Film Review: James Gunn's The Suicide Squad (9/10)

Christian Vallejo
Sep 2
3 min read

Gunn, known for his work on the "Guardians of the Galaxy" series, directs and writes this iteration, bringing a fresh and dynamic perspective to the DC antiheroes.

James Gunn's "The Suicide Squad," released in 2021, is a bold and wildly entertaining reboot of the 2016 film, infusing the franchise with Gunn's signature style of irreverent humor, vibrant visuals, and character-driven storytelling. Gunn, known for his work on the "Guardians of the Galaxy" series, directs and writes this iteration, bringing a fresh and dynamic perspective to the DC antiheroes. The ensemble cast, including Margot Robbie reprising her role as Harley Quinn, Idris Elba as Bloodsport, and John Cena as Peacemaker, delivers performances that are both engaging and multi-dimensional. Set in the fictional island of Corto Maltese, the film follows the misadventures of Task Force X as they undertake a high-stakes mission that tests their abilities and moral boundaries.

STORY (2/2)

The story of "The Suicide Squad" takes the concept of the original film and elevates it with greater stakes, sharper humor, and more developed character arcs. The narrative focuses on a new Task Force X mission, where the team is sent to Corto Maltese to destroy evidence of a secret experiment known as "Project Starfish." Gunn's screenplay is adept at balancing a large ensemble cast, giving each character moments to shine while weaving a cohesive and engaging story. The film's setting on the politically tumultuous Corto Maltese adds layers of satire and commentary, making the story not only more interesting but also relevant. The film successfully navigates its complex plot with a mix of humor, action, and heart, though some may find the narrative's darker and more violent elements a bit jarring.

VISUALS (2/2)

Visually, "The Suicide Squad" is a feast for the eyes, showcasing Gunn's flair for combining vivid, comic-book aesthetics with gritty realism. The cinematography is dynamic, perfectly capturing the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the film's action sequences. The use of CGI and practical effects is impressively balanced, bringing to life the more fantastical elements of the story, like King Shark and Starro the Conqueror, in a believable way. The film's visual style complements its tone, enhancing both the comedic and dramatic moments.

SOUND (1.5/2)

The sound design and soundtrack are standout aspects of "The Suicide Squad." Gunn's choice of music adds a unique and fitting backdrop to the film, enhancing both its emotional depth and its irreverent humor. The sound effects are impactful and well-integrated, particularly in the action sequences, which are both intense and rhythmically engaging. The audio balance between dialogue, effects, and music is expertly handled, ensuring a seamless and immersive auditory experience.

CHARACTER (1.5/2)

"The Suicide Squad" excels in its character development. Margot Robbie's Harley Quinn continues to be a standout, bringing depth and nuance to the character. Idris Elba's Bloodsport provides a compelling and relatable center to the film, while John Cena's Peacemaker offers a perfect blend of humor and menace. The supporting characters, including Ratcatcher 2, King Shark, and Polka-Dot Man, are given meaningful arcs, adding to the film's emotional impact. The performances are strong across the board, with each actor embracing the unique traits of their characters, contributing to a dynamic and engaging ensemble.

FACTOR X (2/2)

Personally, I found "The Suicide Squad" to be a highly enjoyable film, marked by its creative freedom and willingness to take risks. Gunn's distinct voice as a filmmaker shines through, making the film a standout in the superhero genre. It's a film that doesn't take itself too seriously but still delivers on action, character development, and thematic depth.

In conclusion, James Gunn's "The Suicide Squad" is a successful reimagining of the franchise, offering a blend of humor, action, and heart that was missing in its predecessor. The film's bold approach to storytelling, combined with its strong visual and sound design, makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre. Available in theaters and on streaming platforms, it appeals to both fans of the original comics and newcomers to the franchise. "The Suicide Squad" stands as a testament to Gunn's talent as a filmmaker and the potential of the superhero genre to continually reinvent itself.