The Gunn never misses

Peacemaker comic panel from 13th Dimension by Dan Kupperberg

James Gunn delivers yet another instant hit with Peacemaker season 2 

By Archie McFadzean

Peacemaker season two crashes onto the screen with the same insane, unhinged energy that has captured the minds of its fans from season one. Unsurprisingly, it has a loud, unforgettable and gleefully inappropriate nature. 

Yet beneath the massive fight scenes and carnage, producer James Gunn has cleverly conveyed serious issues through the character Peacemaker, who is brought to life by the extremely talented John Cena. He expertly highlights the metaphor that is Peacemaker as he justifies his murders through the morally dubious belief that peace can be attained through murder. The brutal and hypocritical nature of this season raises several different questions. 

What does this mean for the DC universe? What is still in store from James Gunn’s evolving vision of his movies and series? 

The acting from season two has managed to surpass the fantastic performances from season one. The original main cast such as John Cena, has brought a deeper sense of vulnerability to Peacemaker yet still manages to blend his preexisting bravado. Danielle Brooks, whose character Leota Adebayo in the first season challenges Christopher Smith’s (Peacemaker’s) ignorance and ego, is now a friend Smith can depend on and helps him come to terms with the grief of his father’s death.  

Freddie Stroma, who plays Adrian Chase (Vigilante), is the counterbalance to the season’s deeper themes, keeping fans on the edge of their seats with his chaotic and hilarious actions and interjections. Peacemaker’s father played by Robert Patrick as Auggie Smith (White Dragon) is arguably one of Gunn’s most controversial characters as he is a neo-Nazi. At the end of season one he is killed by Vigilante leading to Peacemaker's breakdown. Jennifer Holland who portrays Emilia Harcourt is Peacemaker's case officer at the start of season one. However, this professional partnership at the end of season two transitions from a volatile friendship to a functional and romantic relationship. 

Season two has expanded on several themes that were briefly explored in season one such as drug abuse and toxic relationships. Gunn does this through dramatic and impactful montages of Peacemaker abusing substances to self-medicate his grief.  

Another one of most prevalent themes through the course of show is the several toxic relationships between the main actors, most of which revolve around Peacemaker. For example, his relationship with his dad through the course of show and his eventual loss deeply affects Peacemaker as his dad appears to him several times as a ghost. This further degrades Peacemaker's self-worth and provokes the guilt he feels for not having a good relationship with his father. Another key relationship that is vital to the peace of the season is the romantic relationship between Peacemaker and Emilia Harcourt. At the start of season one Harcourt resents Peacemaker as she views him as ignorant and violent, but as season two progress their bond grows as she comes to see Peacemaker as someone who is a product of his environment due to the abuse he suffered when he was younger. 

James Gunn has yet again created a masterpiece through his use of deep themes, brilliant writing and acting. Not only has Peacemaker attracted a greatly enthusiastic fanbase it has also brought serious issues to light through humour and chaos. 

Star rating - 7/10 

Written for CityLive