Peacemaker season 2 premiere: A bold new start

WEB DESK: Three years after its hit first season, Peacemaker is back on HBO Max. Written and directed by DC Studios co-head James Gunn, the season 2 opener The Ties That Grind takes Chris Smith (John Cena) on a wild, emotional ride.

He now discovers a portal to another universe where life seems perfect.

This episode marks a big shift for the series. The DC Universe has rebooted, changing the Justice League into the Justice Gang in the show’s recap. But the focus stays on Peacemaker’s story, not just big DCU worldbuilding.

A FRESH OPENING SEQUENCE

Like season 1, the new season brings another flashy dance-filled intro, this time set to Oh Lord by Foxy Shazam. It hints at Chris’ romance with Emilia and his emotional struggles after the tragic events of last season.

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Chris lives alone with Eagly, using drugs and meaningless flings to escape his grief. He’s haunted by the deaths of his father and brother while failing to land a Justice Gang job. Things change when he finds a portal to a world where his family is alive and loved.

But the episode ends with a shock. Chris fights and accidentally kills his alternate self, setting up a gripping, emotional journey ahead.

OLD FACES, NEW STRUGGLES

The 11th Street Kids return, each facing personal battles. Leota separates from her wife. Emilia loses her government job and spirals into violence. Economos is forced to spy on Chris. Adrian stays hilarious as ever.

The group seems fractured but slowly comes back together. Chris’ romance with Emilia adds tension and humor, with John Cena and Jennifer Holland’s chemistry shining on screen.

VERDICT

After three years, Peacemaker still packs a punch. It mixes comedy, chaos, and heartbreak while exploring the Multiverse and flawed heroes. Gunn keeps the show loud, bloody, and fun, exactly what fans wanted.