3 Years Ago, the DCU Retold One of Marvel’s Biggest Stories (& Did It Better Than the MCU)

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The DC Universe, led by James Gunn, is making efforts to stand out distinctively compared to the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s approach. For instance, they are opting to place characters directly into ongoing action, thus skipping traditional origin stories. Moreover, unlike Marvel Studios, Gunn is not relying on post-credits scenes to hint at future content. So far, this strategy seems effective, as Superman has been dominating the box office, surpassing other major Marvel contenders and emerging as one of the most successful films of 2025. Yet, despite its separation from Marvel, DCU’s success can partially be attributed to them.

Initially, Gunn joined DC and didn’t hold complete authority yet. His initial assignment was to restore the reputation of Task Force X on the silver screen through The Suicide Squad. Although the film didn’t perform well financially, it received praise from critics, setting the stage for the spin-off series, Peacemaker. Notably, this James Cena-starred show presented something unique in comic book media, although it drew inspiration from Marvel when it came to its antagonists.

The Butterflies Secretly Invaded Earth in Peacemaker

Following the ordeals in Corto Maltese, Christopher Smith finds solace back home, aspiring for a fresh start. Yet, his tranquility is disrupted when A.R.G.U.S. intervenes, compelling him to participate in an operation codenamed “Project Butterfly.” The objective: investigate the mysterious extraterrestrial entities, known as Butterflies, appearing worldwide. With questionable tactics, Peacemaker uncovers a plot – influential minds globally are being manipulated by these aliens, aiming to seize control forcefully. Initially inclined to eliminate them all, it’s revealed that Clemon Murn, his superior, is under the influence of a benevolent Butterfly, seeking to prevent harm and working against rogue members of their kind. The compassionate Butterflies need assistance in their mission to restore balance.

In the thrilling season finale, Murn, unfortunately, doesn’t get to savor his victory as he falls beforehand. Yet, Peacemaker, alongside our valiant allies, successfully completes the mission. The esteemed Justice League arrives post-conflict, their late appearance prompting Peacemaker to chide them for being less than effective. The climax of this captivating tale carries a familiar ring, borrowed from Marvel Comics’ “Secret Invasion,” where the enigmatic Skrulls manipulate key characters in an attempt to seize power. Regrettably, DC managed to bring this storyline to life before Marvel Studios could, leaving the MCU’s rendition unrealized. In my role as a follower of these narratives, I found it amusing and intriguing, marking a fitting conclusion to a remarkable season.

The MCU’s Secret Invasion Is Too Serious for Its Own Good

In alien invasion narratives, there’s often an element of absurdity, and ‘Peacemaker’ capitalizes on this by amplifying the absurd situations encountered by its characters for comedic effect. On the other hand, ‘Secret Invasion’ opts for a more serious tone, aiming to provoke doubt among viewers about true identities. Unfortunately, the series fails to make bold moves, with the most significant twist being James Rhodes’ long-term Skrull identity, which casts suspicion on his actions post-‘Captain America: Civil War’. However, Rhodes appears sparingly in ‘Secret Invasion’ and has yet to reappear in the MCU, diminishing the impact of this revelation. The show’s most daring act is introducing the concept of the Harvest – a repository of DNA that allows G’iah to assume the powers of multiple key Marvel Cinematic Universe heroes as a Super Skrull. Yet again, G’iah seems insignificant in the franchise’s grand scheme.

On a contrasting note, Season 2 of Peacemaker will undoubtedly reference events from its predecessor. Despite this, it aims to integrate itself within the DC Universe. The methods might have been dissimilar, but both Marvel and DC endeavored to convey compelling alien invasion tales on television. Interestingly, the one with an early advantage fell short in delivering.

Peacemaker is streaming on HBO Max, while Secret Invasion is streaming on Disney+.

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2025-08-20 21:16