James Gunn’s Superman was designed as a fresh start for movies and TV shows based on DC Comics characters, with David Corenswet taking on the role of Superman. However, this change marked a departure from Henry Cavill’s desaturated edgelord aesthetic. In contrast, Peacemaker Season 2 sees John Cena reprise his role as the lovable but troubled hero Chris Smith.
The second season follows Chris as he navigates a parallel universe where his life took a different turn. This new reality allows him to confront his unhappy past and the traumatic experiences that shaped him into the person he is today. With this change, Gunn gives the character more depth and sympathy, making Chris a more relatable figure.
The supporting cast remains a highlight of the show, with Jennifer Holland’s Harcourt and Danielle Brooks’ Adebayo providing a foil to Chris’s journey. The humor has shifted from relying on Peacemaker himself to focusing on ancillary characters, such as Freddie Stroma’s Adrian “Vigilante” Chase and Steve Agee’s John Economos.
While the second season still features inventive fight scenes and an over-the-top soundtrack, there is a notable tone shift. The show now explores more serious themes, making it unclear whether Peacemaker will remain primarily a humorous series or if Gunn will adapt to a more dramatic tone.
The first five episodes of Season 2 have been released, with the remaining three episodes set to premiere weekly on August 21st.
Source: https://www.rollingstone.com/tv-movies/tv-movie-reviews/peacemaker-season-2-1235403127