Suicide Squad Review: Quality, Characters, and Box Office Performance Compared

Ah, the Suicide Squad. A group of villains turned heroes, sort of. The idea brings chaos, humor, and explosions. We've seen a few movies and even games about this crew. But why the mixed feelings? Do people think one movie is truly good? And who are these characters? Let’s explore the messy world of the Suicide Squad.

General Reception and Quality: Squad Goals or Squad Fails?

Let’s talk about the reception. The responses to the Suicide Squad movies have been varied. First, there's the 2016 Suicide Squad. Then, there's 2021's The Suicide Squad. Notice the "The"? It's like a statement that this version is the one they meant to create earlier.

Why the 2016 Suicide Squad Got Sideswiped

The 2016 Suicide Squad didn’t receive praise. Instead, it garnered harsh criticism. What caused this? Let’s analyze it like Amanda Waller with a villain’s will.

Script Shenanigans: The script was disorganized. Jokes felt forced and awkward. It lacked narrative coherency and felt like random scenes, not a full story.

Visuals: Style Over Substance?: Visually, it aimed for gritty but ended up cluttered. Costume and set design had brilliance. Overall, it didn’t consistently impress. Think about wearing too many accessories at once. Sometimes simpler is better.

Editing Room Floor Mayhem: The editing was "choppy." Scenes felt poorly stitched together, ruining flow. It resembled assembling IKEA furniture with confusing instructions - chaotic.

Special Effects – Special, but not in a Good Way?: Special effects varied from average to poorly made. In this type of movie, effects need to shine. Unfortunately, many fell flat, losing some intended excitement.

Development Drama – A Toxic Brew: Behind the scenes, reports of chaotic development emerged. A "toxic culture of perfectionism" resulted in confusion. The movie reflected that troubled process.

The Suicide Squad (2021): A Redemption Arc?

Then came James Gunn and The Suicide Squad (2021). Was it an improvement? Yes, compared to its predecessor, it felt like fresh air. Many viewed it as a better version. Why did audiences respond positively to this sequel?

Reasons for the Rebound:

• Character Deep Dive:The Suicide Squad worked on character development. These were not just quirky villains; they had motivations and arcs that drew us in.
• Gunn's Guiding Hand: James Gunn infused dark humor and heart into the project. He balanced absurdity and genuine emotion, crafting a fluent "Suicide Squad" feel.
• Bloody, Disreputable, and Lovable?: Critics called it "invigorating" comic-book cinema. It embraced darker themes and made these villains "lovable anti-heroes." Who knew they could be so relatable?
• Emotional Adventure: Surprisingly, amidst explosions, The Suicide Squad offered emotional depth. It had stakes and connections, making the story resonate more.

Box Office Blues and the Bottom Line

Despite harsh criticism, the 2016 Suicide Squad made over $749 million. It broke box office records. Sometimes bad movies perform well. Was it curiosity? Perhaps Harley Quinn's pigtails have a hypnotic effect. For whatever reason, it succeeded at the box office.

Is Suicide Squad (2016) worth watching? Likely not unless you enjoy punishment. Is The Suicide Squad (2021) worth it? Yes. It’s chaotic, fun, and well-made. It captures what makes the concept compelling.

Plot and Purpose: What's the Point, Waller?

So, these movies exist, villains appear, and explosions abound. What’s the real purpose? What are these Suicide Squad missions about?

Mission: Impossible (for Supervillains)

In The Suicide Squad (2021), the concept is oddly simple, yet wild. Amanda Waller gathers a new batch of expendable supervillains for a mission. They must infiltrate Corto Maltese and eliminate Starro the Conqueror. Starro is a giant alien starfish. This mission demands urgency before it gets into enemy hands.

The objective? Go in, create chaos, and ensure Starro's defeat. Oh, and don’t die – that's the tough part. Let's face it, survival is the biggest prize in this scenario.

Game On: Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League

The game Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League introduces more chaos. Set five years after Arkham Knight, Brainiac invades Metropolis. He aims to control minds. Guess what? He manages to mind-control the Justice League too. Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman – all now hostile.

Amanda Waller assembles the Squad to... eliminate the Justice League. It's a huge upgrade! Stopping a giant starfish turns into stopping Superman. The Squad must face Brainiac while taking down corrupted heroes.

