The Suicide Squad franchise, a whirlwind of morally ambiguous anti-heroes and chaotic missions, can be a bit perplexing to navigate chronologically. While release order is perfectly acceptable, understanding the narrative timeline provides a richer, more cohesive viewing experience. Therefore, the ideal order is Suicide Squad (2016) followed by The Suicide Squad (2021) and then the spin-off series Peacemaker.
Navigating the Labyrinth of Villainous Teams
The Suicide Squad, affectionately (or perhaps fearfully) known as Task Force X, presents a unique storytelling challenge. Each entry in the franchise acts as a quasi-reboot, introducing new characters and shifting the overall tone. This isn’t your typical superhero saga with a linear narrative. While direct sequels are traditionally the order of the day, the Suicide Squad operates on a different plane. Let’s dissect the optimal viewing order.
The Release Order vs. The Narrative Order
Initially, following the release order of Suicide Squad (2016), The Suicide Squad (2021), and Peacemaker seems logical. However, consider the purpose of watching in chronological order: to trace character development, understand recurring themes, and appreciate the evolving world-building. The Suicide Squad (2021), while marketed as a sequel, functions more as a soft reboot with only a handful of characters returning from the original. Thus, watching Suicide Squad (2016) first establishes the foundational concept of Task Force X and characters like Harley Quinn, Amanda Waller, and Rick Flag. The Suicide Squad (2021) then builds upon this foundation with a fresh mission and predominantly new recruits. Finally, Peacemaker, a direct spin-off from The Suicide Squad (2021), explores the complex moral compass of Christopher Smith/Peacemaker after the events of Corto Maltese.
The Recommended Order: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s the recommended order, along with a brief justification for each step:
- Suicide Squad (2016): This film introduces the core concept of Task Force X, a team of incarcerated supervillains forced to carry out dangerous missions for the U.S. government. It establishes the dynamic between Amanda Waller, Rick Flag, and the original roster of Squad members, including Harley Quinn, Deadshot, El Diablo, and Killer Croc. It is crucial for understanding the framework within which the subsequent films operate.
- The Suicide Squad (2021): While featuring some returning characters, this film is essentially a fresh start with a new team and a different tone. Directed by James Gunn, it’s significantly more self-aware, violent, and comedic than its predecessor. Watching Suicide Squad (2016) beforehand provides context for the returning characters, but the film itself is designed to be accessible even to newcomers.
- Peacemaker (2022-Present): This HBO Max series picks up after the events of The Suicide Squad (2021), focusing on Peacemaker’s journey and his ongoing work with A.R.G.U.S. It delves deeper into Peacemaker’s backstory, his motivations, and the consequences of his actions in Corto Maltese. Knowing the events of The Suicide Squad (2021) is essential for understanding Peacemaker’s character arc in the series.
Following this order provides the most contextually rich and rewarding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about watching the Suicide Squad movies in the correct order:
FAQ 1: Does The Suicide Squad (2021) ignore the events of Suicide Squad (2016)?
While The Suicide Squad (2021) doesn’t explicitly contradict Suicide Squad (2016), it largely recasts the tone and style, acting as a soft reboot. References to the first film are minimal, focusing mainly on the returning characters like Harley Quinn and Rick Flag. Don’t expect a direct continuation of the first film’s storyline.
FAQ 2: Is Peacemaker a direct sequel to The Suicide Squad (2021)?
Yes, Peacemaker is a direct sequel to The Suicide Squad (2021). The series picks up immediately after the events of the film, focusing on Peacemaker’s recovery and subsequent missions. Watching The Suicide Squad (2021) is crucial for understanding Peacemaker’s character arc in the series.
FAQ 3: Do I need to watch Suicide Squad (2016) before The Suicide Squad (2021)?
While not strictly necessary, watching Suicide Squad (2016) before The Suicide Squad (2021) provides context for the overall concept of Task Force X and the characters of Harley Quinn, Amanda Waller, and Rick Flag. However, The Suicide Squad (2021) is designed to be accessible to newcomers as well.
FAQ 4: Is there a specific timeline that connects all the Suicide Squad movies and series?
The timeline is generally linear, following the recommended viewing order: Suicide Squad (2016), The Suicide Squad (2021), and then Peacemaker. While small details might differ, the overall narrative flow is maintained.
FAQ 5: Where can I watch the Suicide Squad movies and Peacemaker?
Suicide Squad (2016) and The Suicide Squad (2021) are generally available for rental or purchase on digital platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies, and Apple TV. Peacemaker is available exclusively on HBO Max (now Max).
FAQ 6: Are there any post-credit scenes I should be aware of?
Yes, both Suicide Squad (2016) and The Suicide Squad (2021) have post-credit scenes. Suicide Squad (2016) sets up future Justice League encounters. The Suicide Squad (2021) is particularly important as it directly sets up the Peacemaker series. Every episode of Peacemaker also features a short, often humorous, post-credit scene.
FAQ 7: Will there be a Suicide Squad 3?
The future of the Suicide Squad franchise is currently uncertain. While there are no confirmed plans for a Suicide Squad 3, the success of The Suicide Squad (2021) and Peacemaker suggests that Warner Bros. Discovery is open to further exploring this corner of the DC Universe.
FAQ 8: Which Suicide Squad movie is considered better?
Generally, critics and audiences favor The Suicide Squad (2021) over Suicide Squad (2016). James Gunn’s direction, the film’s self-aware humor, and the diverse cast have been widely praised. However, personal preference will vary.
FAQ 9: Are the Suicide Squad movies connected to the wider DC Extended Universe (DCEU)?
Suicide Squad (2016) was intended to be part of the original DCEU, with connections to films like Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. However, with the restructuring of the DC Universe under James Gunn and Peter Safran, the future of these connections is unclear. The Suicide Squad (2021) and Peacemaker exist in a somewhat separate space, with fewer direct ties to the broader DCEU.
FAQ 10: Is Peacemaker appropriate for children?
No, Peacemaker is definitely not appropriate for children. The series contains graphic violence, strong language, and mature themes. It is rated TV-MA and is intended for adult audiences.
FAQ 11: Can I skip Suicide Squad (2016) entirely?
Yes, you can technically skip Suicide Squad (2016) without being completely lost in The Suicide Squad (2021) or Peacemaker. However, skipping it means missing the initial introduction of Harley Quinn, Amanda Waller, and the core concept of Task Force X.
FAQ 12: What’s the best aspect ratio to watch the Suicide Squad movies in?
This depends on your viewing device. If you have a widescreen TV, watching in the original aspect ratio (typically 2.39:1) is recommended to preserve the director’s intended vision. This may result in black bars at the top and bottom of the screen. Avoid stretching the image to fill the screen, as this can distort the picture.