Why the 2016 Suicide Squad Fails to Impress: A Comprehensive Analysis

The 2016 film Suicide Squad was a significant release in the superhero genre, designed to build a powerhouse franchise without achieving the same success as its predecessors. This film, directed by David Ayer, is often criticized for its shortcomings. But what exactly makes it so subpar? Let’s delve into the critical aspects that weigh down this outing.

Why Was Suicide Squad 2016 So Bad?

1. It Sucked

The most straightforward and relatable reason Suicide Squad 2016 is considered a failure by many viewers is that it simply wasn't enjoyed. When audiences walk out of a theater in the middle of a movie or resort to mindless browsing on their phones, it strongly indicates that the film didn't meet the standards of entertainment. This disinterest borders on boredom and dissatisfaction.

2. Lack of Memorability

One of the film's biggest misses is its inability to leave a lasting impression. There is no memorable scene, plot twist, or character development that stands out. The narrative is often described as insipid and uninspired, failing to engage the audience on a level that could spark genuine interest or excitement.

3. Poor Writing

Suicide Squad 2016 suffered from significant flaws in its writing, which ultimately led to a disjointed and confusing plot. The convoluted narrative not only failed to convey a clear story but also included dialogue that felt awkward and forced. This structural issue contributed significantly to the film's overall disappointment.

4. Characters and Naming

The names given to the characters were often a source of frustration for viewers. Take, for example, Harley Quinn, whose name, while clever, is also exceptionally poorly considered. The name Harley Quinn seems to mock the audience, borrowing from the literary world (harlequin) in a way that falls flat. This naming convention, reminiscent of the Simpsons where Bart would call in fake names to annoy the teacher, adds an insult to the established name hierarchy.

These names were reminiscent of characters in Dungeons and Dragons (DnD), where players often create egregious names for their characters—like Krak O'Kain or Vara Kosa the Barbarian Mistress of Destruction. Such naming practices are meant to annoy and add humor but can fall flat in a broader context. In this case, it seems more like a juvenile attempt at humor that didn't resonate well with the audience.

5. Character Development

Charismatic and complex characters are a hallmark of successful superhero films, but Suicide Squad 2016 lacked this depth. Characters like Colonel Norbert G. "Norty" Flag and even The Joker were left underdeveloped and uninteresting. Colonel Flag, for instance, felt like a carbon copy of Colonel Kurtz from Apocalypse Now, with the same hat, cigar, and canned dialogues. This reuse of cliché satirical tropes failed to add any new value to the narrative.

6. Visual Elements and Finances

The visual aesthetics of the film were another area of concern. The film's dark cinematography and choppy editing style were criticized for adding little value. The quick cuts were seen as a way to mask poor storytelling, and the loud soundtrack only served to distract from the content. Moreover, the film's budget of over $200 million could have been better utilized for more substantial and engaging storytelling efforts.

In conclusion, while some viewers may still appreciate certain aspects of Suicide Squad 2016, the overall reception suggests that the film struggled to meet the high expectations set in the superhero world. It serves as a cautionary tale of the importance of thorough character development, cohesive writing, and effective visual storytelling in bringing a franchise to life.