Creature Commandos is an animated television series created and written by James Gunn, which is part of the DC film and series universe. The series was announced in 2023 as part of the new DC Universe, also known as the DCU, a reinvention of the DC cinematic universe that Gunn is leading along with Peter Safran. Creature Commandos is undoubtedly a wonderful start for the new DC Universe that is being carefully crafted by James Gunn. The animated series not only marks the first step of this new phase but also symbolizes a clear and welcome break from the tumultuous past of the old DC Extended Universe (DCEU), which, under Zack Snyder’s direction, was marked by controversial choices and a lack of cohesion that never fully pleased the audience. Unlike Snyder’s films, which often seemed overly dark, disorganized, and directionless, Creature Commandos offers a fresh, fun, and full-of-personality proposal. With James Gunn’s signature, known for his unique balance between irreverent humor, genuine emotion, and epic action, the series brings to life what many expected from a DC film and series universe: interesting, dynamic, and deep characters, without losing the light and irreverent tone that can win over a broader audience.
Within Creature Commandos, there are several characters, including G.I. Robot, Rick Flag Sr., Weasel, Nina Mazursky, Doctor Phosphorus, Bride, and Eric Frankenstein. G.I. Robot stands out, without a doubt, as an action figure but also as a reflection of the internal struggle of all team members. His presence as a military android in a team of monsters and unusual beings brings an interesting dynamic, making the interactions between members deeper, challenging each one to deal with their own differences. This creates an interesting chemistry among the team members, where each one offers something unique to the collective fight. Additionally, his relentless pursuit of justice and his mission to defeat Nazis make him one of the pillars of the narrative, as he also represents classic themes of heroism and the fight against evil. He is not just a soldier – he is a figure that transcends the idea of a simple killing machine, becoming someone who questions his own identity and the purpose of his mission, which is reflected in more sensitive and emotional moments in the plot. G.I. Robot, as a character in Creature Commandos, is one of the richest and most captivating figures in the series. His journey is not just about being a war machine but about understanding what it means to be something more than his initial programming. Sean Gunn brings a unique energy to his interpretation, imbuing G.I. Robot with an unexpected humanity that, in a sense, makes him the best character in the series. The combination of action, philosophy, and the character’s internal struggle about who he is and what he should do makes him a key piece in the Creature Commandos team, elevating the narrative and creating a character that will resonate with fans for his complexity and development.
Weasel is undoubtedly one of the most eccentric and intriguing characters in the expanded DC universe, especially in the Creature Commandos series. Played by Sean Gunn, Weasel also gained prominence in the film The Suicide Squad (2021), where his participation was brief but still remarkable. The way James Gunn develops Weasel in this animation is truly exceptional, and it is a clear example of how an apparently secondary character can be completely transformed and deepened, becoming a much more significant and exciting figure. In The Suicide Squad (2021), Weasel is introduced as one of the members of the team of villains recruited by Amanda Waller. However, he quickly becomes a figure of comic relief, mainly due to his eccentric behavior and peculiar appearance – a humanoid being with animal traits, large eyes, and whitish skin, resembling a hybrid of man and weasel. His first appearance, where he is seen jumping into the water and being immediately neglected, caused some surprise, with the audience thinking he was being underestimated or treated irreverently. But what seemed to be a simple introductory joke turned into something more interesting and even emotional in Creature Commandos. What James Gunn does brilliantly in Creature Commandos is to offer the character an unexpected depth and a backstory that humanizes (or, better said, “animalizes”) Weasel in an impactful way. Although the character remains eccentric and, in a way, “clumsy,” he gains a story that adds a heavy emotional layer. James Gunn’s ability to balance humor and emotional depth makes Weasel one of the most complex and touching figures in the series, showing how even the most unlikely characters can become the most significant.
Rick Flag Sr. is a fundamental character not only for the Creature Commandos series but also for the future of the DCU as a whole, especially with his presence expected in key projects like Superman: Legacy (2025) and the second season of Peacemaker (also scheduled for 2025). Rick Flag Sr., the father of the famous Rick Flag Jr. (one of the main members of the Suicide Squad), is a figure that connects several crucial elements in the future of the DCU, starting with the Creature Commandos series. As the leader of the team of creatures and monsters, Flag Sr. brings the experience and discipline of a soldier with a clear mission, something that makes him an essential figure for the new DCU plots. His participation in the new Superman by James Gunn, especially in the context of a universe that seeks to create a more cohesive and interconnected foundation, is an indication that the figure of Flag Sr. will be central to the development of future plots. As someone with a military background and a strong ethic, Flag Sr. can be the balance point between authority and heroes with more complex origins, like Superman, who will likely have to deal with dilemmas of power, responsibility, and the need for leadership.
Additionally, the presence of Rick Flag Sr. in the second season of Peacemaker will further expand his role within this new DCU. In Creature Commandos, Rick Flag Sr. is a character who offers much more than just the archetype of the tough and disciplined soldier. He is portrayed as someone with a clear sense of mission, but also with a humanity that shines through in his interactions with other team members. His role as the leader of the Creature Commandos places a layer of responsibility on his shoulders, as he is not only a military commander but also someone who must deal with creatures and beings that have their own complexities and existential issues.
