James Gunn faced a crucial decision while developing the James Gunn Peacemaker twist in Season 2, as he had to confirm that Danielle Brooks was prepared for a surprising storyline reveal. The unsettling plot uncovers that Chris’s seemingly perfect world is actually governed by a Nazi regime, a controversial direction that nearly did not proceed without the actress’s full support.
Behind the Scenes of Peacemaker’s Unsettling Revelation
Before filming the episode with the shocking twist, James Gunn engaged in extensive discussions with Danielle Brooks to ensure she was comfortable with the story’s sensitive content. In a recent interview with GQ, Gunn explained how he approached Brooks prior to finalizing the script.
“I think we’re being thoughtful about it. When I was first writing the episodes and I first finished the episode, I sent it to Danielle Brooks and we had a big conversation. I wanted to make sure she was okay with everything.”
— James Gunn, DC Studios Co-CEO
This candid exchange highlights Gunn’s careful consideration of the implications in portraying a world ruled by Nazi ideology, reflecting the difficult but deliberate creative choice behind the episode. Despite the controversial subject matter, fans praised the bold introduction of Earth-X into the DC Universe (DCU), praising the narrative risk.
Origins and Significance of Earth-X in the DC Comics Universe
The revelation that Chris’s idyllic world is controlled by a Nazi-aligned regime draws from the lore of Earth-X, a parallel universe originally presented in DC Comics. First appearing in Justice League of America #107 during the classic ‘Crisis on Multiple Earths‘ crossover, Earth-X imagines a dystopian outcome where Nazi Germany won World War II.
In this alternate reality, the Nazis developed advanced technologies, including nuclear arms, enabling them to dominate the globe. This version of Earth also features a dark counterpart to Superman, known as Overman, who allies with the fascist regime.
This dystopian Earth-X serves as a stark contrast to Earth-1 and Earth-2, which embody more optimistic futures. Classic comic events saw heroes from the Justice League of America, the Justice Society of America, and the Freedom Fighters unite to confront this tyrannical version of Earth. By incorporating Earth-X into the current DCU canon, the Peacemaker series expands its narrative depth and complexity, opening doors for more intense and thought-provoking storytelling in upcoming episodes.
What Fans Can Look Forward to in Peacemaker Season 2 Episode 7
Following the revelation of this dark universe, the immediate challenge for characters will be escaping this oppressive regime and locating Adebayo, who was last chased by a pursuing group with Keith in the lead. Additionally, rescuing John Economos from captivity at the Blue Dragon’s hideout will remain a priority.
One of the most anticipated elements of the upcoming episode is the involvement of Lex Luthor, who has been contacted by Rick Flag Sr. while imprisoned at Belle Reve. Luthor’s expertise on multiverse science could become pivotal as the QUC (Quantum Uncertainty Cube) increasingly becomes central to the story’s progression within the DCU.
Speculation has also heightened around a cameo from David Corenswet, possibly portraying either Superman or Earth-X’s Overman, adding another intriguing layer to the narrative. This appearance could further solidify the show’s connection to the broader DC franchise, hinting at new directions and characters to be introduced as the season concludes.
Peacemaker Season 2 is available for streaming on HBO Max in the United States.
