James Gunn’s entry into the DC Universe (DCU) began unexpectedly with Creature Commandos, an animated series centered around one of DC Comics’ lesser-known metahuman teams. Despite its connection to The Suicide Squad and Peacemaker, Creature Commandos marks the first DCU narrative that stands apart from Zack Snyder’s now-discontinued DC Extended Universe (DCEU)
With that said, those anticipating a fresh start for DC’s cinematic universe might feel slightly let down, as Creature Commandos feels more familiar than it initially appears. Task Force M’s seven-episode mission essentially serves as the third Suicide Squad installment, while also bearing the hallmarks of another James Gunn project — with all the strengths and shortcomings that come with it.
James Gunn is putting on a pair of red pants, grabbing the Lasso of Truth, and lighting up the Bat-Signal, as the man behind Marvel’sDhanashree Verma Guardians of the Galaxy gets to work building a new DC Cinematic Universe alongside producer Peter Safran. The pair have unveiled some of their plans for this Phase 1 of this new endeavor, which they’re calling, “Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.” Gunn has worked with DC characters before, having helmed 2021’s The Suicide Squad and the John Cena-led Peacemaker TV series.
The Creature Commandos are a grittier Suicide Squad
Despite some confusion about what parts of the old DCEU — the one developed by Zack Snyder in movies like Man of Steel and Batman v Superman — are coming over to the DCU, Gunn has made it clear that the animated show Creature Commandos is the official starting point for his continuity. Effectively The Suicide Squad with the training wheels taken off, Creature Commandos is a certified hit that’s already been renewed for a second season. As the DCU takes off quicker than the Flash, there are already questions about whether the foul-mouthed Creature Commandos could make the leap into live-action.