Loki, the God of Mischief in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is a popular and complex character known for his morally ambiguous nature. With the release of the Disney+ series Loki in 2021, more layers of the character have been revealed, including Loki coming face-to-face with variant versions of himself from across the multiverse.
One particular scene from Loki has sparked much discussion amongst fans – a moment in the finale episode where Loki and Sylvie, a female variant of Loki, share an intimate moment and appear to kiss. This has raised the question – did Loki really kiss his variant self? Let’s take a deeper look at the context and events surrounding this scene to try to determine what happened.
Examining Loki and Sylvie’s Relationship
Throughout the events of Loki, Loki and Sylvie form a growing bond as they work together to try and take down the Time Variance Authority (TVA). Starting off as adversaries, they eventually become allies and even friends, as they discover they have a lot in common as variants of the same being.
There are hints of a budding romantic connection between them, though the development of their relationship is complex. On the one hand, Sylvie is a variant of Loki, so they are essentially the same person. On the other hand, they have led very different lives and have distinct personalities. Loki even calls Sylvie by her chosen name, recognizing her as separate from himself.
Key Moments Between Loki and Sylvie
Here are some of the key moments that give insight into Loki and Sylvie’s relationship:
- When they first meet, there is instant chemistry and intrigue between them.
- They open up to each other, bonding over being treated as outcasts by others.
- Loki wants to know Sylvie’s real name, but she refuses to tell him.
- There are moments of physical tension, like when Sylvie pulls Loki close with her mind control powers.
- They work together using their powers – Loki’s illusions and Sylvie’s mind control abilities.
- Sylvie comforts Loki after he discovers difficult truths about his past and identity.
- There are lingering glances and hands touching between them as their trust grows.
These moments demonstrate a complex dynamic between them, with both platonic and romantic undertones. While they bond as friends and allies, there also seems to be an unspoken attraction.
Analyzing the Context of the “Kiss” Scene
In the finale episode of Loki, Loki and Sylvie finally reach the mysterious “man behind the curtain” – He Who Remains – the mastermind behind the TVA. This sets up the key moment where the apparent kiss occurs.
Here is some context to understand:
- Sylvie and Loki now know they’ve been manipulated by He Who Remains their whole lives.
- They have a chance to kill He Who Remains, which would send the timeline into uncontrolled chaos.
- Sylvie wants vengeance, but Loki hesitates, feeling uncertain about the consequences.
- In this emotional conversation, Loki reveals he understands Sylvie’s pain and just wants her to be okay.
- The music swells as they appear to lean towards each other for a kiss.
However, right before their lips meet, Sylvie sends Loki back to the TVA using a TemPad, against his will. She then proceeds to kill He Who Remains alone.
Examining Whether the “Kiss” Actually Happened
There are a few pieces of evidence that suggest Loki and Sylvie did not actually kiss:
- Their lips do not appear to make contact before Sylvie sends Loki away.
- The scene cuts away right before the moment their lips would have touched.
- Sylvie sends Loki away, hinting she is rejecting any romance between them.
- The music and lighting make the moment symbolic rather than literal.
However, there are also signs indicating the opposite:
- Loki and Sylvie clearly lean in towards each other in a way that suggests a kiss.
- The tender moment happens after an emotional heart-to-heart conversation.
- Loki and Sylvie’s facial expressions are intimate and affectionate.
- The stage direction likely called for a “near-kiss” to be acted out.
Overall, it remains ambiguous whether Loki and Sylvie actually kiss before being separated. But the heaviness of the moment is clear, as their deep connection becomes evident.
Perspectives on Whether Loki Should Kiss His Variant
There are also divided perspectives on whether Loki and Sylvie kissing would be appropriate given their situation:
Against Loki Kissing His Variant
- As variants of the same being, it could be seen as a form of self-love.
- It raises concerns about narcissism and incest taboos.
- Their different life experiences may not outweigh their similarities as variants.
- It could make some viewers uncomfortable given the quasi-incestuous overtones.
In Support of Loki Kissing His Variant
- Loki and Sylvie have lived completely different lives that shaped them differently.
- Their connection and attraction grew organically as they bonded.
- The heart wants what the heart wants – they can’t help how they feel.
- Their status as mythical gods and fictional characters gives more leeway.
There are good-faith arguments on both sides of this debate. Ultimately, reasonable people can disagree on whether Loki kissing his variant in this context would be appropriate.
The Meaning and Significance of the Scene
Whether the kiss literally happened or not, the scene carries symbolic weight. Here are some of the key takeaways:
- It represents a critical moment of intimacy and vulnerability between Loki and Sylvie.
- It highlights the depth of their emotional connection as variants of one another.
- It shows Loki is capable of caring about more than just himself.
- It demonstrates Loki’s character growth over the course of the series.
- It emphasizes the theme of self-love, as Loki learns to accept himself.
So while the kiss itself may remain ambiguous, the interplay between Loki and Sylvie in this scene is loaded with meaning.
Fan Reactions and Theories About the Scene
The moment dividing Loki and Sylvie has become iconic amongst Loki fans and sparked much discussion online. Here are some of the key fan reactions:
- Many find it very romantic and emotional. They “ship” Loki and Sylvie.
- Some argue it would be inappropriate for Loki to kiss his variant.
- Fans debate whether the kiss “really happened” or was left purposefully vague.
- Most agree the scene captures a pivotal point in Loki and Sylvie’s relationship.
- Many were disappointed the kiss got interrupted before becoming definite.
In terms of theories about the scene, fans speculate:
- Sylvie sending Loki away reflects her fear of intimacy.
- Loki and Sylvie may reunite in a future season.
- The ambiguous kiss leaves the door open for their relationship to continue.
- It relates to the overall theme of Loki learning to love himself.
The scene certainly got fans talking and wanting more development between Loki and Sylvie! Their bond continues to be one of the most intriguing parts of the series.
Conclusion
The brief but intense moment where Loki and Sylvie seem to almost kiss is one of the most gripping scenes from Loki. While it remains open to interpretation whether their lips literally touched, the emotion and meaning behind their interaction is impactful.
This scene captures a pivotal stage in Loki and Sylvie’s complex relationship as variants. It reveals Loki’s capacity for vulnerability, connection, and growth. The fallout from their fractured bond shapes the climax of the season and likely the future of the series.
Fans are still debating many angles of this scene – from its romantic implications to its deeper symbolism. But undoubtedly, it was a stand-out moment that highlighted themes of self-reflection, intimacy, and duality at the heart of Loki’s journey. Their brief but intense encounter will have a lasting impact as their adventures through time continue to unfold in new and unexpected ways.