Review of Suicide Squad (2016) by J.j. K — 02 Jun 2017

SPOILERS:

There is an even better movie in here, but what we got works too. For how rushed some of the film felt, Ayer did a great job of introducing our team, and making me care about them. From there, the actors took control and for the most part delivered solid performances that furthered my interest in them. The comedy hits, the heart shows through rough exteriors (particularly with Deadshot, Diablo, and even Harley in her own twisted way), and much of the action is well shot.

Unfortunately, this stand-out team is placed in a fairly standard plot, complete with faceless henchman who are mostly there to show off the Squad's abilities. Our main villain has promise, and our first introduction is tremendous, but ultimately it becomes another CGI-filled "ring of trash," as Deadshot calls it. Enchantress is no longer her scary, swampy self from earlier, and is instead Cara Delevingne wearing a big hat and gyrating with some lightning, complete with loud, deep voice. When she shows the Squad what they really want, and what she can give them, there is a glimpse of a strong villain, but that all quickly goes away. They should have utilized that mind control more, separating her from just another monster that wants to take over the world.

Jared Leto's Joker shines when he appears, but it is clear they cut out a good chunk of his scenes. While it wasn't a Joker movie, and he was still used effectively, it wouldn't have hurt to see more of him, especially seeing how well Ayer nailed Joker and Harley's relationship.

Overall, I am satisfied. It isn't quite what I expected, maybe not what I wanted, but it worked okay for what it was.