As a longtime fan of DC Comics, I must say that the recent news about the cast for “Creature Commandos” has me absolutely thrilled! Alan Tudyk, with his versatile acting skills and rich voicework experience, is an excellent choice to bring life to not one, but three different characters in this series.
Creature Commandos, which is set to be the initial project in James Gunn and Peter Safran’s DCU plans, is quite an unusual choice. Characters such as Superman and Batman were given, while Swamp Thing and Booster Gold have had dedicated fan bases with potential for big-screen adaptations. However, it was highly unexpected that Creature Commandos would be announced. This team first appeared in 1980’s Weird War Tales #93, created by J. M. DeMatteis and Pat Broderick. Over the years, the team has undergone several transformations in the comics, but it was never a major title for DC Comics. Nevertheless, this supernatural military unit composed of monsters shares similarities with Guardians of the Galaxy and serves as a spiritual counterpart to the Suicide Squad.
The animated series titled “Creature Commandos” has garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics and marks an exciting beginning for James Gunn’s upcoming DC Universe (DCU), slated to continue with “Superman” in 2025. Initially released on December 5, 2025, the series leaves ample room for numerous characters to transition into live-action format. Here’s a glance at the core team members, their respective actors, and potential roles they might assume in the DCU’s future. Additionally, some DC characters have been confirmed to make an appearance within this series.
Frank Grillo as Rock Flagg Sr.
Created by John Ostrander and Luke McDonnell
First Appearance: Secret Origins #14 (May 1987)
In comic books, Rick Flagg Senior is known as the initial commander of the World War II version of the Suicide Squad. This role was portrayed by Joel Kinnaman in both the 2016 film “Suicide Squad” and its 2021 sequel, “The Suicide Squad.” In a forthcoming series titled “Creature Commandos,” Idris Elba will take on the roles of both the leader and general for The Creature Commandos and the new head of A.R.G.U.S. It is revealed in this series that Rick Flag Senior was 18 years old when he had his son, which explains the relatively small age difference between Idris Elba and Joel Kinnaman.
The New Face of the DCU
As a passionate cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that I, Frank Grillo, have been cast as Rick Flagg Sr. in the upcoming project, “Creature Commandos.” Known for my gripping portrayal of Sergeant Leo Barnes in the “Purge” films, I also had the privilege of being part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, playing Brock Rumlow, aka Crossbones, in “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” “Captain America: Civil War,” “Avengers: Endgame,” and “What If…?” Now, I’m excited to step into a new chapter, joining the DCU where I can bring my skills to a more expansive role.
In the upcoming years of 2025, the character Rick Flag, played by Frank Grillo, will show up in both the shows “Superman” and “Peacemaker”. Similar to how Samuel L. Jackson’s Nick Fury served as a common element across many initial Marvel Cinematic Universe projects, it seems that Rick Flag Sr. is taking on a similar role within the DC Universe.
Indira Varma as The Bride
Created by: Grant Morrison and Doug Mahnke
First Appearance: Seven Soldiers: Frankenstein #3 (April 2006)
In this storyline, the central character is none other than “The Bride.” Her persona is reminiscent of the Bride of Frankenstein, first introduced by Mary Shelley in her novel “Frankenstein” and later popularized in the 1933 film “Bride of Frankenstein” produced by Universal Pictures. Unlike the comic book version, this animated series portrays The Bride with only two arms instead of four. It is revealed that she was manufactured in the country Pokolistan by Victor Frankenstein, intended as a bride for Eric Frankenstein. However, The Bride chooses not to be with Eric and instead bonds with her creator, leading to his demise. From then on, The Bride embarks on a lengthy quest spanning centuries to free herself from the grasp of Eric Frankenstein.
The Star Character
Indira Varma has been cast to portray The Bride in the DC Universe. Her first film was “Kama Sutra: A Tale of Love” from 1996. She is most recognized for her roles as Ellaria Sand on “Game of Thrones” and Niobe on “Rome”. Additionally, this isn’t Varma’s initial appearance in the DC Universe, as she previously acted as Ilsa Pucci in the brief-lived DC series “Human Target”.
David Harbour as Eric Frankenstein
Created by: Edmond Hamilton and Bob Kane
First Appearance: Detective Comics #135 (May 1948)
Eric Frankenstein’s character strongly resonates with the monster from Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein.” He has graced the pages of DC Comics since 1948, undergoing numerous transformations throughout this period. In the 1980s, he became a member of the original Creature Commandos comic series. Within the context of DC Comics, the events described in Mary Shelley’s novel are portrayed as genuine occurrences, with the monster being revived in the contemporary era.
