The Suicide Squad (2021) Ending Explained
TL;DR:
The ending of The Suicide Squad (2021) sees Task Force X successfully destroying Starro the Conqueror, a giant alien starfish that had taken over Corto Maltese. Bloodsport, Harley Quinn, Ratcatcher 2, King Shark, and Peacemaker (before his betrayal) work together to defeat Starro, though many of their teammates perish in the process. The survivors are extracted, with Bloodsport negotiating Harley's freedom and Amanda Waller's control over the team being temporarily disrupted. The film ends on a hopeful note, with Ratcatcher 2 and King Shark forming a bond, Harley escaping to a new life, and Peacemaker surviving his injuries-setting up his spin-off series.
Detailed Ending Explanation
The climax of The Suicide Squad revolves around the team's battle against Starro, a colossal extraterrestrial creature that had been imprisoned and experimented on by the U.S. government before being unleashed on Corto Maltese. After discovering Starro's origins and realizing Waller's true intentions (to cover up America's involvement in its creation), the remaining members of Task Force X - Bloodsport, Harley Quinn, Ratcatcher 2, and King Shark-decide to destroy it, despite Waller ordering them to abort the mission. The final fight is chaotic and emotional, with Starro crushing soldiers and civilians alike while spreading its smaller starfish to control more victims. Ratcatcher 2 uses her ability to summon an army of rats to chew through Starro's weak points, while Bloodsport and Harley deliver the final blows. Starro's dying words ("I was happy, floating, staring at the stars") add a tragic layer to its character, making it one of the most sympathetic villains in the DCEU.
Character Arcs and Resolutions
Each surviving member of the team gets a meaningful resolution. Bloodsport, who began the film as a reluctant leader afraid of failing his daughter, steps up to save Corto Maltese and even stands up to Waller, demanding Harley's freedom. Harley Quinn, after her symbolic "rebirth" following her escape from captivity, finally breaks free from Waller's control and sails off into the sunset, implying she's done being manipulated by others. Ratcatcher 2, the heart of the team, proves her worth by using her rats to defeat Starro, honoring her father's legacy. King Shark, initially portrayed as a mindless beast, shows his capacity for friendship, especially with Ratcatcher 2. Peacemaker, who betrayed the team to keep Project Starro a secret, is left for dead-but a post-credits scene reveals he survives, leading into his HBO Max series.
Amanda Waller's Downfall (Temporary)
One of the most satisfying moments is the team's rebellion against Amanda Waller. After her operatives in Corto Maltese are killed, her control over the situation slips. When Bloodsport and the others refuse her orders, her own staff (disgusted by her willingness to let thousands die) knock her out and help the Squad complete their mission. This moment is crucial because it shows Waller isn't invincible-her cruelty finally backfires. However, given her power, it's likely she regains control afterward (as seen in Peacemaker). Still, this temporary defeat is a win for the Squad, proving they're more than just disposable pawns.
Unresolved Questions & Possible Answers
- What happens to Harley Quinn next?
- She likely continues her solo adventures, possibly crossing paths with other DC antiheroes.
- Her freedom may be temporary if Waller decides to recapture her.
- Will Bloodsport return for future missions?
- Given his deal with Waller, he might be forced back into service.
- Alternatively, he could go rogue like Deadshot in the first Suicide Squad.
- How does Peacemaker's survival affect the team?
- His spin-off series explores his recovery and further morally ambiguous missions.
- He may face repercussions from Bloodsport or other Squad members if they meet again.
- What was Waller's long-term plan for Starro?
- She may have intended to weaponize it, mirroring U.S. Cold War experiments.
- Its destruction likely forced her to seek other alien threats.
Personal Opinion on the Ending
James Gunn's The Suicide Squad delivers a perfect mix of humor, heart, and chaos, and the ending is no exception. Starro's defeat is both epic and oddly tragic, making it more than just a CGI monster fight. The character resolutions feel earned-especially Ratcatcher 2's heroism and Harley's liberation. The temporary takedown of Waller is cathartic, though I wish it had lasting consequences. My only gripe is that some fan-favorite characters (like Polka-Dot Man) die too soon, but their sacrifices add weight to the story. Overall, it's one of the best DCEU films, blending over-the-top action with genuine emotional stakes. The ending leaves room for sequels or spin-offs while still feeling satisfying on its own.