The DC Universe’s momentum continued this year with the release of Superhero projects like Superman and Peacemaker Season 2, following last year’s animated Creature Commandos launch. While both shows initially garnered praise, the reception to Peacemaker shifted notably with its finale, titled Full Nelson. Some fans expressed disappointment, feeling the episode fell short of expectations. Director James Gunn acknowledged the divided opinions regarding the Season 2 finale and stated he is comfortable with the varied responses.
James Gunn Acknowledges Fan Criticism on Social Media
When asked on Threads about his awareness of the negative feedback surrounding Full Nelson, Gunn answered openly.
Definitely! Not everyone can love everything,
Gunn said, signaling his understanding of differing tastes. He also added,
I love the episode but I understand not everyone does which is completely fair.
These comments reflect Gunn’s measured stance amid the backlash.
Concerns Over Story Focus and Unresolved Plotlines
The primary criticism of the finale revolves around its emphasis on laying groundwork for future DC Universe (DCU) projects such as Salvation, rather than delivering a satisfying resolution to the 11th Street Kids’ storyline. Fans were particularly frustrated that the Earth-X conflict, central to the first seven episodes, was left unresolved. Additionally, some felt the emotional development of characters was hurried, as the episode pivoted toward introducing the Checkmate agency, leaving earlier arcs feeling incomplete. This reaction makes the finale stand out as a rare narrative misstep within the otherwise well-regarded series.
Future DCU Installments Could Shift Opinions
Despite the backlash, Full Nelson is not considered a failure by the creative team or some viewers. Although there are no current plans for a Peacemaker Season 3, the Salvation plotline introduced is set to be a major focus in upcoming DCU content, including Gunn’s next film, Man of Tomorrow. How this storyline evolves across future movies and shows will be critical in reassessing the finale’s value. Should Salvation captivate audiences and deliver impactful storytelling, it may lead fans to reassess Season 2’s closing episode as a foundational chapter in the DCU’s larger saga.
Challenges of Balancing Standalone Stories with Shared Universe Plotlines
The reactions to the Peacemaker finale illustrate the difficulties faced by franchises managing interconnected stories. DC Studios aims to create movies and series that can stand alone, enabling viewers to enjoy each installment independently. However, the overarching narrative-building requires weaving plot threads that will culminate in a broader story arc. Gunn has described Salvation as part of a bigger story being told, implying fans should anticipate continued narrative connections. This balancing act means that individual episodes sometimes function as set-up for future developments, which can risk alienating viewers seeking immediate resolution within a single story.
Potential for Reevaluation as Time Passes
Time may soften fan responses to the finale, as enthusiasm and expectations surrounding the episode settle. The anticipation was high after Gunn highlighted the importance of Full Nelson for setting up Man of Tomorrow, leading to heavy fan speculation that ultimately did not all pan out. With a clearer understanding of the episode’s role in the DCU’s evolving plotlines, viewers might approach a rewatch with increased appreciation. Whether upcoming DCU projects resonate strongly with audiences will likely influence how the finale is perceived in hindsight, perhaps allowing it to gain greater respect for its contribution to the franchise’s future.
