In a shocking move to compete with Marvel’s superhero dominance, DC has decided to “distribute” its spotlight by bringing together some of the most notorious villains and anti-heroes. This August, “Suicide Squad” will hit theaters worldwide, and fans are eagerly anticipating the on-screen appearances of iconic villains like The Joker and Harley Quinn. However, there are many members of the “Suicide Squad” that even hardcore fans might not be familiar with. Below, we have compiled the essential details about all the characters – their backgrounds, strengths, and the roles they will play in the film, so you can know “who’s who” before buying your tickets.
Amanda Waller
Actor: Viola Davis
First Appearance: Legends #1
Other Affiliations: None
Background: Waller escapes her life in Chicago after her husband and two children are murdered and later becomes a key figure in government intelligence. She discovers the existence of the “Suicide Squad” and decides to establish it for the third time, intending to manage the most dangerous criminals on this planet.
Strengths: None, which is why she needs the Suicide Squad.
On Screen: Waller is expected to be a commanding presence, exploring how she recruits these villains into the “Suicide Squad” and manages to deal with their antics while seeking a way to negotiate with the government. We hope to witness some of her dark intentions, as her comic “persona” is far from a nurturing figure.
The Joker
Actor: Jared Leto
First Appearance: Batman #1
Other Affiliations: Unknown
Background: The character has undergone various transformations over the years. In Detective Comics #168, he was a criminal known as Red Hood, while in Alan Moore’s The Killing Joke, he was an unsuccessful comedian who fell into a vat of chemicals and became the Joker. Despite these details, his essential connection to Batman remains intact, characterized by his white skin, green hair, and twisted smile aimed at the Dark Knight.
Strengths: The Joker has no superhuman abilities. Instead, he relies on his superior intellect and chaotic schemes. He is a brilliant criminal, often outsmarting those who pursue him, and enjoys using toxins like gas or poison that can turn victims into broken shells of their former selves.
On Screen: Alongside some dark humor, we will see The Joker engage in mischief with Harley Quinn. The trailer hints at scenes where they are joyriding in a stolen car, with The Joker unleashing chaos while wielding his Tommy gun, suggesting a blend of cunning and unpredictability that defines this character.
Rick Flag
Actor: Joel Kinnaman
First Appearance: The Brave and the Bold #59
Other Affiliations: None
Background: Rick Flag is the name of three different characters. Rick Flag, Sr. is the original leader of the “Suicide Squad” during World War II. Meanwhile, Rick Flag, Jr., who has appeared most frequently in comics, inherits command of the “Suicide Squad” after his father’s death. Although he leads a group of supervillains, he is often depicted as a soldier fighting against evil, rather than merely a government agent.
Strengths: As a veteran, he is highly trained in hand-to-hand combat and military tactics.
On Screen: While Amanda Waller oversees the squad, Rick Flag serves as the direct commander, ensuring the team’s missions are executed while keeping the villains in check.
Killer Croc
Actor: Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje
First Appearance: Batman #357
Other Affiliations: Waylon Jones
Background: Jones was born with a congenital condition that caused him to resemble a crocodile. He has always faced discrimination due to his appearance and ultimately became a criminal, adopting the name Killer Croc.
Strengths: His skin is as tough as steel, making it almost impenetrable, and he possesses superhuman strength and endurance, as well as rapid healing abilities.
On Screen: As the muscle of the team, we can expect Killer Croc to deliver some of the most intense action scenes.
Enchantress
Actor: Cara Delevingne
First Appearance: Strange Adventures #187
Other Affiliations: June Moone
Background: In her first appearance, June Moone is a free-spirited woman who accidentally becomes possessed by a powerful spirit named Dzamor, transforming her into Enchantress.
Strengths: She possesses magical abilities, including manipulating elements, teleportation, and flight.
On Screen: It remains unclear whether she will be a primary antagonist in the “Suicide Squad,” but Warner Bros. has kept details about her character tightly under wraps, so we’ll have to wait and see.
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