Here’s a spoiler-free overview of episode 4 of Secret Invasion, titled ‘Beloved,’ currently available for streaming on Disney+.
Episode 4 of Secret Invasion, titled ‘Beloved,’ brings explosive moments and significant revelations as the series enters its second half. However, this episode falls short compared to its predecessors, suffering from lackluster drama, weak dialogue, and uninspiring direction.
As expected in an espionage thriller, this episode aims to unravel the story’s mysteries and deliver major plot points. Unfortunately, the impact of these revelations feels muted, with some being predictable due to prior episodes’ hints and others lacking the necessary weight. The lack of genuine surprise or shock makes the events seem mundane and inconsequential, despite the underlying sense of significant things happening.
While the first half of the season had a solid script to compensate for the lack of excitement, this week’s episode fails to deliver in that regard as well. The exploration of Fury’s post-Blip PTSD takes a backseat, and he appears to operate in a business-as-usual manner rather than as someone fighting through his darkest moments. A romantic conversation between Fury and his wife attempts to showcase a tender side, but the execution comes across as corny rather than authentic, despite the efforts of Samuel L. Jackson and Charlayne Woodard.
Overall, episode 4 of Secret Invasion feels disappointingly dull, despite the significant plot developments. The series should be pivotal to the MCU, but even its most eventful moments fail to evoke the desired impact, leaving viewers wanting more.
The Verdict
After a series of multiverse-focused narratives and cosmic escapades, Secret Invasion marks a refreshing return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) gritty espionage genre. Drawing inspiration from the Winter Soldier projects, this series sets itself apart by prominently featuring flawed central characters instead of relying heavily on superheroes. While the initial two episodes might lack the necessary sense of fear that a paranoid thriller demands, there is an indication that the forthcoming revelations might not match the impact of those found in the comic book source material. Nevertheless, Secret Invasion establishes a strong foundation for its dark and compelling storyline.
