Perhaps the most anticipated movie of the DC extended universe's first chapter. While also promising to be by far it's most ambitious film yet. As the first six movies in this chapter of the DC Extended Universe built to the first ever crossover film. This film of course would be entitled origin and boasted a truly star studded ensemble cast. Boasting the longest length of a DC Extended Universe film so far. This film clearly had designs to be an epic as it boasted a run time of 210 minutes. In the run up this film was promised to be a true origin story of the Justice League coming together and would very much delve into the relationships formed across this bunch. In order to see how the team would come together however first we'd see the team in the run up to this crossover event. Starting out with Bruce Wayne (Wes Bentley), who from this timeline was not far removed from the events of Year One. Under the guise of Batman, Bruce would meet with Jim Gordon (Bryan Cranston). This would be quite the interesting update which covered several events following year one and also presented us with several teases for the future. Beginning with an update on Harvey Dent (Jon Hamm) who Gordon regretfully revealed was still in critical condition and had yet to wake following his acid attack at the hands of Salvatore Maroni (Al Pacino).
During this conversation between the two we'd see some slight changes that had been made with the GCPD since the events of Year One. As Despite a worried Gordon alluding to a power vacuum amongst the Gotham Crime families. It would appear that the GCPD itself had made some positive steps. Mentioning how Arnold Flass (Christopher Meloni) had sold many of his corrupt colleagues out in order to save his own skin. Gordon would reference the fact that the walls were closing in on Howard Branden (Josh Helman) who for now was still in his role as part of SWAT. At the culmination of this conversation, Gordon would also introduce something which mayor Marion Grange (Carla Gugino) had authorized as he flipped a switch introducing the Bat Signal for the first time. Returning home to talk with Alfred Pennyworth (Charles Dance), we'd begin to see some confliction from Bruce. As while the good he'd done thus far was clear to see, he also couldn't hide concerns for some of the changes that Gotham was taking also. During this conversation we'd see further tease for Alfred's past as he told Bruce that he'd been keeping tabs on Selina Kyle in Port Orsegwo before mentioning that he'd also began compiling the records which Bruce had asked for. Here we'd learn that Bruce was well aware of the changes and goings on in the world. Looking to do more, Bruce had used Alfred's knowledge to craft contingency plans on threats to the world. As he'd study the files, Bruce would ask Alfred to take his place at a event being held at Haleys Circus.
The story would then take a slightly lighter turn as we'd be taken to Metropolis for the next chapter. In a similar contrast to Year One, this chapter of the story would continue soon after The Man of Steel left off. In the opening scene of this part we'd see Clark Kent (Matt Bomer) and Lois Lane (Allison Brie), now a recently developed couple going out for a meal with Clarks' parents Jonathan (Steve Carrell) and Martha Kent (Laura Linney). Having grown closer with Lois firmly in the know of his identity, Clark and Lois would prove to have great chemistry as a couple and as colleagues. For while Clark had continued to impress at the Planet with his work. It was Lois and her secret project which was their true focus. As with the approval of Perry White (Jimmy Smits), Lois Lane aided by Ron Troupe (Echo Kellum) and Cat Grant (Halle Berry) would continue to look into the goings on at Lex Corp. Of course what they wasn't truly aware of was a reporter of the planet George Taylor (Oliver Martinez) was trying to report everything he could to Mercy Graves (Anna Kendrick) regarding this situation. This however in a slight tease hadn't gone unnoticed by Steve Lombard (Chace Crawford).
Every report put together by Taylor was personally over looked by Mercy who in turn would relay this information to a bemused Lex Luthor (Denzel Washington). Aware that for his plans he needed the world to see him in a positive light. Lex in conversation with police chief David Corporon (Julian Glover) would ask for the chief to look up any potential sources of weakness or pressure points on those investigating him. On top of this Lex made it clear to Mercy to keep the pressure on Taylor knowing what'll happen should this progress. Later that day in another secret meeting Lex Luthor would meet with Superman in an attempt to be partners. Again however Superman would respectfully refuse Lex's offer stating that for now he had to do this alone. Again despite his friendly exterior Lex took this as a major slight that Superman was looking down upon him and his ego could not accept an alien being the one to judge him. He wouldn't be the only one as we'd learn with a vested interest in Superman as we'd see several photographers snapping pictures of the Man of Steel and relaying them to Alfred Pennyworth. This would be the least of Clark Kent's concerns however as when he'd head to the Fortress of Solitude, as it would be here that Clark would receive warnings by a hologram of his father Jor-El (Dougray Scott) of a dangerous enemy heading to earth.