Why "Suicide Squad"? Because "Expendable Squad" Was Too On the Nose

No matter if it's about defeating alien starfish or mind-controlled heroes, the Suicide Squad's mission remains: handle what others can’t or won’t with a team society deems expendable. It’s dark and grim, but that’s the Squad’s reality.

Character Analysis: From Best to Weasel-y

The essence of the Suicide Squad lies in characters. They form a dysfunctional family of villains, each with unique craziness and skills. Who stands out among them as MVPs, favorites, and downright weasels?

Character Tier List: Who's Top of the Villainous Heap?

If ranking characters by popularity for Suicide Squad goes,

we get something like this (brace yourselves, opinions may vary, and internet arguments may ensue):

1. Captain Boomerang: Surprisingly, Captain Boomerang often tops fan lists. It's likely the Aussie charm or the absurdity of his weapon. Boomerang seems to win hearts or at least amused tolerance.
2. Deadshot: A master marksman with a tragic backstory. Deadshot has a soft spot for his daughter. He’s cool, collected, and lethal. He’s the professional assassin in the group, bringing competence and brooding to chaos.
3. King Shark: Nom nom nom! King Shark is the lovable powerhouse of the team. He’s simple, he’s hungry, and he’s a humanoid shark. What’s not to love? Plus, he’s voiced by Sylvester Stallone in The Suicide Squad, which is inherently awesome.
4. Harley Quinn: Of course, Harley Quinn ranks high. She’s chaotic, unpredictable, and iconic. Margot Robbie’s portrayal cements her as a fan favorite, bringing manic energy and depth to the character.

These characters are top tier in fan love. Individual preferences vary. However, these characters resonate most with audiences.

Strongest Squad Members: Muscle and Mayhem

Strength isn’t just brute force; it's effectiveness on a chaotic battlefield. Here’s a power ranking of key Suicide Squad members (main movie characters only for simplicity):

1. King Shark: Unquestionably the powerhouse. Super strength, durability, and a healing factor make him tough to take down. Plus, he’s a shark. Sharks are tough.
2. Clayface: (Game only) Clayface is a shapeshifting powerhouse. Immense strength and body morphing make him formidable. He’s a walking, talking, shape-shifting tank.
3. Peacemaker: Dedicated to peace, no matter how many people he kills to achieve it. Peacemaker excels in fighting and marksmanship. His commitment to his ideals makes him dangerous.
4. Harley Quinn: Don’t underestimate Harley. Not super-powered traditionally, she’s agile, unpredictable, and skilled in combat. She's also fearless.
5. Deadshot: Master marksman, expert combatant. His accuracy is legendary. Deadshot takes down targets from miles away and is deadly in close combat. He’s the sniper extraordinaire.
6. Rick Flag: The leader, the soldier, the (relatively) sane one. A highly trained military man, skilled in combat and leadership. He’s relatable and slightly out of place.

Deadshot vs. Bloodsport: Marksman Showdown

Deadshot and Bloodsport are expert marksmen with daddy issues. Both played by Idris Elba at some point (Will Smith played Deadshot in 2016's Suicide Squad). Are they carbon copies? Not quite.

Bloodsport – Humble and Haunted: Bloodsport from The Suicide Squad (2021) is humble and reluctant. Haunted by his past and his relationship with his daughter, he has a gruff exterior but a vulnerability beneath. His crippling fear of rats is both hilarious and potentially fatal.

Deadshot – Cocky and Confident: Deadshot in 2016 is confident, even cocky. He knows he's good and shows it. Motivated by money and his love for his daughter, he projects a hardened, professional persona.

In pure skill, they’re top-tier marksmen. However, their personalities and motivations differ, making them distinct. Bloodsport’s journey is about overcoming his past. Deadshot focuses on reputation and familial obligations.

Deadshot vs. Peacemaker: Who's the Sharper Shooter?

Now, Deadshot versus Peacemaker is another marksman showdown! Who wins in a sharpshooting duel?

Deadshot – Precision and Experience: Deadshot has renowned accuracy and range. He never misses his shots and can hit targets from incredible distances (like 2.49 miles away). A seasoned combatant, he can hold his own against superpowered foes.

Peacemaker – Ruthless and Relentless: Peacemaker is a skilled marksman, but his defining trait is extreme dedication to his mission. He'll do anything for peace, including starting wars. He’s physically imposing and efficient in combat, portrayed as stronger than Deadshot.

