Topic: Justice League of America: War

[Danae Cassandra]

Justice League: War
Year of Release: 2014
Directed By: Jay Oliva
Starring: Sean Astin, Zach Callison, Christopher Gorham, Justin Kirk , Michelle Monaghan, Shemar Moore, Jason O'Mara, Alan Tudyk
Genre: Action, Science-Fiction

Overview:
In Gotham City's shadows lurks a mysterious figure, a silent guardian known only as the Batman. While battling crime and an ever-growing public distrust, he faces the injustices of the night alone. During a criminal pursuit, the Batman crosses paths with the arrogant intergalactic cop Green Lantern, and the unlikely duo uncovers an impending threat bigger and more deadly than anything the Earth has faced before. For the Earth to have a chance to survive, it will be a race to forge an uneasy alliance of its greatest super powers, including the Kryptonian alien, Superman; the Amazonian envoy, Wonder Woman; and the Scarlet Speedster, the Flash. Along with newcomers Cyborg and teen super hero Shazam, this awesome assembly of the world's finest are prepared to meet evil head-on and offer mankind its only hope, if they don't self-destruct first!

My Thoughts:
This was an entertaining, fun watch. It's heavy on action, with a bit of characterization and a really weak plot. The animation is pretty good, however, and the film is very enjoyable. I liked seeing Wonder Woman be such a competent, kick-ass warrior, instead of the background or supporting character role that the token female member of a team usually occupies. For the comic reader, one has to remember this is the New 52 movie, so all of the characters are updated to match New 52 continuity. They're a bit darker - Billy Batson being a kid in foster care who acts out, for instance, or Superman not being a complete paragon of virtue. The basic core of the character is still there, though, just as it is in New 52. But if you don't like the new 52 books you won't like this film. For the non comic reader, these guys are a long way from Superfriends. There's a lot more violence, some strong language, and our heroes don't exactly get along in the beginning. Needless to say, not for the kiddies - tween and up. If none of this bothers you, and you're looking for some animated super hero action, you'll have a good time. I did.

Bechdel Test: Pass

Overall: 3/5