James Gunn’s animal character mastery is on full display in Peacemaker Season 2, Episode 2, where a particularly intense action sequence features Eagly, an eagle who plays a crucial role in the story. Known for his ability to craft compelling non-human characters across his Marvel and DC projects, Gunn makes these animals more than side elements—they become integral, emotionally resonant parts of the narrative.
In Peacemaker, Eagly’s actions in one violent, satisfying fight scene confirm just how vital such characters can be, highlighting Gunn’s knack for blending brutality with emotional depth through the presence of his animal figures.
How James Gunn’s Affection for Animal Characters Shaped His Work on Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad
James Gunn’s love for animal or creature characters dates back over a decade, as evidenced by the 2014 release of Guardians of the Galaxy. At the time, many were skeptical about including characters like Rocket, a talking raccoon voiced by Bradley Cooper, and Groot, a living tree brought to life by Vin Diesel’s voice acting. Despite initial doubts, these characters quickly became fan favorites due to their distinct personalities and emotional resonance.
Rocket’s tragic backstory, which influences much of the narrative in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, contributes to the film’s darker tone, ultimately making the happy resolution more impactful. Groot’s limited speech contrasts with his lasting presence, underscoring Gunn’s skill at imbuing animal characters with memorable charm.
Bringing this expertise to DC, Gunn’s 2021 film, The Suicide Squad, introduced audiences to other standout animal-related characters. King Shark, voiced by Sylvester Stallone, emerged as one of the most sympathetic figures, his search for friendship adding depth to the story. Ratcatcher II, portrayed by Daniela Melchior, further exemplified Gunn’s ability to weave animal connections into the emotional core of his projects, as her bond with animals significantly influences the climactic battle.
Even characters with smaller parts, like Weasel (played by Sean Gunn), have rich backstories revealed in the related series Creature Commandos, where he is depicted as an innocent among a group of criminals, reinforcing the emotional weight Gunn gives to animal and non-human figures.
Krypto’s Role in Superman Shows the Extent of Gunn’s Animal Storytelling Prowess
In the series Superman, Krypto the Superdog exemplifies Gunn’s skill with animal characterization. Early in the show, Krypto is portrayed as an energetic and sometimes exhausting companion to Clark Kent, played by David Corenswet, conveying a realistic pet-owner dynamic that fans can relate to. Designed after Gunn’s own dog, Ozu, Krypto performs subtle behaviors—resting his head on Clark’s chest and jumping swiftly into vehicles—that lend authenticity to the canine’s personality.
More than a pet, Krypto serves as Clark’s moral compass, sometimes even surpassing the influence of Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) in motivating the hero’s ethical decisions. An ironic twist reveals that Krypto is not Clark’s dog but is rather being cared for on behalf of Kara (Milly Alcock) during her absence, adding a layer of complexity to their relationship.
Similarly, Eagly in Peacemaker holds an important emotional place for Christopher Smith (John Cena). Despite being voiceless, with only bird sounds provided by Dee Bradley Baker, Eagly offers unwavering companionship to Smith, who has lost his father, brother, and personal conscience. This loyalty is pivotal, and the show offers a rare glimpse into the potential danger such an animal could pose when pushed to extremes.
The Spotlight on Eagly: A Brutal and Memorable Action Scene in Peacemaker
In a standout home invasion scene in Peacemaker, Eagly faces off against five expert marksmen from ARGUS. With Christopher Smith occupied elsewhere, Eagly serves as the sole defender, turning what looks like an impossible situation into a surprising and fierce contest. Despite being a pet, Eagly’s natural lethality as an eagle comes through as the bird takes down its opponents one by one, inflicting brutal but non-lethal damage.
This intense scene not only showcases Eagly’s physical prowess but also highlights the strong emotional connection viewers have developed with him. The eagle’s loyalty contrasts with its vulnerability, as just one well-placed shot could take Eagly down, reminding audiences of the high stakes involved.
Furthermore, the encounter serves as a narrative device, delaying ARGUS’s advance and foreshadowing their inevitable return. The fight underscores the profound impact an animal companion can have within such stories—not only as a source of relentless support for the protagonist but also as a formidable force against adversaries.
James Gunn’s Animal Characters as Emotional Anchors and Story Drivers
Across his projects, James Gunn has proven that animal characters are far more than mere sidekicks or comic relief. Through characters like Rocket, King Shark, Krypto, and Eagly, Gunn crafts emotional cores that deepen the stakes and enrich the stories. These creatures often embody themes of loyalty, innocence, and moral guidance, providing balance to the human characters’ struggles.
In Peacemaker, this tradition continues with Eagly, who acts as Christopher Smith’s sole unjudging companion amid personal losses and internal conflicts. The brutal action sequence featuring Eagly reinforces Gunn’s ongoing mastery at making animal characters central to both the emotional and narrative momentum of his works.
Looking ahead, the renewed focus on animal characters in series like Peacemaker signals that audiences can expect further exploration of these nuanced roles in Gunn’s future projects, blending intense action with heartfelt storytelling through the eyes of both humans and their animal counterparts.
