Where The ‘Atom Eve’ Special Fits Into Your ‘Invincible’ Watch Order

The ‘Invincible’ fandom has seen tremendous growth since the Prime Video adult animated series first premiered, and with new seasons expanding the timeline, many viewers are revisiting the series. A common question arises in fan discussions: when should you watch the ‘Atom Eve’ special?

Not categorized under any numbered season, the special runs for nearly an hour and was released at an unusual time in the calendar. The short answer is that there are two viable options for incorporating the prequel episode into your viewing order, depending on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown of its chronological placement, the timing of its release, and its significance to Samantha Wilkins’s story.

Chronologically, the standalone episode serves as a prequel occurring before season 1. It follows Samantha Wilkins as she discovers her superpowers in childhood and confronts a family she never knew existed.

In terms of release order, the episode debuted between seasons 1 and 2. Robert Kirkman announced this surprise standalone at San Diego Comic-Con, and it premiered globally on Prime Video on July 21, 2023, coinciding with its screening at SDCC. The release also included the reveal of the season 2 premiere date.

With a runtime of approximately 56 minutes, it is longer than a typical ‘Invincible’ episode but shorter than a full-length feature. Gillian Jacobs reprises her role as Atom Eve, joined by Aria Kane and Jazlyn Ione, who voice younger versions of Samantha. The cast also features one of Lance Reddick’s final voice performances as the character Erickson.

There are two recommended viewing orders, both of which are valid. For those who prefer a chronological experience, it’s best to watch the ‘Atom Eve’ standalone before diving into season 1, as it is the earliest on the timeline. Alternatively, if you favor release order, the ideal placement is right before the start of season 2.

The most popular suggestion among fans is to watch it after completing season 1 and before starting season 2. Many guides argue that this order enhances the viewing experience, adding depth to Eve’s character before her significant arc begins. The pacing of the reveals tends to resonate more once viewers are familiar with her future in the main storyline.

It’s important to note that the prequel is largely self-contained. While it can be skipped without losing track of the main plot, it enriches several emotional moments that pay off in later episodes.

The special delves deeper than the surface details introduced in season 1. It reveals that Samantha was created in a lab through experiments led by Dr. Elias Brandyworth, who was tasked by federal authorities to develop a human mega weapon. Stephen Root voices the unsettling scientist behind this initiative.

The episode also confirms that Eve has several secret siblings, as her biological mother Polly did not die during Samantha’s birth but was instead used by the Pentagon as a surrogate for further experiments. This leads to a tragic arc where Eve confronts her so-called Phases 1, 2, and 3 in a climactic battle that does not conclude as she hopes.

Additionally, the episode expands on her abilities in detail. Viewers witness how a young Eve evolves from merely identifying atoms around her to actually manipulating and wielding them. This groundwork provides a clearer internal logic for every subsequent ‘Invincible’ fight involving Eve, which pays off in the following seasons.

Reception has been positive from both fans and critics alike. The special holds a 7.6 IMDb rating, with reviewers noting it as a pleasant surprise that deepens Eve’s character far beyond what was possible in season 1. Cosplay enthusiasts at the Comic-Con panel even seemed to anticipate the announcement before it was officially revealed.

The voice acting and animation received commendations as well. Many reviewers highlighted that the animation appears to have improved from the previous season, and the special includes a mid-credits scene worth waiting for. The action also pushes Eve’s matter-manipulation powers further than the main series had explored up to that point.

In an interview with Den of Geek at their SDCC studio, Kirkman explained the rationale behind the surprise release. He mentioned that the team aimed to provide fans with an exciting piece of content while they awaited the November premiere. This mission was clearly successful. Whether you opt for the chronological approach by starting with the prequel or use it as a bridge between seasons 1 and 2, the ‘Atom Eve’ standalone remains one of the franchise’s most compelling character explorations.