Fun, intriguing, and loaded with over-the-top violence, “The Suicide Squad” is a wild ride, but it’s not for everyone.

After we got the travesty known as 2016’s “Suicide Squad,” the DC Extended Universe decided to give the film a second chance, with James Gunn’s vision in the director’s chair.

What we got was a less-censored and more mature version of what we saw in 2016. Gunn provided us with the right amount of action and comedy that you would want out of a superhero movie. It sure is an improvement from what we received years ago.

However, the direction that Gunn took with this movie has very much stirred up some controversy. Many felt that the movie was a bit too much for a film that’s within the DC Extended Universe. The graphic visuals and harsh language throughout the film didn’t sit right with some viewers.

One of the biggest controversies to come out of this movie has to do with the United Kingdom. When the movie came out with a 15-certificate, many felt that the rating was set way too low considering the large amount of mature content throughout the film.

From the opening beach sequence that showcased Gunn’s amazing visual effects to just regular banter between the Suicide Squad that provided many memorable lines and laugh-out-loud moments, “The Suicide Squad” is filled with many scenes and moments that demonstrate the perfect blend between action and comedy.

“I was amazed that they went with a massive starfish as the villain of the film, and each of the scenes with it was both hilarious and bizarre. When the character was finally revealed in all its glory, I was surprised,” Trinity English and Broadcast Journalism teacher Mr. Tyler Harris said.

While the focus of this film is its obsessive use of comedy and gore, there are a few scenes that highlight hidden themes within the movie.

Trinity film studies teacher Mr. Chad Waggoner said, “Without giving away too much of a spoiler, the last words of Starro at the end of the film I think get glanced over just so quickly, and that it’s actually a very profound statement from someone whom you would think is the villain. But if you really listen to his words, you begin to realize that he wasn’t the villain.”

Aside from younger audiences and those who felt the movie was too mature, who would the target audience be for this film?

Waggoner said, “Comic book movies are becoming some of Hollywood’s biggest blockbusters. So of course, if you’re a superhero fan, you’re going to enjoy it.”

Superhero blockbusters have not only attracted superhero fans but a large majority of the young adult audience.

Harris said, “It seemed like it was directed at people who were anywhere from 14 or 15 years old to their mid-20s. I think anyone older than that wouldn’t understand some of the jokes, and it would be too inappropriate for anyone younger than that.”

Those who felt this movie should be considered a hard R-rated film would be surprised to know that Warner Bros. was pushing for the movie to be PG-13. “The Suicide Squad” was filled with many creative murders and strong language. But that almost wasn’t the case, as Warner Bros. asked Gunn to make a PG-13 movie.

In the end, an R-rating was nonnegotiable when it came to the compromises that Gunn made with the studio.

With Covid-19 still present throughout the country, streaming services are continuing to add movies that are currently in theaters to their library. Is it better to save money and stay home to watch the movie, or is “The Suicide Squad” worth the movie theater experience?

Trinity senior Owen Cronen said, “I would say that this movie is worth the movie theater experience if you can go because it provides better sound and a much bigger screen. There are also fewer distractions, so you are more focused on the movie itself. However, there is no problem with watching it at home. You still get a very good movie and good enough sound.”

The DC Extended Universe has had some trouble finding its footing. However, they really hit it out of the park with this one. Many feel the movie takes advantage of the comedy aspect as well as the gore. This is where the movie succeeds the most.

James Gunn knows what kind of movie he wants to make: an over-the-top funny and violent rollercoaster of a film. So, forget about the disappointing 2016 original. Experience the new and improved version that understands what we want out of a superhero movie.