Skip to main content

5 Shows to Watch If You Love ‘Invincible’

mark beaten down in Invincible

It’s very intriguing to see how far animated series have come. However, all the same, we’ve had to suffer through some pretty shitty adult animated series. And in the wrong hands, a series like Invincible could’ve fallen to the same fate. Thankfully, though, Robert Kirkman knows what’s he doing in terms of nerdy, adult shows. He’s got a clear love for superheroes and handles imperfect characters well.

Recommended Videos

So, if you’re craving more adult animation that straddles the line of R-rated content (without becoming crude or gratuitous), the following animated series might be right up your alley. Live action can’t get all the brutality, right? Here are some other shows to try if you love Invincible.

Samurai Jack (2001-2004)

“Back to the past, Samurai Jack,” are lyrics from the theme song that still ring in my brain. This is a series that kicks up the nostalgia. From the web games to seeing Samurai Jack (voiced by Phil LaMarr) or Aku (Mako) somewhere. By way of Wikipedia, this is the plot of the series:

The titular character is an unnamed Japanese samurai prince who wields a mystic katana capable of cutting through virtually anything. He sets out to free his kingdom after it is taken over by an evil, shapeshifting demon known as Aku. The two engage in a fierce battle, but just as the prince is about to deal the final strike, Aku sends him forward in time to a dystopian future ruled by the tyrannical demon.

– Wikipedia

It’s been ages since I watched the series, but what I do remember is how cool the fight scenes were. And that the characters leave a lasting impression. Cartoon Network hit gold when this show was airing.

The Boondocks (2006-2014)

Here me out before you completely write this article off. The Boondocks not only explored a myriad of issues within the Black community, in particular. But it had epic fight scenes that usually involved Huey (voiced by Regina King), Riley (voiced by Regina King), and Grandad (voiced by the late John Witherspoon). And overall, the show felt like it was in a different reality altogether. Where literal children know different fighting styles and understand how to hold their own. Something that Invisible has in common with this series. Kids aren’t really allowed to be kids in that either. Plus, The Boondocks was known for its explicit language, violent scenes, and overall mature content.

Harley Quinn (2019 – )

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZ5dmafC9q8&t=16s

Who doesn’t love this chaotic icon? Harley Quinn has been portrayed quite a bit over time. Though this time it’s in the form of a dark comedy series. Personally, I’m not very far into the series, but from what I have seen it’s the perfect series for folks who actually care about her character. Harley Quinn (voiced by Kaley Cuoco) breaks it off with the Joker (voiced by Alan Tudyk) and tries to form her own identity. And also be the best villain she can be. Alongside her bestie and eventual lover, Poison Ivy (Lake Bell). There’s something so endearing about the chaos (I just love chaos, alright!). Plus, there are social issues folded in that are really relevant.

The Boys: Diabolical

Just like its live-action predecessor, The Boys: Diabolical is absolutely absurd and wildly violent. Sometimes to the point where it’s just gross. This animated series is like a box of chocolates, some of the episodes are better than others. Therefore, it’s not a total masterpiece. However, if you like Prime Video’s brand of violence and want to see an animated version of Homelander (Antony Starr), this is for you. We can certainly agree he’s horrible and played so well at the same time.

Human Resources (2022 – )

This Big Mouth is quite explicit and super funny. This time, rather than exploring the lives of middle schoolers, the focus is mainly on adults. Who are also guided (or detoured) by various creatures that work in Human Resources. It’s a really raunchy show that actually has emotional beats. Something that’s very appreciated when you think about the subject matter that’s explored. Of course, it’s hilarious as hell, sometimes a bit bloody, and all in all a great watch.

(featured image: Prime Video)

Have a tip we should know? [email protected]

Author
Vanessa Maki
Vanessa Maki (she/her) is a queer Blerd and contributing writer for The Mary Sue. She first started writing for digital magazines in 2018 and her articles have appeared in Pink Advocate (defunct), The Gay Gaze (defunct), Dread Central and more. She primarily writes about movies, TV, and anime. Efforts to make her stop loving complex/villainous characters or horror as a genre will be futile.

Filed Under:

Follow The Mary Sue: