When it comes to superhero teams, the Justice League (JL) stands as one of the most iconic ensembles in comic book history. Over the years, the Justice League has transitioned from page to screen, bringing DC’s most powerful heroes together in epic stories. But with multiple Justice League movies to choose from, fans often wonder: which one is the best?
Let’s break it down by looking at the major contenders, their strengths, weaknesses, and overall impact.
Justice League (2017): The Theatrical Cut
Directed by Joss Whedon after Zack Snyder stepped down due to personal reasons, the 2017 Justice League movie brought Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash, and Cyborg together for the first time on the big screen.
What Worked
- The lighter tone and humor appealed to those who found earlier DCEU movies too dark.
- Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman and Ezra Miller’s Flash stood out with strong performances.
- Seeing the team unite was a treat for DC fans, regardless of the film’s flaws.
What Didn’t Work
- The plot felt rushed, clocking in at under two hours.
- Steppenwolf, the main villain, was underwhelming and lacked depth.
- The heavy use of CGI, especially in certain scenes (like Superman’s infamous digitally removed mustache), took viewers out of the experience.
Verdict
The 2017 Justice League had its moments but ultimately fell short of expectations, leaving fans yearning for a more cohesive and impactful story.
Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021): The Snyder Cut
After years of fan campaigns and #ReleaseTheSnyderCut trending online, Zack Snyder’s original vision for Justice League was finally released on HBO Max in 2021. At four hours long, this version expanded significantly on the theatrical cut.
What Worked
- A deeper and more fleshed-out story, particularly for Cyborg and The Flash.
- Darkseid’s inclusion added weight and stakes to the overarching narrative.
- The tone was consistent with Snyder’s earlier DCEU films, offering a more epic and serious take on the JL story.
- Improved CGI and the iconic black suit for Superman elevated the visual experience.
What Didn’t Work
- At four hours, the runtime might be daunting for casual viewers.
- Some scenes, while visually stunning, felt indulgent or unnecessary.
- The darker tone might not appeal to everyone, especially those who enjoyed the lighter 2017 version.
Verdict
Snyder’s Justice League is a triumph for fans of Zack Snyder and the DCEU, delivering a more complete and satisfying story. It’s considered by many to be the definitive version of the film.
Justice League: Doom (2012): The Animated Gem
For fans of animated movies, Justice League: Doom remains a standout entry in DC’s animated universe. Based on the Tower of Babel storyline, the film explores Batman’s contingency plans to defeat each Justice League member falling into the wrong hands.
What Worked
- The story is clever and thought-provoking, diving into themes of trust and betrayal.
- Stellar voice acting, including Kevin Conroy as Batman and Tim Daly as Superman.
- Tight pacing and action-packed sequences keep viewers engaged.
What Didn’t Work
- The animation style, while solid, doesn’t push boundaries.
- Villains could have used more development compared to the heroes.
Verdict
A must-watch for fans of the Justice League, Justice League: Doom showcases the group’s dynamics and individual vulnerabilities in a compelling way.
Other Notable Mentions
- Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox (2013): While not a traditional JL movie, this animated film focuses on The Flash and the alternate reality he creates. It’s widely regarded as one of the best DC animated movies ever made.
- Justice League: War (2014): An adaptation of the New 52 reboot, this animated movie captures the team’s origins but lacks the depth of other JL films.
And the Winner Is…
The best Justice League movie depends on what you’re looking for:
- If you want an epic, live-action team-up with depth and stunning visuals, Zack Snyder’s Justice League is the clear choice.
- For a tightly written and thought-provoking animated story, Justice League: Doom is hard to beat.
- If you prefer a fun and fast-paced animated adventure, The Flashpoint Paradox offers something unique.
Ultimately, the best JL movie is subjective. Whether you’re a fan of Snyder’s gritty realism, the charm of DC’s animated universe, or the spectacle of live-action blockbusters, the Justice League’s legacy shines across all formats.
What’s your favorite Justice League movie? Let us know in the comments below!