If there’s one thing Invincible does better than most superhero adaptations, it’s refusing to take itself too seriously. Sure, it has plenty of shocking moments, heartbreaking deaths, and existential crises, but it also knows when to lean back and have some fun. Season 3 is already proving to be a masterclass in balancing intense storytelling with humor, as it playfully takes jabs at its own creative choices.
And let’s be honest, Invincible has made quite a few bold choices. From unexpected character arcs to jaw-dropping twists, the show isn’t afraid to remix the source material. But what’s even more impressive is how it handles those changes. Instead of running from controversy or criticism, it embraces them with a wink and a nudge.
Shrinking Rae is getting the spotlight the comics never gave
In the comics, Shrinking Ray was a side character so minor you’d be forgiven for forgetting he even existed. He was there, he was small, and then, boom, he was dead. That was pretty much the extent of his impact. But the animated series decided to do something radical, give the character an actual personality, agency, and, dare we say it, some well-earned screen time.
By reimagining Shrinking Ray as Shrinking Rae, the show has given the character a much-needed glow-up. She’s got sass, skills, and an actual arc instead of just being cannon fodder.
Plus, unlike her comic book counterpart, who was already pushing daisies at this point in the story, Rae is still alive, kicking and, you know, shrinking. That alone makes her a far more compelling character than the original ever was.
But it’s not just about screen time, it’s about depth. The show gives Rae layers which, ironically, makes her feel much bigger than Ray ever did. She was an active member of the Guardians of the Globe and contributed to the team meaningfully rather than just being a background player.
Her personality is distinct, her powers are put to creative use, and her interactions with other characters, especially Rex Splode, are packed with humor and charm. And speaking of Rex Splode…
Rex Splode’s dinner invitation for Shrinking Rae
Rex Splode is the human embodiment of chaotic energy, and his interactions with Shrinking Rae have been pure gold. But one joke in particular stands out, his misspelling of her name on the dinner invitation in episode five of the third season. On the surface, it’s just another classic Rex blunder, the kind of thing you’d expect from a guy who acts first and thinks, well, rarely.
But here’s the genius part, it’s actually a clever nod to the comics. In the original series, Shrinking Ray was never a major enough character for anyone to pay much attention to, and by using this scene, they subtly acknowledge the source material. Striking off “Ray” also symbolizes that while Shrinking Ray is supposed to be dead by this point, Shrinking Rae is not.
It’s a rare example of a show adapting a minor character and improving them in a way that doesn’t feel forced or unnecessary. Rae doesn’t just exist for the sake of diversity or as a token update, she’s a fully realized character who brings something new to the table.
Invincible’s willingness to remix its source material while acknowledging its own bold choices is part of what makes it such a standout adaptation. Whether you love or hate these changes, you have to admit, it’s fun watching the show have a good laugh at its own expense.
And with Shrinking Rae getting the development her comic counterpart never did, it’s safe to say this is one creative risk that has definitely paid off. No wonder fans are so excited for what’s to come in the upcoming episodes of Invincible Season 3.
Invincible Season 3 can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video.
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