance in both worlds while it deals with very serious themes and there is lots of violence, but it is still able to remind me so much of the cartoons I watched growing up. I believe this balance and care is what took Invincible to the next level for me.
Please watch the trailer and let me know if you would be interested in watching if you haven’t already.
I agree that Invincible is definitely one of the best adaptations of a comic that keeps up with older audiences. I think that like what you said with The Boys, that comics try to become to “adult” and become dark and graphic when they really don’t need to be. Invincible hits that happy medium of being able to reflect the older kid style of super hero show and adding in a more dark and realistic tone.