Suicide Squad: The Meaning Behind Diablo’s Tattoos
The 2016 film “Suicide Squad” introduced us to a group of supervillains forced to work together to save the world. One of the standout characters was Chato Santana, also known as Diablo, who had a unique set of tattoos covering his entire body. These tattoos hold a lot of meaning for the character and add depth to his backstory. Let’s take a closer look at what these tattoos represent.
1. The History of Diablo
Before we dive into the tattoos themselves, let’s briefly go over Diablo’s history. In the comics, Chato Santana was a gang member who gained pyrokinetic powers after being exposed to chemicals during a fight with a rival gang. He eventually joined the Suicide Squad and became a valuable member thanks to his powers.
In the “Suicide Squad” movie, Diablo’s backstory is slightly different. He is shown as a former gangster who accidentally killed his family due to his uncontrollable powers. This tragic event led him to seek solitude and give up using his powers.
2. The Tattoos
Diablo’s tattoos cover his entire body and are meant to resemble traditional Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos) artwork. Dia de los Muertos is a Mexican holiday where people remember and honor their ancestors who have passed away. It is believed that the spirits of the dead return to the living world during this time.
The tattoos on Diablo’s face are particularly notable. One of them is a skull with flames coming out of its eyes, which represents death and rebirth. Another tattoo on his forehead says “Azucar,” which means sugar in Spanish. This is a reference to legendary salsa singer Celia Cruz, who famously shouted “Azucar!” during her concerts as a way to ignite passion and energy in her audience.
Other tattoos on Diablo’s body include a depiction of the Virgin Mary, which represents his faith and redemption, as well as birds and flowers.
3. The Importance of the Tattoos to Diablo’s Character
The tattoos on Diablo’s body tell the story of his past and serve as a constant reminder of the pain and loss he has experienced. They also show his connection to his Mexican heritage and cultural beliefs.
Diablo’s transformation towards the end of the movie is also reflected in his tattoos. When he finally unleashes his full powers, his tattoos appear to come alive and glow. This symbolizes his rebirth and acceptance of who he is.
4. The Impact of Diablo’s Tattoos on Pop Culture
Diablo’s tattoos have become iconic in pop culture and have inspired many people to get similar Day of the Dead-inspired tattoos. The design has even been featured in various fashion lines and merchandise.
While some may argue that cultural appropriation has occurred with the usage of these tattoos in mainstream media, it is important to recognize the significance and symbolism behind these designs.
Conclusion
Overall, Diablo’s tattoos are more than just decorative body art. They hold a lot of meaning for the character and add depth to his backstory. As with any type of tattoo, it is important to understand the cultural significance behind the design before getting it permanently inked. The Dia de los Muertos artwork is a beautiful representation of honoring the dead, and Diablo’s tattoos serve as a powerful reminder of his past and present identity.
