It’s a masterpiece compared to its 2016 predecessor but on its own, The Suicide Squad is a fun and imaginative comic book film that’s constructed with the wisdom of an adult and executed with the heart of a child.

A group of dangerous super villains are deployed by the U.S. government to the tyrannical nation of Corto Maltese to uncover deadly secrets.

The Style

Within the first five minutes, you know that The Suicide Squad is an auteur film. You know it has its own visual style at least. From its choice of music to its witty comedy, it’s one of the more bohemian contributions to the superhero genre. The film plays with time and perspective, allowing us to witness a single event from one point of view and then witness it again from another point of view, providing new details on the event.

While the comedy can be pretty juvenile at times, it shows that the film is aware of what it’s dealing with as it mocks the ridiculousness of its premise. I found this to be quite refreshing because even some of the recent Marvel films have taken themselves so seriously, they seem to have forgotten that they’re based on characters that were made to entertain children in the 1940s’.

If you’ve seen any of the Guardians of the Galaxy films, then these descriptions may sound familiar. The film is helmed by the same director after all. However, The Suicide Squad never feels like an imitation or some sort of unofficial Guardians of the Galaxy 3. The script has its own voice, its own story and even something to say.

The Substance

The characters are way better than those in the 2016 original, even the ones brought over from the 2016 original. For example, in just a handful of scenes, Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie) is much more tragic and empathetic than she was in her debut. She strives for connection yet deep down she knows that, in all likelihood, she’ll never find it.

Like its abominable predecessor, The Suicide Squad is an ensemble piece. Most of the characters get an equal amount of screen time and development. If Harley and Ratcatcher (Daniela Melchior) are supposed to attract our sympathy, then Bloodshot (Idris Elba) and Peacemaker (John Cena) are supposed to attract our intellect. What begins as a fun sibling-rivalry escalates to a full-blown confrontation. Bloodshot and Peacemaker possess opposing philosophies regarding patriotism and peace. I’m avoiding spoilers here but as the mission progresses, the squad discover truths that challenge Bloodshot and Peacemaker’s stances, forcing them to question their superiors, creating tension in the squad.

With its distinct style, well written cast of characters and standalone story, The Suicide Squad is one of the most original and fun superhero films I’ve seen in a while. You don’t have to watch any of the previous DC films to follow it, the film will embrace you regardless.

I give The Suicide Squad a strong 7 out of 10.