Best Cult Film in over 30 years.

Rating: 10/10 (7 August 2016)

I mean that in the best possible way. For me, culture altering "Cult Films" are the most difficult to write and make. When they work, they last forever in a way no other genre can. Why do I say this? Because, using humor, philosophy and politics, they engrave archetypes into the collective consciousness, as I said, in a way that no other form can. Let's start here: Suicide Squad's incredibly strong Black and Female characters smashed the molds for what we usually see in film. Not that there haven't been others who have done awesome work, but the characters and performances in Suicide Squad have widened the parameters and opened doors that will never again be closed. Margot Robbie, in my opinion gave the first screen performance by a female that defied gender. That doesn't mean that Charlize Theron or Sigourney Weaver and other notable bad ass women haven't done amazing work, what it means is, the combination of the role given to Ms. Robbie, and her ability to take it to the absolute limit and beyond, have resulted in a total game changer. Ladies, the floor is now open, no more holds barred. Thank you to the writers, directors and producers who had the vision to allow Ms. Robbie, to take the role and run with it. Will Smith? Really? I mean, I do love him, but now I have so much more respect. That was one hell of a role to make work even without being true to source material. He grounded the film in so many ways. Viola Davis? What a surprise secret weapon she is in this film. Fresh and brilliant... once again a brand new avenue for female actors. Jared Leto? I know you all have your favorite Joker, but I'm sorry, his take was villain hall of fame level for detail and originality. Look, I could go on and on about each character, but this was an ensemble that fed off each other brilliantly. And here's the other thing about Cult Films for me... The rendering: from cinematography, to CGI, to make up, to wardrobe, to music (the music was flawless) to direction... must be very serious and of a high quality. That's the irony that makes it work; the contrast between the "off the cake" story and the very real production details. And let me tell you, the producers of Suicide Squad went all the way in every department. This movie is not for critics, it's for real people who love good film making, film making with joy and heart and imagination. Thanks guys. I can't wait for the next film!