James Gunn recognizes the ridiculousness of The Suicide Squad and fully leans in resulting in an action packed, gory, hilarious comic book film.
The Suicide Squad is clearly a creation of James Gunn, where the director was able to go completely wild. Once again successfully introducing some of the strangest and most obscure characters from the comic book catalogues. Gunn finds a way to combine chaotic comedy, impressive action sequences that are reminiscent of the great 80’s action films, and heart as he dives into each of these characters. The way he balances the different characters and evolving story is impressive and shows why he was the right choice for the sheer absurdity that is the concept and characters of The Suicide Squad.
The action in The Suicide Squad is truly next level, with the goriness and violence making this undoubtedly the bloodiest DC movie to date. Countless action sequences stand out including an all-out beach front battle where numerous members of the Suicide Squad show off their odd abilities, a one-woman Harley Quinn assault, and the spectacular final fight sequence. The action adds a layer to the film that James Gunn hasn’t been able to flex with his work in the MCU and the blood and gore that the film boasts along with the profanity, earns The Suicide Squad its R-rating in the best way.
The Suicide Squad is filled with comedy from the start, be it slap stick, dark gallows humor, clever quips, or leaning into the absurdity and sometimes horror of the story. Amanda Waller’s team who monitor the Suicide Squad are an unexpectedly enjoyable element with the gallows humor that they infuse into the start of the film an excellent way to set the tone.
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One of the best comedic dynamics in The Suicide Squad is between John Cena’s Peacemaker and Idris Elba’s Bloodsport who have a competitive streak from the very moment they meet. One of the great scenes that embodies exactly what The Suicide Squad is shows Bloodsport and Peacemaker facing off to not only see who can get the most kills, but also to prove who is the most badass as well, all the while ridiculing each other.
Even with the comedy and action taking center stage Gunn still brings pathos to these characters. Polka-Dot Man for how ridiculous his powers are has one of the most heart wrenching origin stories. While Daniela Melchior, who plays Ratcatcher 2, is a stand out. She manages to bring a level of empathy to the character that truly makes her the heart of the film.
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Gunn’s take on Starro is also an interesting concept that gives the ludicrous character an unexpected level sympathy. For a film full of phenomenal action sequences and hilarious comedy beats Gunn manages to make one care about a girl who controls rats, a man who uses multi-colored polka dots as weapons, a giant star fish, and many others.
HARLEY QUINN ONCE AGAIN IS A STAND OUT IN THE SUICIDE SQUAD
And once again Margot Robbie absolutely slays as Harley Quinn with her storyline in The Suicide Squad continuing the arc started in Suicide Squad (2016) and Birds of Prey. Although she is separated from the group for a while, it works for no other reason than this is Harley Quinn and that feels almost expected at this point. Harley has truly established herself outside of Joker and has a phenomenal scene where she proves that she has not only moved on from the Clown Prince of Crime, but learned from that past dysfunctional relationship.
And in a movie chock full of standout set pieces Robbie has another action-packed scene where she takes on a hallway full of enemies and proves Harley Quinn can take care of herself. Harley Quinn once again has some of the most fantastical and beautifully comic book inspired visuals in the film and the collaboration between Gunn and Robbie has resulted in a beautiful next step in the saga of Harley Quinn in DC movies.
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While the film isn’t perfect and can feel a bit overstuffed at times, at the end of the day The Suicide Squad is an undeniably fun comic book movie that knows and fully leans into exactly what it is. James Gunn knows what he does best with this genre and once again succeeds. The Suicide Squad may be jam packed full of characters that most audience members have never heard of, but he manages to make a movie that will be a blast for hardcore DC fans and the general audience alike.
The Suicide Squad will make fans even more excited for the highly anticipated spin-off series Peacemaker and any other DC properties the director wants to take on. The Suicide Squad is definitely a film that – if possible and safe – should be seen on the big screen to truly appreciate the film as it is meant to be experienced.
The Suicide Squad will simultaneously be released in theaters and on HBO Max August 6, 2021. Are you going to see The Suicide Squad? What are you most excited to see in the film? Leave your thoughts in the comments below or on our social media.
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