REVIEW: ‘Justice League Dark: Apokolips War’

Justice League Dark: Apokolips War is the sequel to Justice League Dark released in 2017. Apokolips War is also the final film in the DC Universe Animated Original Movies line. This film is directed by Matt Peters and Christina Sotta, written by Ernie Altbacker and Sotta. Familiar cast members return to lend their voices to the film. Matt Ryan voices John Constantine, Shemar Moore as Cyborg, Rosario Dawson as Wonder Woman, Jason O’Mara as Batman, and Jerry O’Connell as Clark Kent/Superman.

Apokolips War is an adaptation of the storyline The Darkseid War where we witness the Justice League, Justice League Dark, Teen Titans, and the Suicide Squad rally together to survive and thwart Darkseid’s onslaught and invasion of Planet Earth. At the beginning of the film, we see Superman briefing the Justice League of Darkseid amassing an army to try and conquer Earth. Rather than wait for Darkseid to make is move, Superman urges the League to take the first course of action. Unfortunately, this was their biggest mistake.

For the duration of this 90-minute film, I was at the edge of my seat. Being a fan of all fifteen DC Universe Animated Original Movies, this has to be my favorite. From the beginning, the film bought the noise. With an R-rating, it did not disappoint. It was equally part funny and action-packed. I enjoyed that the plot was easy to follow and never deviated with filler or unnecessary scenes. With your favorite iconic characters gracing the scene and jaw-dropping action, Apokolips War holds you in place from beginning to end.

As much as I love a triumphant story where our heroes stand vigilant and save the day, I am also a fan of seeing heroes get knocked on their ass and truly tested. As a villain, I personally feel that Darkseid has always been that roadblock and test for our heroes. Darkseid has not always been the ultimate conquered but also a supreme strategist. I loved that in his conquest for Earth, he removed his greatest obstacle off the board, Superman. Who is Superman, Kal-El without his powers? However, I equally love that without his powers, Kal-El is still the best of us, never giving up the good fight.

But what really shines is seeing the human characters rise above their weakness to try and prevail. Matt Ryan’s Constantine pretty much runs from the battle against Darkseid despite being able to use many avenues of the occult to aid him. We see him at his breaking point, giving up, and constantly on the run, trying not to get involved in the fight against Darkseid’s forces. Lois has stepped up to the plate, leading rebel forces, and gathering intel to survive their current reality. Seeing Lois in this light, felt right and not a gimmick. Lois has always been that character who never why’s away from a challenge or fight, so it made sense for her to be a rebel fighter and leader.

Justice League Dark: Apokolips War is an amazing film and ends the universe on a satisfying high note. Whether or not you have been following the plethora of movies that have released since Flashpoint Paradox, Apokolips War will not disappoint. From the story, character development, and crazy action scenes, you’re not going to miss a second of this film. Directors really lean into the R-rating and it fits, making you hope any other animated films created in produced take this route.

Justice League Dark: Apokolips War is available now for Digital Download and available on DVD/Blu Ray, May 19th, 2020