Creature Commandos Resolves the Confusing Canon of the DC Universe

Key Insights

James Gunn spearheads the reimagined DC Universe (DCU) with Creature Commandos as the inaugural project in “Chapter One: Gods and Monsters.”
This animated series builds on existing lore, establishing connections to earlier DCEU installments, including the Suicide Squad films and Peacemaker.
Gunn hints at future interconnectivity within the DCU, paving the way for a cohesive narrative framework.

In a significant transition for superhero storytelling, James Gunn takes control of the newly structured DC Universe (DCU), emerging from the complexities of the past DCEU. The launchpad for this revitalized era is the animated series Creature Commandos, which aims to set the stage for a broader narrative arc leading to anticipated releases like Peacemaker Season 2 and the much-anticipated Superman reboot in 2025. Following the mixed reception of two live-action Suicide Squad films, the DCU enters with an animated exploration of the eccentric Task Force M focused on supernatural themes.

Although the DCU is poised to commence anew, Creature Commandos intricately weaves references from the DCEU into its fabric. Notably, Viola Davis reprises her role as Amanda Waller, directly linking her character to the events of David Ayer’s Suicide Squad and Gunn’s follow-up film. This strategic continuity blurs the lines of a complete reboot, examining how legacy characters will exist within this new framework.

How Does Creature Commandos Fit Into DCU Canon?

As the DCU launches with Creature Commandos, it’s essential to understand its place within the established canon. The series pays homage to previous DCEU events, asserting that this is indeed the same Amanda Waller who had a pivotal role in earlier films. The first episodes firmly establish the timeline, introducing Rick Flag Sr. (voiced by Frank Grillo) as he is recruited by Waller to lead the mission. This setup also invokes the storyline where Waller’s daughter, Leota Adebayo (portrayed by Danielle Brooks), revealed Waller’s dubious governmental dealings in the finale of Peacemaker.

Additionally, Creature Commandos openly acknowledges its ties to The Suicide Squad, enhancing its narrative credibility. Gunn’s earlier work introduced crucial characters and established emotional stakes. For example, Waller notes that Weasel (voiced by Sean Gunn) survived the tumultuous mission involving Starro, creating immediate connections to prior narratives. Grillo’s dialogue further contextualizes the DCU timeline, allowing for critical character histories that audiences are already familiar with.

What Constitutes Canon in the DCU?

Despite Gunn proclaiming Creature Commandos as a fresh initiation for the DCU, some fans express confusion regarding the references to earlier films, particularly Ayer’s 2016 version of Suicide Squad. This ambiguity raises questions about the status of characters and their corresponding narratives. For instance, what does the future hold for beloved characters like Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn, especially considering her history within a now-complicated canon?

Moreover, with references to characters appearing in films like Black Adam and Shazam! Fury of the Gods, it prompts inquiries into which aspects of the DCEU remain relevant. Gunn, in discussions with The Hollywood Reporter, clarified the approach to canon:

“The rule is: If we mention [something from the past] in one of the new DCU shows [and movies], then it happened. So that’s the way we’re dealing with it.”

This statement hints at the possibility of expanded references and interpretations from previous films, awaiting further clarity as the DCU evolves. Many anticipate that the upcoming The Flash movie could serve as a turning point, ultimately reshaping the narrative landscape.

Intriguingly, the narrative complexities deepen with The Flash, which reintroduces famed actors like Ben Affleck and Michael Keaton in their iconic roles. The notion of a multiverse could redefine how the DCU incorporates past storylines and establishes its own identity. Gunn’s comments on The Flash as a possible foundation for merging the two universes further suggest that this generation of storytelling will embrace ambiguity and evolved reimaginings.

While Gunn retains a clear vision for a fresh narrative, he acknowledges that some familiar characters and arcs might still surface within this new realm, though they may not align directly with previous interpretations. Critically, he made it known that certain events, such as the Justice League’s appearance at the conclusion of Peacemaker Season 1, will not factor into the new DCU fabric. When questioned about the emergence of a new Justice League, Gunn assured fans: “They don’t exist yet.”

At this stage, the DCU appears to be embarking on a cohesive narrative trajectory, with Grillo being touted as a significant player in upcoming projects. Potentially echoing Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury from the MCU, Grillo’s Flag Sr. is set to seek vengeance in Peacemaker Season 2 and is slated for future storylines, including the new Superman film.

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