Review: ‘Suicide Squad ISEKAI’ Is DC’s Best Anime Adaptation

Warner Bros. Japan and WIT Studio have teamed up to create an all-new original anime series titled Suicide Squad: Isekai. Fan-favorite villains like Harley Quinn, Deadshot, Clayface, King Shark, and Peacemaker are transported to an epic fantasy world and tasked with a deadly mission.

It could have easily been a mediocre series capitalizing on the trends of superheroes and anime. Instead Suicide Squad ISEKAI showcases the creative potential of DC characters and the anime fantasy genre. This is the strongest collaboration between a Western IP and an Anime studio since Cyberpunk: Edgerunners. Whether your a fan of DC comics, anime, or both, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Harley Quinn’s manic personality fits perfectly within the anime aesthetic. The creators take on the character is refreshingly modern but maintains her classic appeal. Deadshot, King Shark, and Peacemaker feel as fully realized as their live-action counterparts. But the character who really shines in the series is Clayface. The “pretty boy B-list actor” interpretation of the shape-shifting villain is hilarious. Additionally Clayface’s ability to turn into creatures and weapons works wonders in the fantasy setting. My favorite battle features Clayface turning into a sword for Harley to use against Katana.

While the original characters aren’t as fleshed out as the DC characters, they do a serviceable job and the “final boss” is quite fun. Tappei Nagatsuki (ReZero) really nailed the DC characters where many other creators have struggled with them. Each episode left me with a big goofy grin on my face as I eagerly awaited the next adventure. To have such an unusual collaboration turn out so well is cause for celebration. I can safely say that this is one of DC’s strongest animated projects in recent years.

Suicide Squad: Isekaiis now streaming on Hulu and MAX.