The inaugural season of the animated series, "Monster Commandos," has concluded, marking the launch of a new DC Cinematic Universe under the creative direction of James Gunn. This season, spanning seven episodes, has laid the groundwork for an expansive universe filled with cliffhangers and exciting introductions. Let's delve into the key highlights and cliffhangers left by Gunn and his team.
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James Gunn confirmed before the show's release that "The Peacemaker" series starring John Cena is part of the canon, except for the cameo in Zack Snyder's Justice League. John Economos, an ARGUS agent and Amanda Waller's sidekick, references events from the show in the animated series. Peacemaker himself also makes an appearance, reinforcing the connection to the broader universe. Similarly, "The Suicide Squad" is established as canon in the first episode.
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The series introduces various iconic DC locations. Cerci, the witch, hails from Themyscira, the home of Wonder Woman. Dr. Phosphorus, a Gotham criminal, was captured by Batman. Metropolis is home to Galaxy Broadcasting System (GBS), where Clark Kent and Lois Lane work. Dr. Phosphorus's wife comes from Bialia, the land of Queen Bee and the origin of the Scarab that powers Blue Beetle. A soldier mentions serving with Rick Flag Senior in Jharkhanpur, home to the villain Ram Khan. Bloodhaven, the town of Nightwing, and Star City, the hometown of Green Arrow, are also referenced, along with the origins of Mermaid (Nina Mazursky) from Star City.
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In episode three, we discover that G.I. Robot fought alongside Sgt. Rock and Easy Company during World War II. Sgt. Rock, DC's most famous non-superhero, first appeared in the 1959 comic "Our Army at War" and has since made numerous cameos across the DC multiverse. Rumors suggest Daniel Craig might portray him in an upcoming movie, with Maury Sterling voicing the character in the show.
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Dr. Will Magnus, the creator of the Metal Men robotics team, studies G.I. Robot in the same episode. The Metal Men are androids named after elements from the periodic table, adding depth to the technological aspect of the DC universe.
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The series features various villains in Argus prison cells, including Class Z villains from DC comics. Notable characters include Animal-Plant-Mineral Man and Bloody Millipede, along with Shaggy-Man, Fisherman, Congorilla, Nosferata, Khalis, Kemo, and Egg-Fu. James Gunn mentioned that the animators and co-showrunner Dean Laurie had creative freedom in choosing who appears in these scenes.
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Elizabeth Bates serves as Weasels' lawyer, a reimagining of the 1940s comic strip heroine Betty Bates from "Lady-at-Law." She not only defends justice in court but also engages in physical confrontations, reminiscent of Daredevil but with keen eyesight and a striking brunette appearance.
Episode four showcases a significant number of cameos in a scene where Cerci shows Amanda Waller visions of an apocalyptic future. James Gunn revealed the presence of Wonder Woman, Hawkgirl, Supergirl, Booster Gold, Robin (Damien Wayne), Peacekeeper, Batman, Vigilante, Judo Master, Metamorpho, Superman, Starfire, Green Lantern (Guy Gardner), Mr. Terrific, and Gorilla Grodd. Gunn also hinted at more appearances of Blue Beetle, suggesting future involvement of actor Sholo Maridueña in the new Cinematic Universe.
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In episode five, we learn that Dr. Ailsa McPherson has been replaced by Clayface, a notorious Batman villain. Alan Tudyk voices Clayface, having also lent his voice to Dr. Phosphorus and Will Magnus in the show, and Clayface in another DC animated series, "Harley Quinn." Tudyk enjoys voicing the character's different personalities across these shows. James Gunn announced a "Clayface" movie with a screenplay by Mike Flanagan, sparking curiosity about Tudyk's potential involvement.
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The sixth episode delves into the origins of Dr. Phosphorus, involving Gotham crime boss Rupert Thorne. Batman captures the dangerous villain, providing the first glimpse of the iconic hero in this new universe.
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The season finale introduces a new lineup of Creature Commandos led by Bride, including King Shark (voiced by Diedrich Bader), Dr. Phosphorus, Weasel, the restored G.I. Robot, Nosferata, and Khalis. As fans eagerly await Season 2, excitement also builds for the upcoming Superman movie.