Justice League Movie Review

After years of anticipation, the Justice League movie finally hit theaters in 2017. Directed by Zack Snyder and featuring a star-studded cast including Ben Affleck, Gal Gadot, and Jason Momoa, the film was intended to be the culmination of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), a shared universe of superhero films that began with Man of Steel in 2013. However, the film faced numerous production issues and ultimately received a mixed reception from critics and audiences alike.

The plot of Justice League revolves around the formation of the titular team of superheroes, consisting of Batman (Affleck), Wonder Woman (Gadot), The Flash (Ezra Miller), Aquaman (Momoa), and Cyborg (Ray Fisher). The team must come together to stop the alien villain Steppenwolf (Ciarán Hinds) from collecting three powerful Mother Boxes that, when combined, can destroy the world.

One of the biggest criticisms of Justice League is its uneven tone. The film attempts to balance its darker, more serious moments with lighthearted humor, but the result is often jarring and tonally inconsistent. The film's production issues, which included a change in director and extensive reshoots, are likely responsible for this unevenness.

Another major issue with Justice League is its villain. Steppenwolf is a one-dimensional, CGI-heavy character who lacks the depth and nuance of a compelling antagonist. Additionally, the film's final act, which features a battle against a horde of mindless, faceless monsters, lacks the emotional weight and stakes of a more personal conflict.

Despite these flaws, Justice League does have some redeeming qualities. The chemistry between the members of the titular team is a highlight, particularly the banter between Miller's Flash and Momoa's Aquaman. The film also features some impressive action sequences, including a thrilling battle between the Justice League and Steppenwolf's army.

Another standout element of Justice League is its portrayal of Superman (Henry Cavill). After his death in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, the character is resurrected in Justice League and given a more hopeful and optimistic outlook. Cavill's performance is a bright spot in the film, and his scenes with Gadot's Wonder Woman are particularly effective.

One of the most notable aspects of Justice League is its troubled production history. Zack Snyder, who had directed both Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, was initially set to direct Justice League. However, Snyder had to step down from the project due to a personal tragedy, and Joss Whedon was brought in to oversee reshoots and post-production. The resulting film bears the marks of both directors' styles, with some scenes feeling tonally inconsistent or awkwardly stitched together.

Another issue with Justice League is its treatment of certain characters, particularly Fisher's Cyborg. The character is given a significant amount of screen time and backstory, but the film ultimately fails to give him a satisfying arc or resolution. This is particularly disappointing given the character's importance in the DC comics and his potential as a breakout star.

Despite its flaws, Justice League remains an entertaining and action-packed superhero adventure. It may not live up to the lofty expectations set by years of hype and anticipation, but it still manages to deliver some enjoyable moments and impressive set pieces. And with the upcoming release of Zack Snyder's Justice League, a retooled version of the film that more closely reflects Snyder's original vision, fans may yet get the Justice League movie they've been hoping for.

Overall, Justice League is a flawed but enjoyable superhero romp that will likely please fans of the genre. While it may not reach the heights of other superhero team-up films like The Avengers, it does offer some exciting action and memorable character moments. However, it's hard not to wonder what the film could have been if it hadn't been plagued by production issues and a lackluster villain.