Three years ago, Peacemaker season one burst onto the scene with blinding momentum. The superhero show took the relatively niche Suicide Squad member Peacemaker and turned him into an icon. What made the vigilante iconic was his unique approach to justice, humour and John Cena’s iconic performance. Three years later, season two arrived and exceeded all expectations.
Prior to season 2, renowned director James Gunn, who directed five episodes of season one, took helm of the project and enveloped it within his new cinematic universe. In recent years, Gunn has become the co-CEO of DC studios. With every new project, he has proved that he is worthy of the role. From “Suicide Squad” to this year’s “Superman,” Gunn has been firing on all cylinders, delivering products of the utmost quality. Peacemaker season two might be his best work yet.
Peacemaker season 2 is a careful character study which breaks down the iconic anti hero and forces him to confront his internal issues. The first season was a whirlwind of violence and humor, but the second season adds to that with deep character work. The season delves into Peacemaker’s issues with his dad his struggle with self worth and guilt. Unlike other superheroes, Peacemaker kills his enemies and the moral consequences of this come to bite him literally and emotionally.
On a larger scale the season delves into multiversal territory, connecting it with the extended DC Cinematic Universe Gunn leads. Peacemaker ventures into Earth X, an alternate reality where America has been taken over by Nazis. Gunn uses this storyline to make controversial political statements, build tension and break down Peacemaker’s sense of justice and identity.
For those who enjoyed season 1, season 2 is an excellent improvement. Even for those not interested in superhero shows, Peacemaker is a riveting and dramatic story, elevated with excellent acting, especially from John Cena. The season deals with a lot of plot lines, but it handles them effectively and efficiently. The season is perfect until the end. While the finale has its positives, it is a step down from the rest of the series because of its lack of focus and conclusiveness. It establishes a strong precedent for season three but handles the end of this season somewhat messily.
All in all, Peacemaker season 2 is a masterclass which deserves a watch because of its brilliant fusion of action, comedy, and depth.
