In the aftermath of their confrontation with Circe, the Creature Commandos find themselves back at Belle Reve, grappling with the enigmatic sorceress's motivations and the potential consequences of her actions. Episode 4, aptly titled "Chasing Squirrels," delves into the tragic past of Weasel and the chilling vision of a future that could be, if Circe's warnings are to be heeded.
The episode begins with a lighter tone, contrasting the darker revelations that follow. Weasel, played by Sean Gunn, takes center stage as his backstory is unveiled, proving to be more heart-wrenching than anticipated. His lawyer, Elizabeth "Betty" Bates, voiced by Linda Cardellini, has long believed in his innocence, a theory that this episode seeks to validate through a series of flashbacks.
Weasel's past is revealed to be one of innocence and friendship, not the monstrous acts he's been accused of. He formed a bond with a group of schoolchildren who accepted him, a stark contrast to the prejudice and fear he's faced since. However, a tragic misunderstanding leads to a devastating sequence of events. An old man, mistaking Weasel's intentions, attempts to protect the children with a shotgun, leading to an explosion that claims the lives of most of the children and himself. Weasel's attempt to save one surviving girl ends in tragedy as the police arrive, misjudging the situation and causing the girl's death. Weasel's wrongful arrest and the injustice he suffers add a layer of depth to his character, humanizing him in the eyes of the audience.
Meanwhile, Circe's interrogation by Amanda Waller, John Economos, and Rick Flag Sr. takes a dark turn. She claims to have a vision of a future where Princess Ilana Rostovic becomes a tyrant, leading to the deaths of numerous heroes and the destruction of the world. Waller, shaken by the vision, seeks confirmation from Dr. Aisla MacPherson, an expert on Themyscira. This leads to Task Force M being deployed to Pokolistan with a dire mission: to kill Princess Ilana.
The vision Circe presents is a stark warning, painting a picture of a future where heroes like Wonder Woman, Batman, Superman, and others lie dead, victims of Ilana's rampage. This sequence not only provides a chilling look into a potential DC Universe but also raises questions about the nature of power and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
As the team prepares for their new mission, dynamics within the group shift. The Bride and Nina form a closer bond, with the Bride standing up for Nina in a cafeteria confrontation. This small act of defiance not only showcases the Bride's growing sympathy but also empowers Nina, highlighting the strength in their unity.
Frankenstein's misguided belief that Flag and the Bride are involved leads to a confrontation, adding a layer of dark comedy to the episode. However, the conversation that follows between Flag and Frankenstein feels like a therapy session, with Frankenstein's love for the Bride mirroring Ilana's feelings for Flag.
"Chasing Squirrels" is an episode that masterfully balances character development with high-stakes drama. Weasel's tragic past humanizes him, while Circe's vision of the future poses a moral dilemma for the team. The episode leaves viewers with a sense of urgency, as the fate of the world hangs in the balance, and the Creature Commandos must decide how to proceed in the face of such grave revelations.