Why Deadshot: Will Smith’s Decision to Join the Squad
The echoes of explosions, the rattle of machine gun fire, and the glint of Deadshot’s targeting monocle still resonate in the collective memory of comic book movie fans. *Suicide Squad*, released in the summer of two thousand sixteen, remains one of the most talked-about, and often debated, entries in the DC Extended Universe. While the film shattered box office records, it was met with a critical maelstrom. Amidst the chaos, Will Smith, a bonafide movie star, stepped into the role of Floyd Lawton, better known as Deadshot, a lethal assassin with a soft spot for his daughter. But where does *Suicide Squad* stand in the arc of Will Smith’s career, and how does Smith himself view his time as Deadshot in *Suicide Squad* years later?
This article delves into Will Smith’s journey with *Suicide Squad*, examining his initial attraction to the role, his portrayal of Deadshot, and the impact of the film’s polarizing reception on both his career and the broader landscape of superhero cinema. While *Suicide Squad* was a box office phenomenon, the film’s critical drubbing and Smith’s own evolving perspective offer a nuanced look at his time as Deadshot, revealing both the opportunities and challenges it presented.
Becoming Deadshot: Preparation and Transformation
Will Smith’s involvement in *Suicide Squad* was a significant coup for Warner Bros. and DC. Landing a star of Smith’s caliber signaled a serious commitment to the emerging DCEU. But what drew Smith, an actor known for his charisma and box-office draw, to the morally ambiguous world of Task Force X? The answer lies, in part, in the character of Deadshot himself. Unlike clear-cut heroes, Deadshot is a complex figure, a trained killer operating under his own twisted code of honor. He’s a father, a professional, and a cold-blooded assassin – a trifecta that offered Smith a unique acting challenge.
Reports from the time suggested that Smith was actively looking for a role that would allow him to flex his dramatic muscles while still maintaining his signature screen presence. Deadshot provided that perfect balance. The promise of exploring the character’s motivations, his relationship with his daughter, and his inner conflict resonated with Smith’s desire to push beyond purely heroic roles. This wasn’t just about saving the world; it was about exploring the darkness within, even within a world of over-the-top villains. Further enticing Smith, *Suicide Squad* promised a darker, edgier take on the superhero formula, something that aligned with his desire to break new ground.
Deadshot on Screen: Performance and Critical Reaction
To embody Deadshot, Will Smith immersed himself in the world of the character. He underwent rigorous firearms training, honing his skills with a variety of weapons to convincingly portray the world’s greatest marksman. Physical conditioning was also a key component, as Smith needed to be believable in the action-heavy sequences. Beyond the physical aspects, Smith delved into the character’s comic book history, studying Deadshot’s motivations, his vulnerabilities, and his iconic design. This preparation extended to the emotional core of the character, focusing on the love for his daughter and the internal struggles that drove his actions.
Smith’s commitment to the role extended to his interactions with the cast and crew. He collaborated closely with director David Ayer to develop his portrayal of Deadshot, ensuring that he captured the essence of the character while also adding his own unique flair. This level of dedication contributed to the initial excitement surrounding *Suicide Squad*, promising a compelling and nuanced performance from Smith.
The Divisive Reception: A Cloud Over the Squad
When *Suicide Squad* finally hit theaters, Will Smith’s Deadshot was a prominent focus. Smith brought his signature charisma to the role, injecting humor and humanity into a character who could easily have been a one-dimensional villain. He effortlessly portrayed Deadshot’s lethal skills, but also his vulnerability, particularly in scenes with his on-screen daughter. Many critics acknowledged Smith’s performance as a highlight, praising his ability to balance the character’s conflicting traits. Some lauded his charisma, with a review mentioning “Will Smith is effortlessly cool and provides the film with much-needed charm,” while others celebrated his depth, stating, “Smith delivers a layered performance, showcasing the man beneath the mask.”
However, even amidst the praise, some criticism emerged. Some felt that the film didn’t fully explore Deadshot’s complexity or that his character arc was somewhat underdeveloped in service of the larger ensemble. Other critics felt that Smith’s star power overshadowed the character, making it feel more like a Will Smith performance than a true embodiment of Deadshot. However, overall, Smith’s performance was generally seen as a positive aspect of the film.
Smith’s Reflections: Looking Back at Suicide Squad
Beyond individual performances, *Suicide Squad* itself became a lightning rod for controversy. The film received overwhelmingly negative reviews, with critics citing issues with the plot, editing, tone, and character development. The backlash was so intense that it became a major talking point, overshadowing the film’s impressive box office success. The criticism often centered on a perceived lack of cohesion and a muddled narrative that failed to fully utilize its impressive cast of characters.
The impact of these negative reviews was undeniable. Despite earning a considerable amount of money at the box office, *Suicide Squad* became synonymous with cinematic disappointment for many. The film’s reputation suffered, and it became a cautionary tale about the challenges of adapting complex comic book properties. This negative atmosphere inevitably cast a shadow over the individual performances, including that of Will Smith.
The Suicide Squad Legacy: A Complex Chapter
In the years following *Suicide Squad*’s release, Will Smith has spoken candidly about his experience with the film. While he acknowledged the film’s flaws, he also expressed pride in his performance and defended the movie against its harshest critics. In interviews, Smith has alluded to the challenges of working on a large-scale project with multiple creative voices and the inevitable compromises that come with such endeavors. There were reports that he was disappointed in the final product, echoing similar sentiments from other cast members.
One notable absence was Smith’s lack of involvement in James Gunn’s *The Suicide Squad*. Initially, scheduling conflicts were cited as the primary reason for his absence. While plausible, the timing of his departure coincided with the film’s increasingly negative reputation and the desire of Warner Bros. to reboot the franchise with a fresh creative vision. Instead of Smith, Idris Elba played Bloodsport, in what many perceived as a similar role to Deadshot. This decision further fueled speculation about the behind-the-scenes dynamics and Smith’s evolving perspective on the *Suicide Squad* experience.
*Suicide Squad*’s place in the broader DC Extended Universe remains a topic of debate. While it introduced several popular characters and contributed to the franchise’s overall box office revenue, its negative reception has made it a somewhat awkward chapter in the DCEU timeline. The film’s impact on subsequent DC movies is debatable, but it undoubtedly served as a learning experience for Warner Bros. in terms of managing creative visions and fan expectations.
For Will Smith, *Suicide Squad* represents a fascinating point in his career. It was a chance to step outside his comfort zone, embrace a morally complex character, and contribute to a major superhero franchise. While the film’s reception was not what anyone hoped for, Smith’s performance as Deadshot remains a memorable and often praised aspect of the film. It showed his willingness to take risks and explore different facets of his acting abilities, even within the confines of a large-scale blockbuster.
Ultimately, *Will Smith Suicide Squad* presents a complicated legacy. It’s a story of initial excitement, creative ambition, and the challenges of navigating the complexities of the superhero genre. While *Suicide Squad* may not be remembered as a critical masterpiece, it remains a significant entry in both Will Smith’s filmography and the history of the DCEU. The question that lingers is: will Deadshot ever return, and if so, will Will Smith be the one behind the mask?
