Hello my fellow movie goers from around the globe. It’s finally Halloween Month. Meaning, I’ll be selecting horror related movies, then post a review if it’s good or bad. This time I’ve decided to pick the eighth installment of the “DC Animated Movie Universe” (not connected to Bruce Timm’s Batman) focusing on Batman teaming up with supernatural heroes as they track down who’s wrecking global havoc. The premise I’m referring to is none other than “Justice League Dark.”
“Justice League Dark” came out in 2017 around the same time as “Wonder Woman” and the botched theatrical release of “Justice League:” It earned positive reviews from critics and fans alike.
A two-parter animated movie titled, “Batman: The Long Halloween” is streaming on HBO Max. A live action adaptation series of Justice League Dark is in development with J.J. Abrams producing the first season. I have a gut feeling it might be a downer. Remember J.J. butchered “The Rise Of Skywalker?” From now on his initials means Jar Jar. One more thing, Robert Pattinson’s upcoming Batman will be released in 2022. Like the comics, Justice League Dark is part of the horror genre. That’s right, I’ve chosen their animated movie as part of Halloween Month.
This review contains no SPOILERS whatsoever. Feel free to check out my non-spoiler article. Keep in mind, Justice League Dark isn’t a two and a half hour live action epic. Just a 70 minute animated film. So bear with me.
Light & Dark Aspects
Light: Jason O’Mara, Jerry O’Connell & Rosario Dawson reprise their roles and they all did a great job for their respective voiceover performances.
Matt Ryan provides the voice of John Constantine and he did a fantastic job for his voiceover performance.
Alfred Molina provides the voice of Destiny yet he did a decent job for his voiceover performance.
Animation is presented in traditional hand drawn format bringing character models, fluid combat and environmental locations to life.
Action Sequences showcases Batman and the team kicking supernatural behind using their powers and abilities.
Like previous installments of the DC Animated Movie Universe, the series is based on DC’s full fledge reboot known as “The New 52.“ Most of the rebooted comics are a hit and miss.
Chemistry between Batman and the team serves as the main highlight. Their interactions move the story forward.
Batman bands a group of supernatural heroes Constantine, Zatanna, Jason Blood, Etrigan, Boston Brand/Deadman & Alec Holland/Swamp Thing to stop an evil force from wrecking havoc around the globe.
Batman doesn’t overshadow the titular team, each member has an epic moment. Thank goodness every single one isn’t left out.
If you’re scratching your head why Superman or Wonder Woman are not helping Batman is because they’re weak to magic. Only The Caped Crusader without possessing powers. has the brains and brawn to overcome demons. He has experience leading two teams, the Justice League and his own accompanied with his sidekicks/allies Robin, Nightwing & Batgirl.
Opening Scene contains Nightmare Fuel. What you’re about to see, indicates this is gonna be one heck of an adventure much scarier than Scarecrow’s fear gas.
Somebody literally getting dragged to hell by shadowy figures is a reference to “Ghost.”
Dark: Without giving anything away, most of the Justice League members like Aquaman, Hawkman, Martian Manhunter & Shazam never show up during an important battle. What are they doing performing at a karaoke bar while the world is in peril?
The Final Verdict: A-
From my point of view, Justice League Dark is an entertaining animated movie as a gateway introduction for newcomers who are not familiar with Justice League Dark. If you’re prepping up for their upcoming series on HBO Max, I highly recommend it. Don’t forget to read some comics if you wanna know more context about each team member. I’m concerned about the upcoming show now that J.J. Abrams and his production company Bad Robot are mapping out a season on what direction the team are face a supernatural obstacle. I lost my respect to J.J. after he ruined The Rise Of Skywalker.
Nickthemoviecritic.com 