Max - Creature Commandos: A New Dawn for the DC Universe

By Mulder, 02 december 2024

As the inaugural television series in the reimagined DC Universe (DCU), Creature Commandos is set to storm the streaming service Max on December 5, 2024, with the release of its first two episodes. The highly anticipated animated series, conceived by James Gunn and co-produced by DC Studios and Warner Bros. Animation, promises a unique blend of dark humor, gory action, and compelling storytelling.

Creature Commandos introduces a black-ops team assembled by Amanda Waller in the aftermath of the events of Peacemaker (2022). No longer willing to jeopardize human lives for her clandestine operations, Waller recruits a team of monsters led by General Rick Flag Sr., voiced by Frank Grillo. This morally complex leader heads an ensemble that includes amphibious scientist Nina Mazursky (Zoë Chao), the intellectual yet tortured Eric Frankenstein (David Harbour), the radioactive Doctor Phosphorus (Alan Tudyk), and the ever-chaotic Weasel (Sean Gunn), among others. Gunn's script delves into each character's psyche, ensuring depth and variety in their personalities. The series adopts an episodic focus on individual team members, drawing comparisons to shows like Lost while blending it with the macabre tones of The Dirty Dozen.

As the first entry in DCU’s Chapter One: Gods and Monsters, Creature Commandos sets the tone for the franchise’s future. The show serves as a narrative bridge, with some characters slated to appear in upcoming projects, including the much-awaited Superman: Legacy. Gunn’s vision for a cohesive universe where characters transition seamlessly between animation and live-action shines through. The series also reintroduces iconic locations like Belle Reve prison, redesigned for this animated venture while maintaining visual consistency with its portrayal in The Suicide Squad.

The voice cast is headlined by Viola Davis, reprising her role as Amanda Waller. Other prominent actors include Maria Bakalova as Princess Ilana Rostovic, Anya Chalotra as Circe, and Alan Tudyk voicing both Doctor Phosphorus and the shapeshifting Clayface. Sean Gunn doubles as G.I. Robot and Weasel, while Indira Varma brings depth to the Bride’s character. This meticulously curated cast exemplifies Gunn’s commitment to hiring actors capable of portraying their characters across mediums. Voice recordings, directed by Gunn himself, wrapped up by August 2023, ensuring that the performances align with the series’ bold and dynamic tone.

The animation, handled by the French studio Bobbypills, delivers a visually striking aesthetic described as grounded yet stylized, with an Eastern European influence. The character designs echo inspirations from Universal Classic Monsters and manga series like Golgo 13, creating a rich tapestry of visual and thematic elements. The series also boasts an evocative musical score composed by Kevin Kiner and Clint Mansell, complemented by the opening theme Moliendo Café by Hugo Blanco. Gunn’s curated musical mood board, inspired by acts like Gogol Bordello, adds another layer of personality to the show.

Critical Acclaim and Promising TeasersInitial teasers released during San Diego Comic-Con and New York Comic Con in 2024 showcased the series' darkly comedic tone, vivid animation, and intense action. Critics have likened its style to Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad, though with a more unsentimental edge. The trailers highlight the series’ unapologetic embrace of violence and its intricate character dynamics. Observers have noted the blend of gore, humor, and poignant moments, which hint at a series poised to redefine superhero storytelling.

Creature Commandos not only reimagines the titular team but also establishes the groundwork for the DCU’s overarching narrative. With discussions of a second season already underway, the series is shaping up to be a cornerstone of Gunn and Peter Safran’s ambitious vision for DC’s future. For fans of unconventional heroes and morally ambiguous storytelling, Creature Commandos promises to be a thrilling ride. Mark your calendars for December 5, 2024, and prepare to delve into a world where monsters become heroes and nothing is as it seems.

Synopsis:
The adventures of combatants including a human leader, a werewolf, a vampire, Frankenstein's monster and a gorgon.

Creature Commandos
Created by James Gunn
Based on Characters from DC
Showrunner : Dean Lorey
Written by James Gunn
Starring Steve Agee, Maria Bakalova, Anya Chalotra, Zoë Chao, Frank Grillo, Sean Gunn, David Harbour, Alan Tudyk, Indira Varma, Viola Davis
Music by Kevin Kiner, Clint Mansell
Opening theme Moliendo Café by Hugo Blanco
Executive producers : James Gunn, Peter Safran, Sam Register, Dean Lorey
Production companies : DC Studios, Warner Bros. Animation