In August of 2014, James Gunn’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” marked the up-and-coming director’s first foray into the world of Marvel comic superheroes. The movie’s instant success and the success of its two sequels cemented his reputation as a director who, when given the chance, would always try to do right by the material and fans he was given.
Almost seven years later, Gunn directed his first DC property with “The Suicide Squad.” The movie, which sits comfortably as one of the best critically rated DC movies, proved once again that Gunn was willing to take lesser-known characters and turn their stories into something new, exciting and entertaining.
Now, DC has handed Gunn and Peter Safran the reins of all of their TV and movie enterprises. Gunn wasted no time displaying his desire to turn DC’s floundering movie enterprise around. As fans eagerly await Gunn’s upcoming “Superman” movie, the first official installment of this franchise is less blockbuster and more home viewing, the first season of “Creature Commandos.”
The animated show is spectacular. James Gunn’s best work is with ensemble casts like these, especially of lesser-known characters, allowing him to breathe life into his works with the interactions of his core characters. But his writing is just one component of what makes the show so good.
Equally deserving of mention is the star-studded voice cast. As always, Viola Davis is incredible as Amanda Waller, quickly transitioning from stone-faced G-woman to moments of terror and rage with her voice alone. Frank Grillo lends his gruff, military typecast to General Rick Flag Sr., the father of Colonel Rick Flag, who appeared in both Suicide Squad films. Rounding out the voice cast are Alan Tudyk as Alex Sartorius/Dr. Phosphorus, Zoe Chao as Nina Mazursky and David Harbour and Indira Varma as Frankenstein’s Monster and the Bride of, respectively. Everyone involved gives their all, selling the world that Gunn is creating.
With season one’s conclusion, Gunn has set the stage for the years to come. He has taken a substantial step forward in regaining the trust of fans disappointed by previous DC movies and shows.
