Second Run: The Suicide Squad

Good day CrewMembers and welcome to “Second Run: The Suicide Squad".

When coming up with more "Opening Night/Second Run" features to write, we realized we haven't been giving DC much love. It's partially due to the fact that the DCEU (DC Extended Universe) is much less connected than the MCU so there’s generally less to explain. Even so, knowing that ahead of time could certainly help out newcomers. So let's jump in!

THE SUICIDE SQUAD was described by writer/director James Gunn as a total reboot multiple times leading up to the film's release. However, that's not entirely true and at one point he began answering the descriptor question with, “I don’t know, ask Warner Brothers”. The film does reference other movies and relies on viewers having a basic understanding of certain characters. Now, is it a sequel in terms of NEEDING to see the other films to understand this one? No. But, it definitely helps and adds to the experience.

THE SUICIDE SQUAD FRANCHISE

First, there is SUICIDE SQUAD (2016). While there are plenty of threads and plot lines left unresolved by THE SUICIDE SQUAD (2021), you do get a feel for some of the characters that return for the “Re-quel.” (Term stolen from 5CREAM for a franchise movie that is neither a true sequel nor full reboot.)

Secondly, there is BIRDS OF PREY (AND THE FANTABULOUS EMANCIPATION OF ONE HARLEY QUINN) aka HARLEY QUINN: BIRDS OF PREY aaka BIRDS OF PREY. Now, if you’re having a hard time placing the existence of this movie, I think we can forgive you. It was released on February 7th, 2020 just a little over a month before the world shut down for COVID. Whereas THE SUICIDE SQUAD ('21) was released with a nebulous connection to SUICIDE SQUAD ('16), BIRDS OF PREY was officially released as a Sequel Spin-off to SUICIDE SQUAD ('16). However, this is a Harley Quinn-driven movie so again don’t really expect much resolution to any lingering questions from SUICIDE SQUAD ('16).

THE REST OF THE DCEU

One thing to keep in mind is that up thru JUSTICE LEAGUE, DC and Warner Bros were planning on having a very connected cinematic universe to keep in step with rival MARVEL Studios. Hence, the links were much stronger in the early movies.

At the beginning of SUICIDE SQUAD ('16), there is an explanation as to why they are setting up a task force of villains to help fight other villains. If you haven’t seen other movies in the DCEU, this explanation can be a bit of a jarring revelation. To aid in understanding the need for Task Force X, we suggest watching MAN OF STEEL and BATMAN v SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE. There are 2 versions of BATMAN v SUPERMAN, either will get you what you need but the ULTIMATE CUT is generally considered better (it's certainly longer).

Now let’s put your checklist together!

Suicide Squad (2021) Pre-Viewing Checklist

MAN OF STEEL (2013)

BATMAN v SUPERMAN (ULTIMATE CUT) (2016)

THE SUICIDE SQUAD (2016)

BIRDS OF PREY (2020)

SUICIDE SQUAD (2021)

The next piece in the SUICIDE SQUAD franchise is the HBO Max series "Peacemaker." As far as we know, you're good to go with that after catching up on this check list. We'll explore that claim further in an upcoming "Second Run" feature as well.

~Until then, enjoy the show!