Again we'd then shift in the story this time to the island of Themyscira. Unlike the other two stories covered just far the scenes we'd see were literally just after the events of Introducing Wonder Woman. As we'd see Diana Prince (Jaime Alexander) return home with the statue of Ares (Daniel Craig) to a heroes reaction from from her fellow Amazons. Following an emotional reunion with her close friend Mala (Tracy Spiridakos). Diana would also find herself met by old rivals Orana (Rose Leslie) and Artemis (Elodie Yung). While there was a mutual respect which had formed between Diana and Artemis, things were still frosty between Diana and Orana. Another reunion would be Diana with her mother Hippolyta (Kate Winslet) and aunt Antiope (Laurie Holden). Despite having her misgivings of Diana going to the man world, Hippolyta was unable to hide her pride at Diana vanquishing the villainous Ares. It would be in conversing with Hippolyta, Antipe and Philipus (Naomi Campbell) that Diana told her mother of Nubia (Nicole Beharie) and her quest in the man world.
Remarking that Phobos (Oliver Stark) was still out there and needed to be stopped. Diana wished to return to the world of man knowing that in her world the mission wasn't complete and she wanted to bring her sister home. While Hippolyta would process this news we'd be taken back to England where Steve Trevor (Josh Duhamel) would join Etta Candy (Orla Brady) in a meeting with Phil Darnell (Colin Firth). During this conversation the trio seemed unaware that their so called ally Maxwell Lord (Channing Tatum) was the one housing Doctor Poison (Rachel Weisz) and Paula Von Gunther (Sophia Marceau). In fact while Lord's endgame was yet to be deciphered it appeared that with the influence of Phobos, Lord was aware of an incoming threat coming perhaps from one of Phobos' memories of Ares and his teachings. This is why Lord stressed that for now Poison and Von Gunther were to go underground as he instead looked to unite them to combat what is coming.
Again the story would then shift to the next member of the Justice League as we'd head to Central City. Continuing only a couple of months from where Born to Run left off. We'd see Barry Allen (Dylan O'Brien) continue to grow into the role of the Scarlet Speedster known as the Flash. Things had not only changed however in Barry's life under the mask but also away from it as his relationship with Iris West (Shailene Woodley) had began to flourish. The pair of course had grown close following suffering losses of their fathers and Iris would fully support Barry's extracurricular activities as the Flash. Aiding Barry in his work of course would be Emil Hamilton (Matthew Modine) and also Tina McGee (Madeline Mantock) both of whom were fully commited to using Star Labs research and facilities for the betterment of mankind. On top of this Barry's work at the Central City crime lab would also continue as James Forrest (Morgan Freeman) continued to mentor Barry as well as many of his employees. Showing Barry's further growth we'd see him finally begin to make up for lost time as even his close friend Patty Spivot (Elizabeth Lail) noticed positive changes in his behavior and time keeping.
Of course not everyone was fully on board with this new Barry Allen, as Kristen Kramer (Kacey Rohl) could never quite shake her doubts about Barry. While respectful of him as person, it seemed that something about Barry's upswing just didn't make sense with her and this would cause her to be suspicious of Barry. One doubter however of Barry who had since turned a corner was that of David Singh (Jay Ali). Now no longer paired with Paulson, Singh would be working closely with Frank Curtis (Michael Rapaport) and the duo would work many cases in which they was aided by Barry's theories. With names mentioned in passing as Snart, Rory and Woodward as recent names who Barry's work has helped catch. It was in his work as the Flash that Barry had further helped the CCPD. While in public Captain Frye (Rufus Sewell) kept a hard edge regarding the Flash, in private he would acknowledge the Flash being a great assist. This would include a recent case in which the Flash stopped a prolific criminal by the name of Joel Cochin (Tim Griffin) who was in the middle of a crime spree.
Having firmly stayed on Earth for these first few chapters of the Justice League film. We'd soon make the voyage into space for the next part. Yet first we'd travel to Coast City as Hal Jordan (John Krasinski) returned to earth having finally been welcomed and recognized as part of the Green Lantern corps. Hal however wouldn't take this journey on his own as he'd be joined by Appa Ali Aspa (Donald Sutherland) who was looking to learn the ways of Earth. Assuming a more human form it would only be Thomas Kalamaku (Forrest Wheeler) who was aware of Ali's real origin. In fact it was seen as cool by Thomas to introduce an alien to earth's culture which provided some levity to proceedings. While Thomas was the only one who knew of Hal's identity as the Green Lantern, Carol Ferris (Odette Annable) would have her suspicions based on some familiarities she had noticed between Hal and the Lantern. Having reconnected with his family, Hal seemed to have truly found some peace in his life as he'd make frequent trips to OA. During these trips we'd see that Hal was no longer seen as undeserving or just a recruit. Instead he was looked upon as a true Green Lantern.
