The DC Universe launches its latest venture with “Creature Commandos,” a two-episode premiere that debuted on December 5, 2024. Each episode is just twenty-three minutes long, necessitating a tightly packed narrative filled with the distinct style of director James Gunn.
***SPOILERS AHEAD***
From the outset, the first episode introduces political themes, showcasing a group of men’s rights activists collaborating with a villain for their own interests, juxtaposed against the Creature Commandos’ mission to safeguard U.S. oil interests. The characters are brought to life by Frank Grillo as Rick Flag Sr. and Viola Davis as Amanda Waller, both of whom set the tone for this unique creation. Grillo’s performance is particularly impressive given his limited voice acting experience, although Davis’s portrayal feels somewhat lackluster.
The show continues to present its eclectic cast, reminiscent of both “Suicide Squad” films. The team includes Doctor Phosphorus, The Bride, Weasel, G.I. Robot, and Nina Mazursky—collectively known as Task Force M. This shift away from traditional humans adds a new layer to the dynamic, appealing to fans of the original comics while introducing a blend of whimsy and darkness characteristic of Gunn’s work.
The opening credits feature an interesting fusion of old and modern animation styles, setting a visually appealing tone that is consistent throughout the series. However, some viewers have critiqued Gunn for possibly elevating his own profile in these credits, instead of recognizing the contributions of his collaborators.
Throughout the first episode, the mission unfolds in a fictional Eastern European nation, blending elements that feel familiar to viewers. The voice performances shine, particularly from Indira Varma and Alan Tudyk, helping carry the narrative forward. Fans can appreciate the humor as we see G.I. Robot’s comical recounting of his past battles, providing a welcome levity amid the action.
The second episode intensifies the stakes, revealing more about The Bride’s backstory and continuing to develop the conflict. Despite some entertaining action sequences, the character development feels rushed, particularly for the princess who lacks depth beyond her infatuation with Rick Flag Sr.
While engaging, there are some aspects that may unsettle some audiences, especially with The Bride’s darker narrative elements. This illustrates the intricate balance between humor, action, and more serious themes within the story.
In conclusion, “Creature Commandos” demonstrates a sound start for the new DC Universe series, combining strong voice performances, creative animation, and the quirky storytelling style of James Gunn. However, the tight episode length may restrict deeper explorations of character backstories—a challenge common to many animated shows. Despite these concerns, the show’s unique approach brings promise for the future of the DCU, and it builds on the beloved traditions of its predecessors. The overall assessment stands at a solid 7/10, indicating potential for growth and development in future episodes.
This new series ultimately reminds audiences that sometimes, embracing the unconventional can lead to exciting storytelling opportunities. Fans of James Gunn and the DC Universe have reason to remain hopeful for the direction of this new chapter.