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.

Justice League Dark (2017)

Justice League Dark (2017)

Dir. Jay Oliva

I wonder how many names were in the hat when the creative team were struggling to come up with a catchy moniker for their new magic-themed 'League' collective. Given what they settled on, the others mustn't have been much good at all. But despite the name, the team itself is an interesting bunch of individuals.

Their genesis in animated form occurs when a spate of supernatural happenings perturbs the regular Justice League. Batman is chosen to enlist the help of folks who understand the workings of magic, in the hope that they'll be able to get to the bottom of the mystery.

It's an original story, not adapted wholesale from any of the existing comic book adventures, so deserves credit for that, if nothing else.