When diving into the timeline of the DC Extended Universe films, particularly focusing on Birds of Prey, one cannot help but wonder about the chronological placement of the events portrayed in the movie. Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) is indeed set after the occurrences in Suicide Squad, a fact that is crucial in understanding the narrative progression in the DCEU.
In Suicide Squad, we are introduced to Harley Quinn, portrayed brilliantly by Margot Robbie, and her tumultuous relationship with the Joker. The aftermath of their breakup serves as a pivotal point that sets the stage for the storyline of Birds of Prey. It is estimated that Birds of Prey takes place approximately four years after the events that unfolded in Suicide Squad.
The decision to have Birds of Prey set after Suicide Squad was a strategic one in terms of character development and plot evolution. By placing Birds of Prey in a post-Suicide Squad timeline, the writers and filmmakers were able to explore the aftermath of Harley Quinn’s breakup with the Joker and delve deeper into her journey towards independence and self-discovery.
Furthermore, the timeline alignment between Suicide Squad and Birds of Prey allowed for a seamless transition in Harley Quinn’s character arc. The emotional ramifications of her breakup with the Joker are keenly felt throughout Birds of Prey, shaping her interactions with the other characters and influencing her decisions as she forges her path forward.
It is worth noting that the temporal connection between Suicide Squad and Birds of Prey serves to enhance the overall cohesiveness of the DCEU. By maintaining a consistent timeline and narrative flow across multiple films, DC Comics fans are provided with a more immersive and interconnected viewing experience, enriching their understanding and enjoyment of the cinematic universe.
From a storytelling perspective, setting Birds of Prey after Suicide Squad allowed for a more focused exploration of Harley Quinn’s character growth and agency. The events of Suicide Squad laid the foundation for Harley’s tumultuous journey, while Birds of Prey served as a platform for her emancipation and empowerment, showcasing her resilience and strength as an individual.
Moreover, the decision to position Birds of Prey in a post-Suicide Squad timeframe provided the filmmakers with a narrative opportunity to showcase the evolution of Harley Quinn’s relationships with other characters in the DCEU. Her interactions with the members of the Birds of Prey team, such as Huntress and Black Canary, are influenced by her past experiences and contribute to her personal development.
In conclusion, the placement of Birds of Prey after Suicide Squad offers a nuanced exploration of Harley Quinn’s character journey within the DCEU. By leveraging the temporal continuity between the two films, the creators were able to craft a seamless narrative that highlights Harley’s resilience, personal growth, and ability to forge her own path in a post-Joker world.
