James Gunn's ambitious attempt to reshape the DC Universe has officially kicked off with the animated series Creature Commandos, which is being touted as both the opening salvo for his new vision and a bridge connecting the previous DCEU continuity. This animated series, which features elements from Gunn's earlier projects like The Suicide Squad and Peacemaker, serves as the appetizer for what fans can expect as they move forward with the new storytelling direction.
The core of this new narrative is not about flushing away the old stories, but rather integrating and adapting them to fit within the framework of the new DC Universe. Gunn has been careful to include references from prior films, ensuring the transition feels holistic rather than disruptive. He emphasized, "Nothing is canon until Creature Commandos next year – a sort of aperitif to the DCU – and then a deep-dive with Superman," highlighting how his upcoming Superman film will function as the proper beginning of this revamped universe.
The premiere of Creature Commandos is thrilling fans as it delves headfirst back to familiar ground, with callbacks to events from Gunn's hand at the DCEU, namely the chaotic escapades involving Amanda Waller (voiced by Viola Davis) and her lethal Task Force X. For those who are unfamiliar with the lore, Task Force X comprised convicted criminals forced onto dangerous missions for the U.S. government, typically targeted toward high-stakes operations with little chance of survival, all for the promise of reduced sentences.
Creature Commandos features characters like Peacemaker, brought to life once more by John Cena, and Sean Gunn reprising his offbeat role as Weasel. But who knew Gunn would inject such depth and nuance to these animated counterparts? According to Gunn, their existence is just as valid as any major franchise player, meaning future interactions among characters can occur whether they're animated or live-action.
Another significant factor to note is how Gunn is employing the concept of 'light canon' throughout his projects. He seems determined to make specific moments from past films and series part of the current storyline so long as they are acknowledged moving forward. For example, if Creature Commandos references events from The Suicide Squad, it stamps those moments with the significance of ‘canon’ within this new narrative universe. It mimics the comic book practice where past events are adapted, either forgotten, or acknowledged to suit current storytelling needs.
Yet, it's not all rosy. Not every prior storyline or character will be making the leap to this new canon. Gunn has explicitly stated, "The Justice League doesn’t exist yet," which means many storylines from the DCEU's earlier attempts at unifying its universe through films like Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice and Justice League are now officially irrelevant. It sets up quite the intrigue as fans wonder how iconic characters will be weaving their tales moving forward without the original Justice League at their disposal.
Among the more exciting aspects of the Creature Commandos premiere is the introduction of Circe, the renowned antagonist from Wonder Woman lore, who is resurrected here for her debut. Unlike previous portrayals, Circe's entrance promises chaos, as she leads the Sons of Themyscira against Princess Ilana Rostovic in her quest to take over Pokolistan. Her departure from typical backdrop villainy showcases her as ruthless and threatening, setting the compass for future interactions within the DCU, potentially aligning with Wonder Woman herself.
The way Circe navigates her villainous persona brings to mind the conflicts she’s had with superheroes like Superman and Wonder Woman—continuity and relationships readers have been craving. Gunn seems well aware of the possibilities with more complex and morally gray villains leading the charge, instead of classic heroes merely facing down obvious threats.
“You could see Circe appearing anywhere within the DCU,” one source explained, pointing out how her character can transition to different narratives, including possible appearances throughout Gunn's planned Paradise Lost series dedicated to the Themyscira lore and the Amazons. These tales are set to parallel popular series like Game of Thrones, with political maneuvering and personal vendettas resembling the machinations within the HBO series.
Meanwhile, fans following the show look forward to its subsequent episodes as Gunn balances the animated adventure with more serious narratives. He continues to promise surprises and twists within beloved storylines as new chapters open up for exploration. Would Circe find herself facing Wonder Woman after her imminent conquest?
With two episodes under its belt and standing on the heels of Harry Potter-style wizardry, the show is tailoring itself not just to easy laughs but also sets audacious stakes from the get-go, demonstrating the type of emotionally-fueled story arcs fans expect from the DC universe. The commandos—a mixed bag of monsters and military types—hold comedy and peril together, creating relatable stakes beyond mere chaos.
Fans yearning for the next chapter of superhero and villain narratives can catch Creature Commandos streaming weekly on Max. From its blend of animated and live-action heroes to its introduction of more complex villain arcs, it is evident this series does not shy away from its formidable legacy, promising exciting adventures to come. James Gunn is clearly charting unfamiliar territory, carrying legacy tones as he creates impactful new narratives for the DC Universe.
So, whether you are a long-time fan who grew up with these comics or whether you’ve recently joined the fandom, there is plenty to anticipate as James Gunn leads this refresh of beloved icons. The new DC Universe is upon us, and with the self-proclaimed commandos standing on the front lines, it looks like there’s nowhere to go but up.