While Deadshot is skilled and experienced, Peacemaker's ruthlessness and physical prowess might give him an edge in a confrontation. It's close, but Peacemaker's "unconventional" approach may tip the scales.

Weasel and King Shark: The Wild Cards

Don’t forget the truly unique members of the Squad like Weasel and King Shark.

Weasel – Furry and... Functional?: Weasel is a weasel or at least looks like a mangy werewolf. Retrieved from solitary confinement for his "skills," his primary talent seems to be looking bewildered and terrifying. Surprisingly agile in combat, babysitting? Not recommended.

King Shark – Hungry, Hungry Hippo-Shark: King Shark is a humanoid hammerhead. Tortured and forced into the Suicide Squad by Amanda Waller, he has a simple motivation: food. He famously ate Yo-Yo in The Suicide Squad, though Yo-Yo survived. King Shark is strong, durable, and has a voracious appetite.

These characters exemplify the chaotic and unpredictable nature of the Squad. They are wild cards, seldom reliable, but often deliver memorable moments.

Harley Quinn: Puddin', Personality Disorders, and Potential Replacements

Ah, Harley Quinn. The queen of chaos, the jester of justice (sort of) and arguably the most iconic member of the Squad. Let's delve into Dr. Harleen Quinzel's world, turned Harley Quinn.

Why Harley's in the Squad: Forced Fun

Harley Quinn's origin story has variations, but the core remains: Dr. Harleen Quinzel, psychiatrist at Arkham Asylum, falls for her patient, the Joker. In most versions, he manipulates and corrupts her, pushing her into madness and transforming her into Harley Quinn. The movie adds the acid vat dip, bleaching her skin and solidifying her transformation.

As for why she's in the Squad? Amanda Waller. Waller sees Harley's skillset (unpredictability, combat prowess, sheer craziness) as an asset. Harley is forced to join the Squad under threat of... well, Waller is persuasive. Explosives in the neck help.

Margot Robbie's Harley: Future Uncertain?

Margot Robbie's portrayal of Harley Quinn has been a hit. She's played Harley in Suicide Squad (2016), Birds of Prey (2020), and The Suicide Squad (2021). But what's next for Robbie?

No confirmed return for Margot Robbie as Harley Quinn in the DCU exists. James Gunn, co-head of DC Studios, has expressed interest in working with her again. However, nothing concrete is in the works. Intriguingly, Robbie stated she’s open to others playing Harley Quinn. She envisions Harley reinterpreted by different actors over time.

Lady Gaga as Harley? Joker's New Jester

Lady Gaga will play Harley Quinn in Joker: Folie à Deux, sequel to Joker (2019). This is significant, but Joker: Folie à Deux is set in a separate universe from the main DCU. So, it won't replace Margot Robbie’s Harley in the primary continuity.

interpretation of the character.

Margot Robbie is excited about Lady Gaga. She stated, "Oh my God, she's going to crush it. Are you kidding? She's going to be amazing, I can't wait to see it." High praise from Harley herself! It shows a sense of excitement, not rivalry, about the character's future.

Harley's Mind: Histrionic Personality Disorder

Harley Quinn's mental state is complex. The term "crazy" is often used, but it’s more nuanced. Harley shows traits of Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD). HPD is about excessive emotionality and attention-seeking. This fits her flamboyant character and need for attention.

Her relationship with the Joker makes things worse. It’s unhealthy, codependent, and abusive. Her obsession with the Joker and her need for his approval drive her character, rooted in manipulation and trauma.

Harley and Joker: Love, or Something Like It?

Does Harley love the Joker in Suicide Squad? Yes, in her twisted way. Does the Joker love Harley? That’s debatable. The film shows the Joker's feelings as complex. He uses her, but if there’s real affection beneath the psychopathy is open for interpretation.

In Suicide Squad, Harley jumps into acid to prove her love for the Joker, mirroring her comic book origins. This act shows her misguided devotion. However, their relationship is toxic and one-sided. The Joker seeks chaos and control while using Harley as a tool.

Later shows, like the Harley Quinn series, explore Harley breaking free from the Joker. She realizes their relationship was abusive, not based on true love. This growth is significant in her arc, moving her beyond being just "Joker's girlfriend." She becomes more independent and complex.

"Puddin'": Harley's Sweet (and Slightly Sinister) Nickname

"Puddin'." Harley's famous catchphrase and affectionate term for the Joker. It’s playful and slightly creepy, capturing their dynamic.