Contrary to the way many media portrayals show him, the character Eric Frankenstein in “Creature Commandos” will be articulate and eloquent. Additionally, while there are suggestions that he may harbor feelings for the Bride, it seems those feelings are not mutual. In fact, some hints from the cast and crew of “Creature Commandos” suggest that Eric Frankenstein’s affection could border on an unhealthy obsession with her.
Eric Frankenstein Sounds a Lot Like Red Guardian
David Harbour has been announced to lend his voice to Eric Frankenstein in the animated series ‘Creature Commandos’. Harbour gained significant fame for his role as Hopper on the popular Netflix show ‘Stranger Things’. Prior to this, he was a versatile actor who appeared in films such as ‘Brokeback Mountain’, ‘Quantum of Solace’, and ‘Green Hornet’. This marks Harbour’s third venture into superhero roles. Earlier, he portrayed Hellboy, another character with a monster theme, in the 2019 reboot of ‘Hellboy’. Additionally, Harbour plays Red Guardian in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, making his debut in ‘Black Widow’ and set to reappear in ‘Thunderbolts’ in 2025.
Zoë Chao as Dr. Nina Mazursky
Created by: Jeff Lemire and Ibaiam Roberson
First Appearance: Frankenstein: Agents of S.H.A.D.E. (November 2011)
As a movie buff, I’d put it like this: In the vibrant world of comics, I, Dr. Nina Mazursky, embody the intriguing character known as the Gilman-type creature or simply, the Mermaid. Born or transformed at an early age, my genetic experiments have given me a unique identity – half-human, half-sea creature. In this underwater realm, I need a special suit to breathe on land. The creators of Creature Commandos subtly suggest that I am the kindest soul among them, and I’m looking forward to forging a bond with G.I. Robot in our shared adventures.
A Rising Star
Zoë Chao has been selected to play Dr. Nina Marzursky in the upcoming series, “Creature Commandos.” Chao is well-known for her roles in films such as “The High Note” and “Long Weekend.” In 2023, she starred in two romantic comedies that premiered on the same day – Netflix’s “Your Place or Mine” and Amazon Prime’s “Somebody I Used To Know.” She has also enjoyed a successful run on television, with recent appearances in leading roles for “The Afterparty” and the revival of “Party Down.” You can catch her in “Nightbitch,” which hit theaters the day after “Creature Commandos” premiered on Max.
Alan Tudyk as Doctor Phosphorus
Created by Steve Englehart and Walt Simonson
First Appearance: Detective Comics #469 (May 1977)
Doctor Phosphorus is an under-the-radar yet recurring antagonist in the Batman series. Unlike other characters, he did not belong to the Creature Commandos team as depicted in the original comics. It’s possible that his appearance in the Creature Commandos comic could be hinting at a potential tie between this character and Batman for the upcoming movie, “The Brave and the Bold: Batman and Robin.
The character is portrayed as the fiercest member of the Creature Commandos, and his appearance in the series is characterized by a radioactive skeleton accentuated with the well-known Kirby Krackle, a graphic element frequently used by legendary artist Jack Kirby to depict power and energy emanating from a character.
A Familiar Face and Voice to DC
In the upcoming series, Alan Tudyk will portray Doctor Phosphorus. Many viewers who are following Creature Commandos may recognize Tudyk from his previous roles. He played Walsh on Firefly , and K2SO in Rouge One: A Star Wars Story. Additionally, he has brought luck to Disney animated films as he has lent his voice to a character in every Disney animated film since Wreck-It-Ralph.
Tudyk is no stranger to the DC Universe. He voiced The Flash on Batman: The Brave and the Bold and Green Arrow on Young Justice. He also played Mr. Nobody on the first season of Doom Patrol, Van Wayne on the short-lived DC workplace comedy Powerless, and currently voices both Joker and Clayface on Harley Quinn. Tudyk will voice a few more characters in Creature Commandos; more on them in a bit.
Sean Gunn as G.I. Robot
Created by Robert Kanigher, Ross Andru, and Mike Esposito
First Appearance: Star Spangled War Stories #101 (February 1962)
There have been six versions of G.I. Robot in DC Comics history, but all are advanced experimental androids designed for combat. The G.I. Robot in Creature Commandos fought in World War II, seemingly alongside the battalion Easy Company and soldier Sgt. Rock, possibly setting up the planned film starring Daniel Craig and directed by Luca Guadagnino. G.I. Robot has a passion for killing Nazis, and only felt humans killing them during World World II, and might find a new purpose in a world that is seemingly embracing fascism.
