Marvel Studios had a specific vision for Nick Fury’s return in the upcoming Secret Invasion series. The character, played by Samuel L. Jackson, last appeared in Spider-Man: Far From Home, but his true presence was absent. Prior to that, he teamed up with Brie Larson’s Captain Marvel and encountered the shape-shifting Skrulls for the first time.
A Film-Noir Arrival
In an interview with Total Film, Secret Invasion director Ali Selim disclosed that Marvel Studios had a requirement for Nick Fury’s portrayal. They wanted him to appear as a film-noir character when making his return to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Selim explained that as the show progresses, Fury’s character transitions into more of a lone wolf, reminiscent of a western character. The director drew inspiration from films such as “The Third Man,” Clint Eastwood’s “Unforgiven,” and “The Searchers.” Marvel appreciated and embraced this approach.
Utilizing Experience From The Looming Tower
Ali Selim incorporated his experience from the television series “The Looming Tower,” which delved into the workings of the FBI and CIA, to craft Secret Invasion. This background likely contributes to the show’s unique plot element of shape-shifting antagonists, which Selim described as an excellent tool for spy and espionage storytelling. Furthermore, Selim and Samuel L. Jackson found the exploration of the concept of the “other” intriguing. Despite Nick Fury’s deep friendship with Talos, a Skrull, there is a constant sense of being on the opposite side, a theme they wanted to explore in the series.
Nick Fury’s Isolation And Paranoia
Nick Fury’s tendency towards paranoia will be brought to the forefront and amplified in Secret Invasion. The premise of the series revolves around the inability to trust anyone, even one’s closest allies. This presents Fury’s worst nightmare realized, as he must navigate a world where anyone could be a Skrull infiltrator. The show is expected to introduce Olivia Colman as Sonya Falsworth, a cold-blooded villain who may or may not be a Skrull. Alongside the Skrulls, there will likely be human adversaries, adding an extra layer of suspense and uncertainty.
Fury As A “Lone Wolf”
The idea of Nick Fury transitioning into a “lone wolf” character raises questions about his future alliances and team-building endeavors. Will his friendship with Talos come to an end? Does this mean he will no longer assemble big superhero teams as he has done in the past? These are intriguing possibilities that the series will explore, adding depth to Fury’s character development.