Warner Brothers released their new DC comics television show, “Peacemaker,” on Jan. 13. The series is directed by James Gunn, who is most famously known for his work in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the director for both “Guardians of the Galaxy” films. Although Gunn is more recognizable with Marvel properties, it didn’t stop him from directing DC properties as he directed 2021’s “The Suicide Squad” and now “Peacemaker.”  

Gunn’s unique directing style is seen in full effect in the show as he relies heavily on the soundtrack of his projects to help progress the story by having music represent a character’s emotions or by showcasing their musical interests. The show has a phenomenal cast with John Cena as Christopher Smith/ Peacemaker, Danielle Brooks as Leota Adebayo, Chukwudi Iwuji as Clemson Murn, Jennifer Holland as Emilia Harcourt, Steve Agee as John Economos and Freddie Stroma as Adrian Chase/ Vigilante. 

The show takes place after the post credits scene of “The Suicide Squad” in which it is revealed that after a fatal bullet wound, Peacemaker, otherwise known as Christopher Smith, would pull through and live to fight another day. Smith is put on a team with Murn, Adebayo, Harcourt, Economos and eventually Vigilante in order to stop the spread of an alien species called “Butterflies.”  

It’s a basic plot on paper, but the show does a great job working in some great action scenes and funny character moments throughout the team’s crusade to stop the spread of Butterflies. The characters are the strongest part of the show in my opinion and are what sold me on the show from episode one. I was hesitant to watch the show because I’m not a big fan of John Cena’s acting, but due to the nature of his character and the way he is written, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself enjoying Cena’s performance, and my feelings towards him as an actor have changed significantly.  

Peacemaker’s character is best described as self-centered and arrogant but deep down he has a good heart, and Cena highlights the various aspects of Peacemaker’s character perfectly.  The show is a chaotic, gory and hilarious thrill ride. Currently the show is planned to have an eight-episode run on HBO Max and is shaping up to be a strong start to a potentially great line up of DC movie-based shows.