Release Date: November 17, 2017
Running Time: 1 hours and 59 minutes
Rated PG-13
Directed By: Zach Snyder
Screenplay By: Chris Terrio and Joss Whedon
Grade: B
“Superman was a beacon to the world. He is more human than I am. The World Needs Superman” ~ Batman
Justice League continues to the lay the groundwork for the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) after the studio soared to the top with Blockbuster Wonder Woman in June. Under the direction of the talented Zach Snyder (Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice), and Joss Whedon (Avengers and Avengers: Age of Ultron), who finished the film after the death of Snyder’s daughter, Justice League is fast-paced and entertaining, with dizzying special effects and a star-studded cast and crew.
Academy Award winner Ben Affleck (Good Will Hunting and Argo) leads the cast as Batman, the self-appointed leader of the Justice League. He is joined by Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman along with an amazing ensemble of newcomers, including Jason Momoa as Aquaman, Ezra Miller as the Flash and Ray Fisher as Cyborg. The supporting roles feature Academy Award winner Jeremy Irons (Alfred) along with Academy Award nominees Amy Adams (Lois Lane) and Diane Lane (Martha Kent).
The film picks up where Batman v Superman left us – mourning the loss of the Man of Steel. The world is in chaos and a new threat is amongst us. The supervillain Steppenwolf and his Parademons have descended upon the Amazons to steal a “mother box” from its secret hiding place on the Island of Themyscira. Queen Hippolyta lights a fire as a message to Diana that something terrible has happened.
Meanwhile, Bruce Wayne attempts to keep order in Gotham City under the guise of Batman, but is struggling without Superman. Once Diana arrives in his lair, the two join forces to form a team capable of defeating Steppenwolf. Many years ago, three mother boxes were entrusted to the Amazons, Atlantians and humans. Steppenwolf wants all of them to destroy life as we know it. The Justice League has an uphill battle and will need all the resources they can muster.
“You get technical. I am on bug duty”
The cinematography by Fabian Wagner (Game of Thrones and Victor Frankenstein) was beautifully shot. Principal photography took place in various locations around London, Scotland, Los Angeles and Iceland. The landscapes on the islands of Tehmyscira and Iceland were extraordinary. The camera work was first-rate and the action scenes and CGI were flawless. Oscar nominated costume designer Michael Wilkinson’s designs were exceptional. He is known for his brilliant costumes in American Hustle and Batman v Superman.
The one thing that I think would have made this film better would have been to release more origin stories prior to the league joining forces. Not being a huge comic book fan, I don’t know the stories behind Aquaman, Cyborg and Flash. This film provides a tiny glimpse into their history – just enough to make you want more.
Justice League is a thrilling ride with great acting and special effects. Next up in the DCEU is Aquaman in 2018 followed by Wonder Woman 2 in 2019. Comic book fans and general audiences will enjoy the film which opens just in time for the holidays. ~ A.S. MacLeod
Starring:
Ben Affleck as Bruce Wayne/Batman
Henry Cavill at Clark Kent/Superman
Gal Gadot as Diana Prince/Wonder Woman
Amy Adams as Lois La
Jeremy Irons as Alfred
Diane Lane as Martha Kent
Ezra Miller as Barry Allen/The Flash
Jason Momoa as Arthur Curry/Aquaman
Ray Fisher as Victor Sto
Follow FOLIO!