Creature Commandos is a Stellar Start to the New DC Universe

The debut of Creature Commandos has brought a refreshing and intriguing twist to the iconic relaunch of the new DC Universe led by James Gunn and Peter Safran. And in just two episodes, this enigmatic series has already set the stage for a complex and richly layered narrative, introducing a diverse array of characters, weaving in numerous easter eggs, and providing significant insights into the broader state of the DC Universe. Here’s why we’re already inclined to love this liberating era of the new DC.

Photograph by Courtesy of Max

Setting the Scene: A Dark and Mature Tone

The new DC Universe series immediately establishes a potent blend of zany comic book humor with plenty of mature themes and nuanced stylistic choices. This is evident from the first two action-packed episodes, which introduce a world fraught with complexity, moral ambiguity, and a relentless penchant for adult-focused storytelling (in more ways than one).

Within the first two episodes, the series also expertly combines elements of horror, action, and drama, creating a unique blend that sets it apart from previous DC adaptations. The mature tone is akin to that of other successful series like Doom Patrol and Titans, but with its own distinct flavor.

Introducing Task Force M and the Creature Commandos

At the heart of the series is Task Force M, a team led by Rick Flag Sr.. This team is composed of non-human operatives, each with their own unique abilities and backstories set to be explored in the series’ character-focused episodes. The inclusion of such diverse characters reflects the series' commitment to exploring unconventional heroes and anti-heroes and setting the stage for DC’s new era.

• Rick Flag Sr.: Voiced by Frank Grillo, Rick Flag Sr. is depicted as a seasoned leader tasked with managing the Creature Commandos. His character is layered with personal struggles, including dealing with his past and his relationship with his son, Rick Flag Jr. And of course, a newfound relationship that’s destined for trouble.

• The Bride: Indira Varma voices The Bride, a character with a tragic and complex backstory. As of now, we’ve learned her origin, her lack of interest in Frankenstein, and her deep-rooted hatred for him, which is sure to become a bizarre dynamic as this story progresses.

• Doctor Phosphorus: A formidable character, Doctor Phosphorus, portrayed as a rival to Rick Flag, brings intensity to the team dynamics. Additionally, his contentious relationship with Flag helps create one of the series’ most impeccable comedic relationships.

• Nina Mazursky: Another significant member of the team, Nina Mazursky’s character is fleshed out through her seemingly level-headed interactions with The Bride and other team members. While we haven’t seen much of her unique abilities and backstory just yet, we’re eager to see how she ended up in this rather unique position.

• G.I. Robot: G.I. Robot, also known as J.A.K.E. 2, is a robotic soldier with a hilarious obsession with hunting Nazis. His personality is a mix of stoic determination and unexpected humor — and his single-minded focus on eliminating Nazi threats often leads to comically intense situations, providing a unique blend of action and levity. The character’s interactions with other team members repeatedly highlight his quirky nature and unwavering dedication to this specific mission.

• Weasel: Weasel, the anthropomorphic creature with a quirky and bizarre personality, adds a distinct flavor to the team. Voiced by Sean Gunn, Weasel's interactions and antics provide comic relief amid the intense action and drama. His backstory and abilities make him an unpredictable yet valuable member of Task Force M. He’s kind of the MVP already.

Photograph by Courtesy of Max

Promising Plot Developments and Mission Objectives

The first two episodes dive straight into action, setting up the primary mission for the Creature Commandos. The team is deployed to Pokolistan to protect Princess Ilana Rostovic from the sorceress Circe (yes, the classic Wonder Woman villain is already part of the canon). This mission introduces viewers to the high-stakes world the Creature Commandos inhabit, filled with supernatural threats and complex political dynamics in an already-running DC Universe.

While things are moving at a rapid pace, the action sequences are also meticulously crafted and integrated, showcasing the unique abilities of each team member pretty quickly. A standout moment is the brutal fight between Doctor Phosphorus and Rick Flag, highlighting the intense and gritty nature of the series. Though, that massive brawl between The Bride and Circe is equally iconic.

Easter Eggs and Subtle References

The series is rich with easter eggs and references that will delight fans of the broader DC Universe. These nods to the comics and previous adaptations serve to create a cohesive and interconnected world. For example, familiar locations such as Belle Reve Penitentiary, where many of DC’s most notorious villains are held, make appearances. The Galaxy Broadcasting System (GBS) is also referenced, paying tribute to the previous iterations of the DC Universe in comics, animation, and live-action.

In terms of connectivity, Creature Commandos also makes direct references to events of The Suicide Squad (via Weasel’s involvement) and also makes references to Waller’s storyline as depicted in Peacemaker. Because, when you’re getting a bold new universe, it’s important to make a few things clear while also generating a compelling new arena. And fortunately, Creature Commandos is able to accomplish both tasks.

Check out Creature Commandos on MAX.