Nazi Killer
In the upcoming series “Creature Commandos”, Sean Gunn will lend his voice to the character G.I. Robot and portray him within the broader DC Universe. Being the brother of director James Gunn, they have collaborated on numerous projects. Notably, Sean Gunn serves as the on-set performance reference for Rocket Raccoon in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and plays Kraglin, the Ravager. Previously, he appeared as Weasel in “The Suicide Squad” and made a cameo as Calendar Man. Many may recognize him from his role as Kirk in “Gilmore Girls”. Additionally, Sean Gunn is slated to take on another significant part in the new DCU, portraying Maxwell Lord, who will make his debut in “Superman”.
Sean Gunn as Weasel
Created by Gerry Conway and Rafael Kayanan
First Appearance: The Fury of Firestorm #36 (June 1985)
In the 1980s, Weasel debuted as a DC Comics villain, targeting the hero Firestorm. However, a revamped version of this character was presented in “The Suicide Squad” as a more ferocious and wild creature. During the mission, it seemed Weasel had perished, but a post-credits scene unveiled his survival, showing him darting into Corto Maltese’s forest. Contrary to comic book lore, Weasel is not part of Creature Commandos; instead, he seems to be filling the role previously held by Warren Griffith, a werewolf team member in the comics. This ties in with a humorous aspect from “The Suicide Squad,” where they deceive the villain Blackguard into believing Weasel is a werewolf.
Weasel Lived To Fight Another Day
Apart from his roles as G.I. Robot and Weasel, Sean Gunn will reprise his role as Weasel from “The Suicide Squad” in “Creature Commandos”. Since Weasel didn’t speak in “The Suicide Squad”, the series version of Weasel is expected to only make the same sounds he made in the movie, making it easier for Gunn to play both characters. This move is also part of Gunn’s plans for his DCU, where characters who portray live-action roles will also voice their animated counterparts, and vice versa, marking a significant step in this direction.
Anya Chalotra as Circe
Created by Robert Kanigher and Harry G. Peter
First Appearance: Wonder Woman #37 (September/October 1949)
In the animated series Creature Commandos, notable characters such as Frankenstein and The Bride hail from timeless literature, and its antagonist follows suit. Circe, inspired by the Greek mythical character from The Odyssey, is a formidable sorceress who has encountered adversaries like Wonder Woman in mythology, but she also clashes with heavyweights such as Superman and The Justice League. The show sets her up as an Amazon, with Pokolistan being a part of the Amazon nation Themiscarya, which Circe claims is rightfully hers to govern.
A Wonderous Villain
Actress Anya Chalotra lends her voice to the character Circe in the series “Creature Commandos”. She has gained significant recognition for portraying Yennefer of Vengerberg in the Netflix show “The Witcher”. Besides this, she has voiced another mythological figure, Greek goddess Sif, in Zack Snyder’s “Twilight of the Gods” on Netflix. Over the last few years, Chalotra has risen as a promising talent and was included in Forbes 30 Under 30 list for European entertainment. Given that the Wonder Woman prequel series “Paradise Lost” is being developed within James Gunn’s DCU, there’s a strong possibility that Chalotra will reprise her role as Circe.
Maria Bakalova as Princess Ilana Rostovic
Created by James Gunn
First Appearance: Creature Commandos
Character named Princess Ilana Rostovic was uniquely crafted for the comic series, “Creature Commandos.” As a noble figure from the fictitious nation, Pokolistan, she finds herself pursued by the wicked Circe. Her storyline unfolds with a growing romantic and sensual attraction towards Rick Flag Sr. A significant portion of the “Creature Commandos” narrative is set within her homeland, Pokolistan.
The First Character Cast in the DCU
Maria Bakalova has been chosen to portray Princess Illana Rostovic in an upcoming DCU project. Director James Gunn announced that Bakalova was the initial cast member, and he tailored the Pokolistan accent for the character based on her own voice. Previously, Bakalova collaborated with James Gunn in “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3,” where she provided the voice for Cosmo.