Having earned the acceptance and respect of Sinestro (Sean Harris) and also now helping Kilowog (Nonzo Alonzie) mentor new recruits. Hal would be truly trusted with continuing on the legacy of his fallen comrades. However while Hal and Sinestro may have formed a close bond. It was very clear that Sinestro was keeping secrets from Hal. This was shown in his fascination with fear and his research into Parallax. Of course it wouldn't be Sinestro for now who would be a concern to the Green Lanterns, as instead a beacon for help was activated. During a routine inspection as we'd see in flashes Tomar Re (Hank Azaria) would lead an expedition throughout one of the sectors. This was down to strange emissions being detected. On their arrival this Lantern unit would encounter a fearsome alien known as Despero (Chukwudi Iwuji) who would effortlessy wipe out most of the soldiers with only a badly wounded Tomar remaining. On hearing this story Hal would race to earth as Tomar indicated that Despero was heading to that district.
Returning to earth it would then be time for the next story to be told as we headed to Amnesty Bay. While the original Aquaman film may not have been as well received as the other entries so far in the DC Extended Universe. Having vanquished Corum Rath and took his role as the new King of Atlantis, it seemed that Arthur Curry (Alexander Skarsgard) had firmly taken on the task of trying to bring harmony between the lands above and under the sea. While he and Mera (Emma Stone) still looked to establish their relationship ahead of their eventual marriage. Arthur would also further his growth as a king as he allowed Prince Orm (Karl Urban) a chance to make his departure and allowed him a full day before swearing to send guards after him. Aided by his friend Erika Watson (Milyana Vantub) who would help lay some ground work for welcoming Atlanteans to Amnesty Bay. While this was met with hesitation on both sides it genuinely seemed like many in Atlantis had changed their ways and way of thought.
This would also be the same for the Xebellians who seemed eager to mend fences between the two factions. Ryus (Graham McTavish) in particular despite being open to embracing those above the sea was still eager to see a wedding happen sooner than later between Mera and Arthur. In Arthur's court we would see both Tula (Georgia Hirst) amd Murk (Jonathan Rhys Meyers) loyally continue to serve with Tula eager to connect with her brother. At the same time both Atlanna (Winona Ryder) and Vulko (Jonathan Rhys Davies) would loyaly now act as Arthur's advisers and in Atlanna's case. She would help Mera lead both kingdoms while Arthur was away which would include the hunt for Orm and also Mera's sister Hila (Halston Sage). In the first tease to close out this chapter we'd see Arthur on his arrival to Amnesty Bay notice a flashing green light from the sky above.
The next cut however would introduce our villains. With Despero already making a brief appearance at least in short glimpses we'd begin with his story. Described at one time as just a humble scientist on his home planet. Yet it would be through his own research and experimentation that Despero transformed from a humble scientist on Kalanor to a vicious dictator obsessed with power. His obsession with nuclear energy would only further cause Despero's descent into villainy as he completely transformed his form from a skinny, pink skinned alien with a third hypnotic eye to a physically imposing powerhouse. It wouldn't just be Despero in space however that the League would have to contend with as for the first time we'd see Starro drifting through space and making a beeline through to earth. However there would already be threats on earth which we would soon learn was the Queen of Fables (Rosamund Pike). A dangerous exile from a mysterious dimension the Queen of Fables was a powerful sorceress looking to conquer. In order to do so she'd need a knight to aid her in her crimes and she'd recruit the recently arrested Cochin. Granting him with powers to become the Paragon.
It would seem this was all part of a sinister plot or coalition formed of unlikely individuals had for reasons unknown united together. This conspiracy seemingly had a agenda in mind as Starro would hit the earth first and begin using it's drones to corrupt and influence all those it could. No one would be safe from this not even Atlantis or Paradise Island as both Wonder Woman and Aquaman had to fight against their own people. Seeking to stop the violence and destruction these drones were causing Clark Kent would jump into the fray as he looked to save the world from itself. As he would do so Clark would be the first hero to encounter another as he'd meet Barry Allen for the first time. While both were in their heroic guises they quickly recognized that they were both looking to help and save others. Soon they would be further joined by Hal Jordan. Having been aware of the alien threats to earth, Hal was taken aback at the size of Starro but soon he'd be joined by Sinestro to combat Starro. With Superman and Flash also quickly joining them in this battle we'd soon see in a surprising appearance Prince Orm (Karl Urban) would appear and begin helping save civilians from Starro's attack.
What would truly turn the tide against Starro however was the arrival of Martian Manhunter (Sterling K. Brown). The powerful martian would appear before Clark, Barry, Sinestro and Hal and he would help turn the tide against Starro. Realizing that he had been bested Starro showing an awareness and intelligence that one might not expect would flee. Before we got the crossover we was awaiting however we'd be treated to a much different union. Sitting down inside a fancy restaurant establishment we'd see Bruce Wayne joined by Lex Luthor and Maxwell Lord. The dynamic between the trio was one which was fascinating to see as for the first time it appeared that Lex had a peer. However despite their xenophobia to aliens it wouldn't be Maxwell Lord who Lex held in such high esteem. Seeing Lord as nothing more than a government shill, Lex instead saw behind the bluster of Bruce Wayne and swiftly recognized the intelligence of the man sat across from him. During this meeting it appeared that Lex looked to sway both Bruce and Max to his side of thinking. Yet it would be Max Lord who surprised everyone as he revealed he was looking to form a team. While Lex Luthor may not have been willing to buy into this Bruce Wayne was and later on Max would organize a meeting.
