James Gunn Explains Vigilante’s Shocking Killing in Peacemaker Season 2

In a recent podcast, James Gunn discussed a pivotal moment from Peacemaker Season 2, Episode 7, where the character Vigilante kills an alternate-universe version of Auggie Smith. This shocking death not only alters the trajectory of Chris Smith’s story but also highlights the complex themes of violence and morality within the series.

Vigilante’s Brutal Act and Its Significance

During the podcast titled Peacemaker: The Official Podcast, Gunn detailed the circumstances surrounding Vigilante’s violent act. In a dramatic confrontation, Adrian Chase, known as Vigilante, stabs Auggie Smith as the latter attempts to protect his son, Chris. This moment is marked by a deliberate editing choice that amplifies Chris’s realization of the impending violence. Gunn noted that when Vigilante strikes, it is both sudden and devastating: “[Vigilante] stabs Auggie Smith to death,” he explained.

In this season, Auggie, portrayed by Robert Patrick, is depicted as the Blue Dragon, a stark contrast to his original character from Season 1. While the previous version was a villain, this alternate Auggie is characterized as a compassionate father who acknowledges his son’s flaws but continues to express love and support. Gunn emphasized Auggie’s viewpoint, stating, “I fight the madmen, murderers, and monsters in front of me because that’s all I can control.”

The Aftermath and Emotional Impact

The decision to kill Auggie serves as a narrative device that underscores the show’s complex portrayal of morality. Vigilante justifies his actions by claiming that Auggie had tied up another character, Economos. Gunn designed the scene to evoke a visceral reaction, aiming for a moment that feels both harsh and impactful. Co-stars Danielle Brooks and Steve Agee remarked on the intensity of the scene, describing the stabbing as “so harshly” executed that it left both characters and viewers in shock.

John Cena’s performance in the aftermath is particularly noteworthy. Gunn highlighted Cena’s emotional response, which reflects Chris reliving the trauma of losing his brother. In a poignant moment, Chris pushes everyone away and declares, “It’s not my world that’s wrong…It’s me.” This line captures the essence of Chris’s internal struggle with guilt and the notion that he brings pain to every reality he inhabits.

Gunn concluded that Auggie’s death represents a significant turning point for Chris. It serves as a tragic reminder of the cycle of violence that permeates the narrative of Peacemaker. This moment encapsulates the show’s exploration of the consequences of one’s actions, reinforcing the idea that nothing in this universe is straightforward.

This analysis was originally reported by Anubhav Chaudhry on SuperHeroHype, shedding light on the depth of storytelling within the Peacemaker series and its characters.