Few films in recent memory have stirred as much discussion about studio interference and directorial vision as David Ayer’s 2016 rendition of Suicide Squad. While the movie enjoyed success at the box office, many fans and critics felt something was amiss. David Ayer, the man behind the lens, has repeatedly mentioned the significant alterations DC made to his authentic vision for the film.
Ayer’s recent candid conversation with Jon Bernthal on the Real Ones podcast shed more light on what went awry. Reflecting on his most significant Hollywood heartbreak, Ayer unequivocally pointed to Suicide Squad. He recalled, “That shit broke me.” At the time, Ayer had just showcased his prowess with the critically acclaimed war movie, Fury. Riding high on that success, he embarked on Suicide Squad with high hopes and a unique vision.
However, according to Ayer, the unexpected reaction to Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (which hadn’t been tested before release) sent DC into a tizzy. The studio’s panicked response was to drastically shift Suicide Squad from its original “dark, soulful” nature to a comedic tone. This move was seemingly influenced by the success of Deadpool and the criticism Batman v Superman received.
Bernthal: What is your biggest heartbreak in the film industry?
Ayer: Hollywood is like watching someone you love get f—ed by someone you hate. The big one is Suicide Squad. That handed me my ass.
Bernthal: How so?
Ayer: Come right off Fury, right? And then… Deadpool opened. And they never tested Batman v. Superman. Then it’s like, ‘Okay, we’re going to turn David Ayer’s dark, soulful movie into a f—ing comedy now.’
Unveiling the Ayer Cut
Over time, details about the Ayer cut of Suicide Squad have trickled out, fueling fans’ demands to see this version. Among the various changes made, Jared Leto’s Joker perhaps bore the brunt. This iconic character’s narrative arc was severely truncated, leaving audiences with a fragmented understanding of his role in the film.
Rumored scenes from Ayer’s version include the Joker negotiating with Enchantress for Harley Quinn’s return, aiming to crown himself the “King of Gotham.” Another sequence apparently bridges Suicide Squad with 2017’s Justice League, featuring Enchantress wielding a Mother Box – the very artifact Steppenwolf coveted.
Moreover, Ayer’s cut supposedly offered a harmonious blend of somber and lighthearted moments. From a chilling scene where Batman grimly warns Deadshot about the lengthy duration of his imprisonment to a humorous moment with Amanda Waller advising Rick Flag and June Moon on the perils of romance, this cut seemed poised to deliver a richer cinematic experience.
With recent hints of James Gunn’s support for the release of the Ayer cut, fans are buzzing with anticipation. There’s genuine hope that the world might soon experience David Ayer’s genuine vision for Suicide Squad, untouched by studio edits and alterations.
Conclusion
David Ayer’s revelations underscore the frequent tussles between a director’s artistic intent and studio demands. As the clamor for the Ayer cut grows louder, one can only hope that audiences will someday witness the Suicide Squad as its creator truly intended. Whether this will alter public opinion or not remains to be seen, but it surely promises a deeper dive into the complex world of the Suicide Squad.