Going undercover as an ally of the Bat, Bruce would be introduced to Diana Prince and Steve Trevor (Josh Duhamel). We'd learn that being aware of the threat posed by these alien invaders to their world, Diana had returned to the world of man in order to stop this threat once and for all. Agreeing for the Bat to meet with Diana later as they had another to find. Diana would later meet with Batman and quickly identify him as the same man she met earlier. However she would bring Bruce to Aquaman for a meeting who had also become aware of the threats they was facing. Before this trio could truly meet however they would be confronted by Paragon. Shown to be a skilled and formidable combatant based on powers given to him by the Queen of Fables, Paragon was perhaps slightly overconfident of himself going against these three heroes and it would soon be shown when a trident by Aquaman would mortally wound Paragon. As Paragon bled out and succumbed to his wounds, Paragon would warn them of the Queen. From here Martian Manhunter would appear before this trio before he'd bring them to a meeting with the other heroes.
This would be our first chance to witness some of the dynamics of the group. Beginning most crucially with that of Batman and Superman. It would be clear that both men were well aware of who one another was. This would include in private Superman revealing that he knew that Bruce had been surveilling and keeping tabs on him for a while now. While there may have been some tension between the two of them. Both of them would share a great relationship with Diana. With this meeting being assisted by Max Lord who would find them a secret location to meet. We'd see a quick bond form between Hal Jordan and Barry Allen. Aquaman meanwhile despite acknowledging the threat they would all face was noted for keeping a distance from the rest of them. During this meeting Max Lord revealed thanks to his contacts and use of Lexcorp technology as well as other sources. He had compiled a lot of data on what they had to go up against. Remarking that while Starro had fled that is someone who can always return. Lord says for now focus has to be on both Despero and the so called Queen of Fables. During this meeting we'd see a slight bond of respect form between Arthur Curry and Bruce Wayne while Martian Manhunter made the point of mentioning this group isn't a team. It was his belief something darker was pulling the strings out there.
This would be quickly established during a confrontation between the Queen of Fables and Despero. The dynamic between the pair was tense with the Queen of Fables shown to be a control freak looking to pull back some power and control for herself. Despero meanwhile was angry and hellbent on revenge and this power struggle between the pair would lead to all out war breaking out between the pair. The Queen would summon all manner of fairytale creatures to battle against Despero and it would be during this battle we'd see the Justice League truly come together for the first time as they looked to battle these threats. While Steve Trevor, James Gordon, Erika Watson and Jillian Pearlman among others were shown to be helping save and escort people stuck in ground zero away. The Flash and Green Lantern would unite with Aquaman to battle against the Queen's fairytale creatures. This would allow Diana Prince in an act of quick thinking to trap the Queen of Fables in the bill of rights knowing that the Queen would be unable to escape that book of text and use it as her own.
With the Queen of Fables defeated we'd see Batman and Superman be forced to put any tension or difficulties aside to combat Despero. Shown to be a powerful foe who even Superman had issues with defeating on his own. It would be Martian Manhunter who truly come into play during this as he entered the mind of Despero and showed him a world in which he'd won and reigned supreme. This would put Despero in a state of peace and cause him to regress to his former form. With Despero still trapped in this mental prison, Superman would manage to banish Despero into the Phantom Zone once and for all. With these threats to the earth defeated it would be Max Lord who appeared before the group and revealed in a tease that he was already constructing a headquarters for the team. With that we'd then move onto the closing scenes which showed the Justice League having come together at least for now. At peace with his decision to reveal himself for the first time Martian Manhunter returned home saying if he was needed he would appear. A budding friendship based on respect would also be formed between Bruce and Clark. The real bond of note however was the close friendship formed between Barry and Hal.
The final closing scene of the movie would not only lightly tease a race between Clark Kent and Barry Allen but also show potential chemistry between Bruce Wayne and Diana Prince as the Justice League film came to a close. Yet the post credit scene would show and add a lot more understanding to what had transpired with these attacks on earth. Shown to be taking place on an unknown planet. We would see a now dead Starro being torn into by a variety of fearsome, demonic looking aliens. As they tore shreds into Starro while they fed on his corpse. The closing moment would pull away revealing this to all be under the orders of Darkseid (Idris Elba) who hadn't taken kindly to Starro fleeing or his plans failure. |
