“Suicide Squad” saves the day
“Suicide Squad” is a slightly flawed, yet thoroughly enjoyable superhero movie where the villains take center stage and prove they are just as good as the heroes.
“Suicide Squad” is an adaptation of DC Comic’s graphic novel series of the same name where misfit and underused villains of the DC storylines become assets into dangerous, covert suicide missions on behalf of the United States government in exchange for reduced prison sentences.
The film centers on the first operation of the newly formed squad composing of expert sharpshooter and concerned father Deadshot (Will Smith), psychopathic villain and Joker’s sidekick Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie), Army Special Forces officer Rick Flag (Joel Kinnaman), Australian bank robber Captain Boomerang (Jai Courtney), horribly mutated brute Killer Croc (Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje), former gangster and pacifist pyrokinetic El Diablo (Jay Hernandez,) martial artist Katana (Karen Fukuhara), and mercenary Slipknot (Adam Beach).
There are additional appearances of psychopathic criminal mastermind the Joker (Jared Leto), Batman (Ben Affleck), and the Flash (Ezra Miller).
The film’s diverse cast is the best part of the film with highly talented actors who convey emotion with skill and subtlety.
The film shows a surprising amount of heart with the showcase of the villains’ tragic backstories such as Deadshot and his daughter’s relationship facing his criminal dealings and El Diablo’s motivation for his pacifism.
However, where the movie stumbles is in its comedy. The writing just does not seem to work with these characters, and an effect is that the quips and one-liners fall flat for the most part. That does not mean that the movie is not funny, but its the exception instead of the rule. Those expecting DC’s counter to Marvel’s similar venture into a group of misfit heroes “Guardians of the Galaxy” might be a little disappointed, as the films are similar in tone but appeal to different audiences.
Where “Suicide Squad” both succeeds and fails is in its mixed camera work and effects.
While special effects look picturesque and create the moment to moment action expected from a great super hero movie, the camera work and editing are choppy. It is easily inferred that many scenes were cut from theatrical release, very similar to the release of “Batman vs Superman.”
Continuing the trend of sequel bait, which for many fans is either a blessing or curse, “Suicide Squad” throws a few cameos in and teases the upcoming “Justice League” release in theaters. The tease is not quite subtle but does a great job of working up to the upcoming film and its numerous spin offs.
Casual movie goers who are expecting another “Guardians of the Galaxy” and non-fans of the DC expanded universe might not find much to enjoy, but fans and people willing to ignore some small issues are sure to enjoy this romp about villains turned wannabe heroes.
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