Justice League Dark: Apokolips War (2020)

Justice League Dark: Apokolips War (2020)

Dirs. Matt Peters + Christina Sotta

Apokolips War marks the end of the DC movie continuity that began with The Flashpoint Paradox (2013). I didn't like the New 52 very much, so have no problems if its influence on the animated universe comes to an end - if indeed that's what actually happens. At time of writing, it remains to be seen if that's the case.

The story begins with a quote written large onscreen, a slight paraphrasing of a famous prayer that was penned by the theologian Reinhold Niebuhr. While initially untitled, in modern times it's become known as the Serenity Prayer. If you're not familiar with the title, it's the verse that encourages one to accept the things that they cannot change; have the courage to change the things that they can; and the wisdom to know the difference.

A conversation between Constantine (Matt Ryan) and Zatanna (Camilla Luddington) onboard Justice League HQ introduces a second theme that becomes ever more relevant to many of the featured players as things get more dangerous, and is something that most viewers will be able to relate to, in one form or another.

There's a feeling of foreboding as the League's primary members explain how Darkseid (Tony Todd) is a threat to Earth. A pre-emptive strike is planned, and even though the consensus is that it makes sense tactically, Superman (Jerry O'Connell) takes it a little more personal.

At this stage, it'll help your understanding of the story if you've seen most of the other entries in the DC Animated Movie Universe, not just the previous Justice League Dark (2017) one. At the very least it would be advisable to have watched the aforementioned Flashpoint Paradox, and the Justice League vs. Teen Titans (2016) crossover - both of which are really good.

It's a shame that the Deadman character was excluded this time, though. His personality was a little annoying previously, but he brought a unique skill to the table.

The remainder of the movie depicts what happens after the strike takes place, with at least one flashback to the chaos that happened during it. There's a lot of League members and a lot of death, and a number of references to past events from previous movies, which in addition to being a fun extra for fans is a way to expand the story beyond its limited running time.

Along the way there's a number of reversals; some are clever and some are stupid, but most at least have some kind of well-meaning emotional slant and the best of intentions. The ending will be utterly predictable to anyone with any experience of how the superhero industry works, but the sacrifices made in service to it might make it seem like less of a cop-out.

Alan Moore is named in the credits as co-creator of Constantine. I wonder does he know.

If the comics example is followed, the next big continuity shift will be inspired by the Rebirth event, which would be a good opportunity to recast some voice actors. Fingers crossed...

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