In Season 1, Episode 4 of “Creature Commandos,” James Gunn delves deep into the tragic backstory of Weasel, a character introduced in the 2021 film “The Suicide Squad.” This episode, titled “Chasing Squirrels,” explores the events that led to Weasel being unjustly branded as a child killer.
The story begins with Weasel encountering a group of children playing near an elementary school during Thanksgiving break. Despite his animalistic appearance, Weasel is depicted as a gentle creature who poses no threat to the children. However, when an old man misinterprets Weasel’s actions as threatening, he races back to his cabin to call 911 and grab his shotgun.
As the children discover an unlocked door to the school and enter, Weasel follows them inside, joining in their playful activities. A series of unfortunate events, including playing with a teacher’s bottle of booze and accidentally igniting a fire in the boiler room, leads to a tragic outcome. The old man returns, firing at Weasel as the boiler explodes, resulting in the deaths of the man and all the children except for one little girl.
When the police arrive and see Weasel surrounded by the bodies of the children while trying to save the surviving girl, they immediately assume the worst and open fire on him. Despite Weasel’s desperate attempts to bring the child to safety, he is incapacitated by the police, and the school collapses, burying the girl alive.
The emotional weight of Weasel’s tragic past is portrayed through a poignant performance by Sean Gunn, who voices the character in the series. James Gunn’s direction to play Weasel as “a big dog” adds depth to the character, showcasing his complex emotional turmoil in the face of overwhelming tragedy.
The challenging sequence depicting the deaths of multiple children was carefully crafted to evoke the horror of the situation without being exploitative. Executive producer Dean Lorey highlights the difficulty in finding the right tone for the scene, balancing the emotional impact with sensitivity.
Overall, “Chasing Squirrels” is a harrowing episode that showcases James Gunn’s talent for exploring misunderstood characters and delving into the darker aspects of storytelling. Weasel’s heartbreaking backstory sheds light on the complexities of his character and challenges viewers to empathize with a creature who has been unfairly judged by society. In the popular show, Weasel is portrayed as a misunderstood and innocent creature who is often mistreated because of his appearance. Despite facing discrimination and being treated differently, Weasel is considered one of the most noble characters in the series. According to James Gunn, the creator of the show, Weasel’s backstory will play a significant role in the upcoming episodes, shedding light on the reasons behind his actions and behavior.
As the story unfolds, viewers will learn more about Weasel’s past and the challenges he has faced. Through his experiences, Weasel’s character is expected to evolve, showcasing his journey from a misunderstood outcast to a hero on the side of good. Gunn hints at Weasel’s inherent goodness, positioning him as a beacon of hope and morality in a world filled with darkness and deceit.
The complexities of Weasel’s character add depth to the show, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding towards those who may appear different on the surface. By delving into Weasel’s backstory, the show explores themes of acceptance, redemption, and the power of compassion in overcoming adversity.
As fans eagerly anticipate the next episodes, they can look forward to a deeper exploration of Weasel’s character and the impact he has on the overall narrative. With his noble traits and unwavering sense of justice, Weasel is poised to become a beloved figure in the show, proving that true heroism lies in compassion and resilience.
Stay tuned as Weasel’s story continues to unfold, revealing the true essence of this misunderstood character and the valuable lessons he has to offer to both the characters in the show and the viewers at home.