Countdown to Suicide Squad: 7 books to read before the movie

We're a week away from the movie premiere of Suicide Squad and most of the fans are probably excited for this blockbuster movie. There are reports claiming that Suicide Squad is making more social media buzz than Star Wars: Rouge One, Star Trek Beyond, and Ghostbusters.

While most are eager to watch the film, there may be a couple of fans who would want to read on Suicide Squad comics before watching the movie. If you're one of those fans, then we've got a treat for you! The boys of The Dark Knight Philippines have come up with a list of essential Suicide Squad books to read on.

7. Batman and the Outsider (vol.1) #1-2

Batman and the Outsider is a crucial title to the formation of the current Suicide Squad team. When Batman left the Justice League, he formed a team of efficient heroes and called them The Outsiders. One of Batman's recruits was Katana. She wasn't considered a team player at first but the creative team of Mike Barr and Jim Aparo was able to give her character maternal dynamics. Because of it, she easily became one of the most interesting characters in the team. Batman and the Outsiders might not have direct connections to Suicide Squad, but it is a good introduction to Katana's origin.

6. Checkmate (vol.2): Rogue Squad

We're assuming that Amanda Waller will play a huge role in the film. With that said, Rogue Squad delves into Waller's inconspicuous dealings. Greg Rucka's Amanda Waller is the manipulative b***h that we're expecting to see in the movie. You thought Lex Luthor Jr. easily manipulated Batman? Read up and see the evil that Amanda Waller is!

5. Suicide Squad: Kicked in the Teeth (new 52)

Suicide Squad was one of the interesting titles when DC launched their New 52 reboot. It had sex, violence, and drugs (i think haha). But yes, it came with a lot of no holds barred violence which will surely entice the moodswings of teenage angst. Although insanely violent, this series serves as a good foundation for the movie. With Harley Quinn, Deadshot, El Diablo running the team, this book is a sure fire and an interesting read.

4. Suicide Squad: Nightshade Odyssey

Nightshade Odyssey put the Squad under the radar of the Justice League. Although there were ups and downs in this book, the highlight of the novel revolves around Batman taking on Amanda Waller to bring down Task Force X (known now as the Suicide Squad). This should be a good read since we're expecting Batman to appear in the movie.

3. Batman: Mad Love

Mad Love is another book that is not directly related to Suicide Squad. However, it tries to explain the relationship of Harley Quinn and The Joker. This book is one of the classics. So even though its not directly related to the movie, it is still a good read.

2. Suicide Squad (vol.1) #37-39

If we're talking about Suicide Squad, Coils of LOA is one of those essential reads. The Squad is sent on a mission to assassinate a group that plans to create an army of zombies. We're not sure if there are any reports about it, but we're pretty sure that David Ayer will get some concept from Coils of LOA.

1. Suicide Squad: Trial by Fire

Trial by Fire is up there together with the likes of Batman: Year One and The Dark Knight Returns. If it is not THE best Suicide Squad story out there, it is probably the most recommended Suicide Squad story to movie fans. The John Ostrander and Luke McDonnell tandem did a great job. "The mix of high action and intense drama" is sure to satisfy your SKWAD craving! Check it out and be amazed!


There you have it! Seven of the most interesting books that will give you a better appreciation of the movie. See you all at THE Suicide Squad fan screening event presented by... Yours truly. The premier Batman group in the Philippines!