After seeing Marvel comics find great success with their
superhero films, rivals DC Comics have tried catching up.
Attempting to begin their own ‘cinematic universe’ with the Henry
Cavill-starring ‘Superman’ movies, ‘Suicide Squad’ is the latest in their
master-plan. After the mixed reviews for ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of
Justice’, a lot was riding on ‘Suicide Squad’. Unfortunately it shows DC still
has a lot to learn in terms of presenting a satisfying production in spite of
the mega-bucks thrown at it.
Deadshot (Will Smith) and Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie) are
two of the most dangerous super-villains around. They are also imprisoned
with other like-minded baddies by a secret government agency. Regularly
called upon to participate in black ops missions in exchange for clemency,
their newest assignment seems the most deadly yet. Fighting against the
magical mayhem of The Enchantress (Cara Delevinge) the self-styled ‘Suicide
Squad’ face a foe whose nefarious ways are more wicked than anything they could
dream.
‘Suicide Squad’ is a very uneven film gradually falling
under the weight of its excess. Whilst its first half is reasonably
interesting with some engaging characters, its second is pure formula.
There’s a definite sense of having seen it all before with predictable fight
sequences and plotting making for somewhat dull viewing. The biggest
problem is the over-abundance of characters, as there are too many to do them
full justice. Each only receives sketchy introductions before thrown into
the action. This results in not really caring what happens to them, in
spite of the solid performances.
Although Jared Leto’s role as The Joker has received much
coverage, he only really has a cameo role. It feels as if he’s there to serve as
a teaser to another movie in which he’ll no doubt appear. ‘Suicide Squad’
generally feels like an extended ad for a better film, only occasionally embracing
the colourful fun it promises. David Ayer’s direction is fine without
being remarkable. He shows little flair in action scenes with some characters
getting badly short changed.
‘Suicide Squad’ is much better than ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn
of Justice’ in terms of being more fun. In other areas it falls far short
of its potential. Hopefully the next DC film will overcome the stuttering
start they’ve had with their cinematic output thus far and show how high their
heroes can fly.
Movie Review Rating out of 10: 5
Movie Review by Patrick Moore
Agree with Patrick's Movie Review? Then please use the
comment box.
Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at movie
releases in Australia.
TRAILER
SOUNDTRACK