FILM REVIEW: Justice League: Crisis On Infinite Earths, Part One

‘Crisis On Infinite Earths, Part One‘ kick starts the DC Animated Universe’s take on an iconic and much loved comic book event. This is the first of three parts and I love that they are also turning this animated version into an event in its own right.

The film is directed by Jeff Wamester and adapted by Jim Krieg, with Krieg, Kimberly S. Moreau as Producers and Butch Lukic, Sam Register and Michael E. Uslan as Executive Producers. This first part essentially goes a very long way to explain the issue at hand and the problem that they are about to face and embark on. It also acts as the initial round up of Earth’s heroes and we also learn exactly how high the stakes are against them.

I am very glad that this story has not been squeezed into one film, which seems to be the case with many other animated adaptations. There is so much to unpack in the original story written by Marv Wolfman, with art by George Perez, and there is a lot to fit in, even with three parts. