[Editor’s Note: This review may contain spoilers]
Directed By: Ethan Spaulding
Written By: Heath Corsen
Starring: Rosario Dawson, Nathan Fillion, Christopher Gorham, Matt Lanter, Jason O’mara
Original Release Date: January 27, 2015
Summary
Justice League: Throne of Atlantis picks up where the Justice League: War after credits scene left off. A US military sub is attacked in the depths of the ocean sending Cyborg on a mission to investigate who attacked it. He and the League quickly realize it was warriors from Atlantis that sunk the sub. Black Manta stages an attack on Atlantis which causes Prince Orm and many citizens to demand war be declared on the surface world.
Meanwhile, on land, Arthur Curry has recently lost his father and is emotionally lost. He is unaware of his rightful place as king of Atlantis. But when he is attacked by warriors from the sea, Mera saves him in time to show him his true birthright. But can he claim his rightful place in time to help the Justice League and stop all-out war between Atlantis and the surface?
Positives
It’s great to see Aquaman take center stage in an animated movie. Long has Aquaman been the butt of jokes to everyone but true comic book fans, and this movie plays a significant part in making the ridicule a thing of the past. Based on the “Throne of Atlantis” storyline by Geoff Johns, this story really shows why Aquaman is a bad ass and how significant he really is to the protection of a planet that is composed mostly of water.
The animation in this movie is great as are some of the character designs. The voice acting is a step up from War, especially with the addition of Nathan Fillion as the greatest Green Lantern of them all: Hal Jordan.
Negatives
Though I enjoyed this movie, I feel it pales in comparison to the comic story, but that is usually the case in most adaptations. But in this animated film, Aquaman comes across a little too angsty for my taste. But given his father recently died in the film, it is reasonable to believe his character would be that way. How they continue to characterize his character in future installments will determine if it was a bad characterization or just a stage in his life.
Verdict
Though it fails to capture the scope of the epic story line from the comics, this is a fun movie and a great follow up to Justice League: War because now the League is complete. It’s also great to see Aquaman and Mera in action with the League and not as jokes, but as equals.
If you enjoyed War you will most likely enjoy this film and I recommend you check it out.
