Who knew that a ragtag group of undead and misfit characters could breathe so much life into the DCU? James Gunn strikes gold again with Creature Commandos, a show that’s part animated chaos, part heartfelt drama, and all-around fantastic.
The voice work here is next-level. Indira Varma, Sean Gunn, Alan Tudyk, Zoe Chao, David Harbour, Frank Grillo, and the legend herself, Viola Davis, deliver performances that elevate the show. Seriously, this cast is firing on all cylinders. The show wastes no time—the character introductions are as efficient as they are intriguing. From Rick Flag Sr. to the heartbreakingly poetic Frankenstein, each character gets their moment to shine without dragging down the pace. Plus, the continuity nods (hello, Rick Flag Jr. and those Suicide Squad Easter eggs) are a treat for fans. Gunn really knows how to reward loyalty. Gunn’s decision to have actors voice both live-action and animated versions of their characters is a stroke of genius. It bolsters continuity and builds confidence in the DCU’s future. If Creature Commandos is a taste of what’s to come, then DC is in excellent hands.
Frankenstein being cheated on? It’s oddly relatable, devastating, and kind of hilarious all at once. And The Bride’s backstory? Comedy gold. Her dynamic with Frank adds layers of humor and heart, reminding us that even monsters have messy love lives. Who’d have thought that Weasel, the character everyone dismissed as a gag, would turn out to be a fan favorite? Gunn’s genius lies in making you root for the underdog (or under-weasel?). By the end of his backstory, you’re not just empathizing with him—you’re respecting him. Bravo. Oh, the Rick vs. Phosphorus showdown—it’s not just a fight; it’s a symphony of chaos scored with an epic soundtrack that’ll have you on the edge of your seat. This scene alone is worth the watch and proves why soundtracks matter.
The animation—courtesy of Studio I AM—is clean, distinctive, and visually striking. Meanwhile, the soundtrack is a perfect companion to the on-screen chaos, amplifying every scene’s emotional punch or comedic beat. First impressions matter, and Creature Commandos knows it. The intro is a visual feast with a theme song that’s an earworm in the best way. You’ll be humming it long after you’ve binged the season. It sets the tone perfectly—zany, bold, and unapologetically fun. The show’s structure is genius: a mainstay storyline interspersed with origin stories for the characters. It’s a clever way to keep the plot moving while giving each member of the Creature Commandos the spotlight they deserve.
Speaking of rewards, this season serves up a buffet of storytelling genres. Action? Check. Love? Check. Comedy? Drama? Existential crises? Check, check, and triple check. It’s a mix that works surprisingly well, tied together by Gunn’s sharp writing and knack for balancing absurdity with genuine emotion.
This show proves that lesser-known characters can captivate audiences when given the right treatment. Gunn has a proven track record of transforming D-listers into A-listers (see: Guardians of the Galaxy), and Creature Commandos is no exception. Here’s hoping the DCU’s next chapters follow this winning formula.
Creature Commandos is a near-perfect start to the DCU’s next phase. It’s witty, heartfelt, and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re a die-hard DC fan or a casual viewer, this show has something for everyone. It’s not just a story about monsters; it’s a story about finding humanity in the unlikeliest of places. Bravo, James Gunn. Bravo.