Following the exciting conclusion of last episode which delivered thrilling action alongside important character development, the season 3 finale, “I Thought You’d Never Shut Up,” takes a different approach. While it revisits familiar elements from both the show and superhero media, it introduces new ideas that don’t quite connect as effectively. However, it still provides a fun and energetic episode, offering a change of pace even if it doesn’t quite hit the emotional depth or narrative coherence of its predecessors.
The introduction of Conquest, the elderly, one-armed Viltrumite warrior, brings an interesting dynamic to the season finale as Mark grapples with his ongoing moral conflict. While the episode sets the stage for a potentially complex ethical dilemma, it ultimately takes a different direction. Instead of focusing on Mark’s internal struggle, the finale leans heavily into Conquest’s role as a villain, offering a fresh twist. Though Conquest serves as a compelling antagonist, he feels more like a stepping stone in the larger narrative, providing an exciting shift in direction rather than the emotional conclusion we might have expected. His lack of prior development gives the episode a sense of mystery, allowing for an unexpected focus on action and tension, which creates an intriguing setup for what’s to come.
Conquest’s actions in the season finale prompt Mark to make tough decisions once again, putting civilians at risk and continuing the internal conflict he has been grappling with. Though Conquest isn’t someone Mark has a personal history with, his role as a formidable foe helps set up a thrilling action sequence that amplifies the stakes for the season’s conclusion.
Oliver and Eve both play pivotal roles in the final battle, with their involvement raising the stakes of the confrontation. Eve’s serious injury adds a sense of urgency, but her sudden recovery—thanks to an unexpected magical power-up—feels a bit like a deus ex machina. Thankfully it’s not all bad as the moment injects an element of surprise into the story, adding an unexpected layer of intrigue as the characters tap into new powers to overcome the challenges they face.
Credit: Prime Video
Mark’s intense fight with Conquest, while action-packed, lacks the emotional depth that has defined previous battles. Conquest, being a relatively new character with little development, feels more like a challenge to overcome rather than a significant antagonist. The inclusion of lengthy monologues from him towards the end of the season doesn’t land, as it’s clear he’s being set up for future significance rather than serving as a meaningful presence in this episode. While the episode’s violence is impactful, it doesn’t quite carry the same weight as past confrontations, and the subplot surrounding Sinclair’s work with the GDA, though intriguing, feels like a teaser for what’s to come rather than a pressing issue in this moment.
As the finale comes to a close, it hints at exciting future storylines for several characters, like Battlebeast and the demon detective Damien Darkblood. While Nolan’s absence still looms large, the finale sets up intriguing potential arcs for the future. In a surprising moment, we discover that Rex did indeed die, though recent resurrections make it unclear who’s truly gone for good. Before anyone, including Mark’s girlfriend, Rae, has a chance to process this loss fully, the story shifts its focus back to Mark and Eve’s relationship. Mark’s brief emotional response to believing Eve was dead adds an interesting layer to their dynamic, leaving us curious about how this will evolve in future seasons. Debbie’s storyline concludes on a positive note, reuniting with her children, and the finale also teases the lengths to which Cecil might go in upcoming episodes.
The Season 3 finale of Invincible introduces some familiar elements, albeit with a lighter impact. While the episode focuses on a new villain we haven’t seen before, it still delivers on the show’s signature action and suspense. Rather than resolving Mark’s season-long arc through tough decisions, the story concludes with dialogue-driven reflection. Although it may not fully capture the intensity of past finales, the episode still sets the stage for exciting developments to come.
‘Invincible’ Season 3 Episode 8 Review: “I Thought You’d Never Shut Up”
The Season 3 finale of Invincible introduces some familiar elements, albeit with a lighter impact. While the episode focuses on a new villain we haven’t seen before, it still delivers on the show’s signature action and suspense.
