The launch of Creature Commandos on Max surprised many fans of the DC Universe. While this animated series marks the official debut of the new DC Cinematic Universe (DCU) under the direction of James Gunn and Peter Safran, it don't do half measures. Between ultra-violent scenes, dark intrigues and shocking revelations, Creature Commandos tease a real apocalypse.
A shocking trailer: Superman, Starfire and Peacemaker crucified
After the tumultuous era of the DCEU, James Gunn and Peter Safran took the reins of the DC Universe with a clear objective: to reinvent a franchise in decline. If the next film Superman: Legacy in 2025 is presented as the real launch of this new universe, Creature Commandos positions itself as a bold introduction. This animated series, written entirely by James Gunn, is a mixture of dark humor, graphic violence, and drama, reminiscent of the tones of The Suicide Squad et Peacemaker.
At the end of the first episode, a teaser reveals an apocalyptic scene which quickly set social networks ablaze. We see there Superman, Starfire, and other heroes crucified and impaled on a battlefield littered with corpses and bones. At their feet lies the lifeless body of Peacemaker. These shocking, albeit furtive, images suggest a dystopian vision of the DCU's future.
The source of this vision is Circe, an Amazonian witch voiced by Anya Chalotra. In the series, she states: “I will show you the future. » We then wonder if this future is real or simply a manipulation intended to sow chaos?
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The start of a new era in the DC universe?
The appearance of Superman In Creature Commandos is a major event. Although his role here is limited to an apocalyptic vision, he symbolizes the link between this series and the rest of the DCU. The teaser of his death calls out: how can DC's flagship hero be killed before even his real debut in Superman: Legacy ? This could be a clue to the existence of a powerful antagonistcapable of threatening the entire universe.
Starfireanother emblematic character, is also represented in this scene. His inclusion could indicate a key role in future DC projects, including a possible Teen Titans adaptation.
Peacemakerplayed by John Cena, is another central character in this macabre vision. Remember that the series Peacemaker is directly linked to Creature Commandos. And its season 2 will explore the implications of this new timeline.
Circe plays a central role in Creature Commandos. Rightful heir to the throne of Themyscira, this witch violently opposes the heroes and accuses them of having “condemned the world”. His apocalyptic vision brings us to several hypotheses. Is she a prophetess revealing an inevitable future or a manipulator sowing discord? This isn't the first time that the DC Universe plays with concepts of alternate realitiesand this ambiguity adds an intriguing depth to the series.
Unsung heroes highlighted
Creature Commandos also highlights lesser-known, but equally captivating, characters. Indeed, Task Force M, led by Rick Flag Sr. (Frank Grillo), brings together unique monsters and anti-heroes:
- The Bride : a resurrected creature and leader of the team.
- G.I. Robot : a WWII robot programmed to kill Nazis.
- Doctor Phosphorus : a flaming skeleton.
- Nina Mazursky : a hyper-intelligent fish woman.
- Weasel : an elusive and uncontrollable creature.
The series also explores themes such as monstrosity, sacrifice and redemption. Each member of Task Force M faces their inner demons, making for a fascinating parallel to classic DCU heroes.
So no character is safe in the DC universe?
The deaths teased in Creature Commandos are perhaps just a diversion. James Gunn, known for his unpredictable stories, could use these visions as a lure to introduce a more complex narrative arc. The concept of a dystopian future, similar to Knightmare Timeline by Zack Snyder, could serve as a backdrop for epic confrontations.
However, if these deaths materialize, they could redefine the rules of the DC universe, where no character, even the most iconic, is safe.