Rick Flag Sr. is undoubtedly one of the most interesting and significant characters in the future of the DCU. His presence in Creature Commandos provides a solid foundation to explore themes of leadership, authority, and moral ambiguity, while his participation in Superman and Peacemaker will be crucial for establishing the interconnection between different characters and narratives. The choice of Frank Grillo as the voice actor for Rick Flag Sr. in Creature Commandos is one of the best possible options, as his ability to balance strength and vulnerability will make the character even more fascinating. Rick Flag Sr.’s journey throughout these productions promises to be central to the future of the DCU, and his presence as a leader will be a key element in an era of greater cohesion and evolution for the DC universe.
The character of The Bride, inspired by the famous character from literature and cinema (the bride of Frankenstein’s monster), is equally nuanced. In Creature Commandos, The Bride is a character who, although sharing some elements of tradition, is completely subverted by James Gunn’s writing. She is not a simple tragic figure or a passive victim, as we often see in traditional adaptations. On the contrary, she is a woman with her own agency, strength, and emotional complexity. What James Gunn does brilliantly is to make The Bride a character who not only reacts to the presence of Eric Frankenstein but also sets her own rules. Her relationship with him is marked by a chemistry that mixes comedy and genuinely touching moments. The emotional journey of Eric Frankenstein and The Bride, as their life and love experiences are challenged and tested, makes the audience not only laugh with them but also empathize with their emotional differences.
Doctor Phosphorus is one of the most fascinating and visually unique characters in Creature Commandos. He is described as a team member who is permanently radioactive, and his presence in the series brings an intriguing mix of mystery, science, and tragedy. His appearance and his condition of being a radioactive entity make him one of the most interesting characters in the group, and the way his lack of facial expressions was chosen to define his personality reveals a lot about the creative approach of the series.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Doctor Phosphorus in Creature Commandos is his appearance and the way the animators dealt with his lack of facial expressions. Initially, there was an idea to morph his skeleton to show reactions or emotions, as would be expected of a human character with special abilities. However, the creators realized that this lack of facial expressions actually complements and enriches the character’s nature. The absence of facial expressions in Doctor Phosphorus is not just a limitation but an essential characteristic of his identity. As someone permanently radioactive, with a body that seems to be a fusion of flesh and dried bones, he distances himself from a traditional “human” representation. Not only that, but the lack of facial reactions also reflects his emotional disconnection. He is an imposing and cold figure, a being who has become a force of nature in himself, but who is totally alienated from the rest of the world, unable to express his feelings in a conventional way.
Nina, the character who resembles a fish in Creature Commandos, is undoubtedly one of the most empathetic and heartfelt figures in the series. She represents a fundamental contrast within the team, bringing not only a distinct physical presence but also an emotional approach that stands out for the sensitivity and care she shows for others. Although her appearance may be more alien, her behavior and interactions with other team members humanize her significantly and also with a very emotional story, making her an essential character in the group’s dynamics.
Another highlight in Creature Commandos is the animation, which is nothing short of stunning. The series features vibrant, fluid, and impressive animation that perfectly matches the irreverent and unique tone of the narrative. The visual style of the animation not only complements James Gunn’s writing style but is also a milestone in how the audience will perceive the new DC universe. The animation is not just an aesthetic choice but a means to explore the emotions and peculiarities of the characters in a way that would be difficult to achieve with live-action actors.
The animation in Creature Commandos is full of detail and intensity, bringing each character to life in a unique way. For example, the way the characters’ movements and expressions are worked on — such as the lack of facial expressions of Doctor Phosphorus or the dramatic gestures of Eric Frankenstein — makes each character have a distinct visual identity that perfectly aligns with their personalities. The series’ aesthetics ensure that each scene has a profound visual and emotional impact, as well as ensuring that transitions between intense action moments and more intimate or emotional scenes are smooth and natural. The art direction and visual design are also exceptional, bringing a rich palette of colors and atmospheres that range from the grotesque to the charming, reflecting the diversity of the characters and their inner worlds.
The animation captures the essence of each character — from the most mysterious creatures to the most complex heroes — with great care and precision, giving the audience an impressive sensory experience that goes beyond the simple narrative. Additionally, the fluidity of the animation allows for fast-paced and exciting action scenes, where the characters’ powers, such as those of Doctor Phosphorus or the brute strength of Eric Frankenstein, are displayed vibrantly and impactfully. Each battle or confrontation is not only visually impressive but also full of emotion, with the animation serving as an extension of the story’s energy and rhythm.
Creature Commandos is undoubtedly the perfect start for the new DC universe being led by James Gunn. The series not only marks the beginning of a new era for DC but also establishes a bold, irreverent, and emotionally complex tone that is James Gunn’s signature. He manages to blend humor, action, and moments of reflection with a unique lightness, while also honoring the deeper and more human elements of the characters. Gunn’s approach to creating a unique and diverse story, while respecting the legacy of DC comics, defines Creature Commandos as the ideal foundation for the future of the DCU.
Creature Commandos releases on Max on December 5th with a 2-Episode premiere.
