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The Daily Aztec
The Back Page
Aug. 25 - 31, 2021 Editor: Ryan Hardison • arts@thedailyaztec.com
Review: “The Suicide Squad” is miles better than its uneven predecessor Jason Freund SPORTS EDITOR
When DC released their live-action adaptation of the anti-hero group “Suicide Squad,” it was met with less than favorable reviews. David Ayer’s film was criticized for its plot, direction and overall tone while post-production issues plagued the film. Five years later, DC soft-rebooted the film with James Gunn, director of the acclaimed “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy, manning the helm instead of Ayer. What a difference a change in direction makes. SPOILERS AHEAD! Ayer’s “Suicide Squad” tried too hard to be over the top and violent, but also played it very safe. Some characters are introduced in wild title cards while others are welcomed with just a single line of dialogue. Gunn’s “The Suicide Squad” is exactly what the 2016 “Suicide Squad” should’ve been: destructive, comedic, gory. It is nowhere near perfect, as some moments tend to drag while the film jumps from place to place almost too quickly. Still, this isn’t enough to deter the film from being a bona fide hit. Let this be clear: this movie is not like its PG-13 predecessor. “The Suicide Squad” has the blood and violence of “Deadpool” with a noticeable “Guardians” flair. Baddies and heroes alike get regularly butchered with extreme
HBO MAX
The Sucicide Squad steps on land in Corto Maltese (@Warner Bros Pictures).
prejudice, usually in excruciatingly creative ways. (Death by rat swarm, anyone?) The writing and dialogue have also been revamped so the jokes mostly land. The comedic relief feels much more natural and comes in different ways, whether it is a slapstick death or a one-liner dropped by one of the main characters. However, the movie does have its minor flaws. New characters are rapidly thrown onto the screen while some scenes towards the middle of the film can take a little too long. The humor can also be a turn-off to some who may find it to be a little too juvenile. Speaking of characters, there are some new members who have
been invited into the squad against their will. Deadshot, portrayed in 2016 by Will Smith, is replaced by Idris Elba’s Bloodsport, who is forced into the Squad by Amanda Waller, chillingly played by Viola Davis. Elba is joined by some faces from 2016, like Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn and Joel Kinnaman’s Colonel Rick Flagg. Robbie’s portrayal of the crazed harlequin is excellent as always, but Kinnaman’s Flagg gets a much-needed facelift, as he is sillier and much less jaded this time around. The new members of the squad steal the show in their own way. John Cena’s Peacemaker is a violent extremist who
directly parallels Bloodsport in barbs and bullets with a mindset that reflects his prowrestling resumé. David Dastmalchian plays the awkward Polka-Dot Man, a man who can shoot polka dots out of his hands but is primarily used for sporadic comic relief. King Shark/Nanaue, physically portrayed by Steve Agee yet voiced by Sylvester Stallone, has the terrifying power of a great white shark with the mindset of a child. Undeniably, the heart of the movie is Ratcatcher 2, portrayed by Portuguese actress Daniela Melchior. More importantly, it’s her kind attitude and friendly aura that binds the band of misfits together, with Gunn’s direction and Melchior’s acting selling Ratcatcher as a character who truly cares about her new compatriots. As for antagonists, Waller is still as cold-blooded as she was in the first movie, commanding the Suicide Squad with ruthless tenacity. While the twist antagonist comes as a bit of a surprise, the final boss of the movie leads to a ludicrous and zany ending that can only come from the mind of James Gunn. This year’s version of “The Suicide Squad” is a vast improvement over its predecessor with a consistent vision, dominant cast and wild combat that earns it a 9/10. The film is is currently playing in theaters and available on HBO MAX for one month.
Seven songs to spice up your back-to-school playlist madison miles CONTRIBUTOR
As we jump back into school in-person, we know you need some new jams to get yourself through the semester. Whether you’re dreading going back to school or ready to dive into the books, this is the perfect playlist for your back-to-school mood. Here are seven songs to get you ready for the new school year: “Everyday” - Lecrae, Jidenna, and Limoblaze Summer is coming to an end but that doesn’t mean the summer vibes need to end too. Uplift your mood with this island sound. The three artists collaborate to make a hit that gives great advice for the upcoming year. Be stress-free, don’t hate, and don’t get distracted! Get that work done! “Industry Baby” - Lil Nas X ft. Jack Harlow If you’re up to date with all the music topping the charts, you’ll know Lil Nas X and Jack Harlow have been killing it this year. This is the perfect feel-good song with its energetic beat, which is something you may need during the transition back into school. This hit track highlights going against the odds and proving yourself — a message of motivation for the new year. “Long Way 2 Go” - Cassie School just began so we have a long way to go, but don’t let that discourage you. This song is a classic and who doesn’t love a good throwback? Early 2000s vibes are the best; there’s no denying that. “NEON PEACH” - Snoh Aalegra ft. Tyler, the Creator This fun record gives you everything that you need: R&B, hip-hop, and a little funky ‘80s vibe. Snoh Aalegra and Tyler, the Creator collaborate twice on Snoh’s
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Person accessing music on their handheld device.
new album and their musical styles mesh together perfectly. This is the PERFECT song if you want to dance away all the stress the school year will inevitably bring. “Rumors” - Lizzo ft. Cardi B Lizzo does it every time for the ladies, gays and our gender fluid music lovers. This record dismisses all the haters and rumors. This is the song for people who need a little bit of confidence as they enter this semester. Own yourself as you enter the school year and have a good time! “Skate” - Silk Sonic, Bruno Mars,
Anderson .Paak The groovy ‘70s feeling and style of music is making a resurgence and what better way to enjoy a modern version than through this song? We first heard the duo with their hit “Leave the Door Open,” which topped the charts. Now, they’ve done it again. Doesn’t it make you want to put on your roller skates and cruise to class? “Transparent Soul” - WILLOW ft. Travis Barker Willow Smith has returned to the music
scene with an amazing pop-rock album that is simply nostalgic. Many may know her from when she was whipping her hair back and forth in 2010, but, since then, her sound has changed tremendously. The crazy drums and insane guitar riffs are guaranteed to get you hype for any occasion. No matter what your back-to-school attitude is, this playlist is guaranteed to get you motivated and excited for the new year!
