Invincible: Season 1 (2021) Dir: Ericson Core

I was unfamiliar with the graphic novels that this Amazon Prime original series is based on, but the trailer had intrigued me greatly, and I was very keen to sit down and watch it.

Written by Robert Kirkman and Cory Walker, and based on the original graphic novels by Kirkman, this Ericson Core directed debut season went down the intriguing route of the adult superhero genre - something done to great success with another Amazon Prime original show; 'The Boys'.

However, by contrast, this series is not only animated, but focuses almost entirely on the heroes, rather than those affected by them, like in 'The Boys'. Episode one immediately sets the tone for the series, with a shocking and brutal twist and some immensely violent scenes.

The series doesn't slow down from there, with a number of highly intense moments you would not normally get in a superhero film or series. The story builds very intriguingly and leaves plenty of questions to entice viewers back for season 2.

The star-studded cast provide some excellent voice performances and help to create some wonderfully emotional moments and believable interactions between characters.

The excellent cast is headlined by the immensely talented Steven Yeun. He provides a typically excellent performance, being one of my favourite actors around these days. He makes for a really easy to get behind protagonist who keeps the series flowing and the characters meshing well.

J.K. Simmons makes for a phenomenal antagonistic character and uses his sinister delivery to really accentuate his character's traits and presence. His performance has a lot to do with why his character, and the narrative as a result, works so well.

Zachary Quinto and Gillian Jacobs are the two most enjoyable supporting actors, both of whom provide really good vocal performances that suited their characters pretty much perfectly. Some of the other standout supporting performances come from three very big names; Seth Rogan, Zazie Beetz and Mark Hamill, who each had some really good moments, particularly Beetz, who excelled in her role.

I also want to give credit to a whole host of other cast members who definitely deserve mentions, but I don't have the time to go in depth with; Kevin Michael Richardson, Chance Brown, Khary Payton, Walton Goggins, Jason Mantzoukas, Grey DeLisle, Mae Whitman, Chris Diamantopoul and Sandra Oh.

Overall, this was an excellent debut season that excelled in delivering great storylines, effective twists and solid action. I cannot wait for season 2 to be released, and I fully expect the quality to remain at this high level.