After following the titular character and his team finish Project Butterfly, Peacemaker will soon return for an all-new season. However, this time around the series is part of the recently launched DC Universe (DCU) as opposed to the previous DCEU.
James Gunn wastes no time establishing Peacemaker in the DCU incorporating ties to both Superman and Creature Commandos, which he also also wrote. You’ll see familiar faces and there is even a silly and fun retcon they establish in the beginning. If they do it in comics, why not here.
The second season shows more growth and maturity in its lead character. There is almost a toned down and subdued nature to John Cena’s performance. There are less diatribe tangents for comedic effect and a deeper exploration into his regrets in life and him overcoming his toxic masculinity. It plays for a really compelling story considering the situations they place him in. You can sense the character’s positive change and evolution since The Suicide Squad.
Peacemaker’s journey leads to some surprisingly moving scenes. Not only does Cena flex his underrated dramatic chops, but the supporting cast also contribute. Danielle Brooks is as likable as ever as Leota Adebayo. She’s the beating heart of the show playing the caring and motherly figure. Adebayo is the link between all the 11th Street Kids.
New addition David Denman is also a standout in the second season. His on-screen presence matches his large figure. The actor brings so much warmth and understanding to his role that you feel the impact in his every scene. He has great chemistry with Cena and the character helps bring out this different side to Peacemaker.
The show delivers what you would expect from a James Gunn written script both good and bad. The soundtrack is always rocking with tracks that complement the mood of each scene. Unfortunately, it seems Gunn hasn’t met a joke he didn’t like. Some of the banter and gags are forced and, on occasion, they detract from the main happenings in the moment, especially when they are more serious.
With all the focus on Peacemaker, one minor complaint is that the fun group dynamic is missing this season. There are few times when the team is all together, at least in the first five episodes provided. The crew aren’t all working together to confront a worldly threat. But that aspect had to be put in the backseat for the more character driven narrative without all the super heroism.
Despite the flaws a James Gunn project can have, season two places the focus on its lead with a compelling redemptive arc.
Peacemaker season two premieres Thursday, August 21 on HBO Max.
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