The nickname started in Batman: The Animated Series, made popular by voice actress Arleen Sorkin. It reflects their chaotic relationship and represents Harley Quinn. The term has become synonymous with her character, appearing in comics, shows, and games. It’s a little bit of affectionate madness.

Harley Before Robbie: Almost Wilde, Maybe Roberts?

Before Margot Robbie, other actresses were considered for Harley. Emma Roberts was approached, but it didn’t work. Amanda Seyfried was also in the mix. Olivia Wilde was another name tossed around. Ultimately, Margot Robbie got the role. Her portrayal is now seen as the definitive version for many.

Joker's Absence: Where's Jared Leto?

Jared Leto's Joker in Suicide Squad (2016) was divisive. Some loved his edgy take; others... not so much. But where was he in The Suicide Squad (2021)? And will we see him again?

Joker MIA: Narrative Necessity, Not Performance Penalty

The Joker's absence in The Suicide Squad (2021) wasn’t due to Leto's performance. James Gunn, the director, stated it was a narrative choice. The Joker did not fit into the story he wanted to tell.

Gunn didn't bring back the Joker as he didn’t see how he would fit into the war situation presented in the film. The story focused on different characters and a specific mission. Including the Joker would have felt forced or unnecessary. It was a creative decision to keep the narrative tight.

Will Leto Laugh Again? Joker's Future Uncertain

Will Jared Leto play the Joker again? It’s uncertain. Leto has said he's "open" to reprising the role if given the chance. He shows enthusiasm for the character. However, there are no confirmed plans for him to reprise the role in upcoming DC projects.

There were rumors of a solo Joker movie starring and produced by Leto, but its status is unclear. With the DC universe changing, Leto's Joker's future remains uncertain. While he has interest, no projects are confirmed. For now, Leto's Joker is a memorable chapter in cinematic history.

Squad Showdown: 2016 vs. 2021

Suicide Squad (2016) versus The Suicide Squad (2021). It’s a cinematic face-off, a battle of styles and tone. What are the main differences between these two versions of the Squad?

Character Development: From Flat to Fleshed Out

A major improvement in The Suicide Squad (2021) is character development. The 2016 film showed characters as archetypes with little depth. They felt quirky but also one-dimensional.

The Suicide Squad (2021), under James Gunn, focused on character depth. We see motivations, vulnerabilities, and conflicts. Characters like Bloodsport, Peacemaker, and even King Shark are given arcs that were missing from the previous film. This depth made it more engaging and resonant.

Essentially, The Suicide Squad (2021) treated characters as real individuals, not just costumes and catchphrases. This focus on development is why the 2021 film is seen as superior to its predecessor.

Production Locations: Squads Around the World

Where do you shoot a movie about supervillains on a dangerous mission? Let’s check filming locations for both Suicide Squad films.

Toronto to Panama: Squad Sets the Scene

Suicide Squad (2016): This film mainly shot in Toronto and Chicago. Toronto stood in for various locations while Chicago offered urban backdrops. These spots created a versatile visual world.

The Suicide Squad (2021): This production went international. Filming occurred in Panama, Puerto Rico, Portugal, and Atlanta. Panama and Puerto Rico provided lush settings needed for Corto Maltese. Portugal gave European-like locales, while Atlanta provided studio facilities. These diverse locations gave the 2021 film vibrant visuals.

Plot Points: Weasels, Aftermaths, and Squad Nicknames

Let's clarify some plot points and lingering questions in the Suicide Squad universe.

Weasel's Fate: Not So Dead After All?

What happened to Weasel at the end of The Suicide Squad? Initially, it seemed definitive: Weasel drowned upon reaching Corto Maltese. The team mourned his demise. However, in a comic twist, Weasel survived! He was last seen wandering Corto Maltese, still being... weaselly.

So, Weasel is alive out there. Whether he’ll return in future Suicide Squad adventures is uncertain. But in comics, no one is truly gone until you see their body... and maybe not even then.

After 2016: Setting the DC Timeline

What happened in the DC movie timeline after Suicide Squad? The DC Extended Universe timeline is complicated. Chronologically, here’s a rough placement:

• Black Adam follows the events of The Suicide Squad.
• Shazam! Fury of the Gods comes after Black Adam.
• The Flash has multiverse events set around the same time as Shazam! Fury of the Gods.

So,