Originally, the Creature Commandos were a DC Comics team composed of superpowers beings that included versions of popular monsters. The creations of J.M. DeMatteis and Pat Broderick fought for the Americans during World War II. James Gunn, the man who helped bring us cinematic versions of oddball misfits the Guardians of the Galaxy and the Suicide Squad, gives the group his own signature treatment in the upcoming adult animated series with the same name.
Creature Commandos features the characters Nina Mazursky, G.I. Robot, Weasel, Erik Frankenstein, Doctor Phosphorus, and the Bride. The overarching narrative finds the team reluctantly assembled to carry out a mission to save the world. It’s pretty straightforward with a few twists along the way.
What is more captivating is the individual origins of each member highlighted per episode. Many are filled with tragedy and focus on the factors that created these “monsters.” The backstories, combined with the decisions of the present help humanize the main players and garner some sympathy. Throw in some ironic humor at times, and it’s difficult not to get attached to most of the characters. Although some of the writing for the female characters can rub you the wrong way. There are aspects of the Bride’s story that are cringey, and Nina Mazursky comes off more as one big plot device rather than a fully developed character.
The action is exciting and intense with smooth animation for the individual fight scenes. It is graphic with delightful creativity in the different ways the team kills people, Doctor Phosphorus in particular. The Bride has the best shootouts and brawls, and is clearly the star of the show. Be warned. It is not for the weak stomached and the violence leans all in with plenty of blood, headshots, and severed limbs.
Like James Gunn’s previous superhero projects, music plays a vital role in the storytelling. Instead of relying on classic hits, the soundtrack utilizes unfamiliar punk songs with an Eastern European influence. They are fitting for the setting and complement the scenes providing a chaotic yet playful vibe. They help make the extreme violence a little more palatable. However, the show could have benefitted with a little restraint with regards to timing. Sometimes the quick and abrupt use of the music can spoil the mood and take away from the more serious moments.
What also makes the Creature Commandos fun to watch is the care and respect the creators have for the source material and comics in general. Though it’s its own story, it feels part of a bigger universe with the side characters introduced. They all seem purposely chosen either for fun Easter eggs or something to potentially explore in the future. Speaking of Easter eggs, there are plenty scattered throughout the season. If you thought the leads are lesser known characters, keep an eye on the background for some great C-list cameos.
Creature Commandos in a great start to the “Gods and Monsters” chapter of the DC Universe. It has great action from characters you grow attached to over the course of the season while incorporating James Gunn signatures such as the humor and distinct soundtrack.
The first two episodes of Creature Commandos premiere Thursday, December 5, on Max.
You must be logged in to post a comment.