The People v. Gorilla Grodd: Skyler Gisondo Reveals Tone and Practical Effects

DC fans are in for a wild ride as The People v. Gorilla Grodd prepares to bring a completely different energy to the DC Universe. Starring Skyler Gisondo as Jimmy Olsen, the upcoming series promises to pivot away from the high-octane spectacle of the 2025 Superman film in favor of a grounded, satirical approach.

The Tone of The People v. Gorilla Grodd

For those familiar with the sharp, cynical humor of American Vandal, the series will feel right at home. Showrunners Dan Perrault and Tony Yacenda are bringing their signature mockumentary style to the world of DC Comics. According to Gisondo, fans can expect that same vein of comedy, but with the stakes—and the absurdity—cranked up to eleven.

Why the shift?

• True-Crime Satire: Unlike the standard hero-vs-villain slugfest, this series operates as a true-crime documentary set within the city of Metropolis.
• Character-Driven Humor: The comedy stems from the mundane realities of living in a world populated by metahumans and talking primates.
• Distinct Identity: It intentionally distances itself from the CGI-heavy blockbuster aesthetic of the main DCU film slate.

Practical Effects Over CGI

One of the most intriguing aspects of The People v. Gorilla Grodd is its commitment to practical effects. Rather than relying on digital animation to bring the iconic gorilla to life, the production team has utilized sophisticated puppetry and suits, allowing actors to interact with a physical presence on set.

The puppet is so—you look into his eyes, and you immediately care about him, and you feel like you’re talking to somebody. And it’s been really fun. – Skyler Gisondo

Gisondo noted that he initially expected the experience to be akin to ‘tennis-ball acting’—where actors stare at blank markers for post-production effects. Instead, the physical presence of the puppet allowed for genuine, spontaneous performances that grounded the scenes in a surprising layer of emotional reality.

What This Means for the DC Universe

This experimental approach signals a shift in strategy for DC Studios. By producing shorter, genre-bending projects like an eight-episode mockumentary, the studio is testing the waters for how to expand its lore beyond traditional superhero blockbusters. For viewers, this means a more diverse content library that values creative vision over consistent visual templates.

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