In 2020, Bakalova gained recognition through her performance in the mockumentary film “Borat Subsequent Moviefilm,” a role that garnered her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She has since established herself in the genre of horror comedy with the movie “Bodies Bodies Bodies” and more recently, she’s appeared in the buzzworthy and controversial series “The Apprentice,” where she portrays Ivana Trump, who was the first wife of Donald Trump.
Viola Davis as Amanda Waller
Created by John Ostrander, Len Wein, and John Byrne.
First Appearance: Legends #1 (November 1986)
Amanda Waller is a renowned character in DC Comics lore, frequently associated with agencies such as A.R.G.U.S. and Checkmate. Despite not possessing superpowers, her imposing presence and unquestionable authority enable her to stand toe-to-toe with heavyweights like Batman and Lex Luthor. This is the same iteration of Amanda Waller from the DC Extended Universe, one of the select characters carried over from the previous franchise.
In the finale of “Peacemaker,” it was Leota (Danielle Brooks) who exposed Waller’s unlawful operations associated with Task Force X. Meanwhile, in “Creature Commandos,” due to restrictions, Waller now forms a new team, known as Task Force M, comprised of monstrous beings instead of humans. It has been announced that Waller will star in her own spin-off series, titled Max, within James Gunn’s DCU.
Viola Davis Moves from the DCEU to the DCU
As a dedicated movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to once again step into the shoes of Amanda Waller, a role I’ve had the privilege to portray in multiple films such as 2016’s Suicide Squad, The Suicide Squad in 2021, Peacemaker and Black Adam in 2022. Being an EGOT winner, I’ve been fortunate enough to claim an Academy Award for my role in Fences in 2016, and have also been recognized with nominations for Doubt, The Help, and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. My successful tenure as the lead of How To Get Away with Murder is also worth mentioning, along with memorable performances in Air, Widows, and The Woman King.
Alan Tudyk as Clayface
Created by Bill Finger and Bob Kane
First Appearance: Detective Comics #40 (June 1940)
Fans of DC Comics were caught off guard yet thrilled to notice Clayface, a Batman adversary, in the teaser for Creature Commandos. While there have been numerous Clayface iterations in DC Comics, Basil Karlo is arguably the most recognized. However, it’s important to note that Clayface isn’t part of the Creature Commandos team; instead, he seems to be one of several DC characters making an appearance in this new series, potentially expanding the universe. This move may hint at the possibility of his future appearances in either The Brave and the Bold or Dynamic Duo.
Same Face, Same Voice
In the upcoming series “Creature Commandos”, it’s Alan Tudyk who will lend his voice to Clayface. Interestingly, Tudyk has previously voiced a Clayface character in the Max series “Harley Quinn”, which is also associated with Dean Lorey, the showrunner of “Creature Commandos”. Tudyk seems excited about exploring two distinct portrayals of the same character. In “Harley Quinn”, his interpretation leans towards comedy, focusing on the character’s background as an actor. On the other hand, the Clayface for “Creature Commandos” will take a darker, more sinister approach.
Alan Tudyk as Will Magnus
Created by Robert Kanigher and Ross Andru
First Appearance: Showcase #37 (April 1962)
Doctor Will Magnus, renowned for his brilliance in the DC Universe, is the inventor of the superhero team, The Metal Men. This group consists of robotic heroes whose abilities and characteristics are tied to specific metals. It appears that Dr. Magnus might be involved in the backstory of G.I. Robot, possibly as his creator or a scientist who works on him later in his life. DC has been trying to produce a Metal Men movie since before the establishment of the DCEU, with Barry Sonnenfeld, director of “Men in Black,” originally slated to direct a live-action film in 2012.
2021 saw the announcement that John Musker and Ron Clements, acclaimed directors known for their work on Disney animated films such as “The Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin,” and “Moana,” would be directing an animated film based on Marvel Comics’ Metal Men. Since then, there has been no further news about the project. However, Will Magnus’s presence in “Creature Commandos” suggests that a version of the Metal Men may make an appearance in the DC Universe.
Set Up for a Potential Film?
Alan Tudyk is providing the voice for Will Magnus, and he’s styled his performance after Mike Nichols, director of “The Graduate.” However, it’s not mandatory for actors who work on animated projects to also provide voices for their live-action counterparts in minor roles within early animation projects.
In other words, Alan Tudyk providing the voice for Will Magnus in “Creature Commandos” doesn’t automatically require him to act in a live-action role. But if the animated Metal Men movie is still being considered, there’s a possibility that he could lend his voice to the character in that film since he has previously collaborated with Musker and Clements on “Moana.
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2024-12-07 04:04