James Gunn Calls Creature Commandos Episode His Saddest Work

Creature Commandos has been expertly navigating between its historical roots and contemporary storytelling in recent episodes. The latest installments are driving the current narrative forward while also delving into the backstories of characters such as The Bride (Indira Varma) and G.I. Robot (Sean Gunn). These explorations provide fresh perspectives on the tragic events that have significantly influenced their lives and circumstances. The fourth episode, titled “Chasing Squirrels,” takes a similar path by shining a light on Weasel (also Sean Gunn) and revealing the dreadful reasons he was wrongfully accused of causing the deaths of several schoolchildren.

This episode skips over the specifics of Weasel’s origins or the nature of his character, instead focusing on the harrowing and sorrowful facts surrounding the so-called “crime” that transformed him into a figure of monstrosity in the eyes of society. In an interview with Variety, James Gunn, the creator of Creature Commandos and co-CEO of DC Studios, discussed the episode’s emotionally intense narrative, which hits even deeper than his other works like Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.

“I feel really emotional discussing this,” Gunn shared with the publication. “I remember I had just finished writing it while in Colorado with my wife, and I distinctly said, ‘I believe I just penned the saddest piece I’ve ever written in my life.’”

In the final act of “Chasing Squirrels,” viewers witness Weasel’s heartbreaking attempts to rescue the children who innocently befriended him earlier in the episode. His failure, compounded by an unjust backlash, makes Weasel the latest in a line of misunderstood outsiders whom Gunn has chosen to highlight in his storytelling, reflecting his deep compassion for society’s marginalized individuals.

“Ultimately, [Weasel] showcases nobility in many respects,” Gunn asserts. “He is essentially a harmless being who faces discrimination simply because he appears different from others.” Further discussing with Variety, Gunn hinted that Weasel’s backstory will have a significant impact on the upcoming episodes of Creature Commandos.

“You’ll see how his history plays a role in the following episodes,” the filmmaker assured. “When it comes to determining whether characters exist on a scale from good to bad, he’s firmly on the good side.”

New episodes of Creature Commandos make their debut every Thursday on Max.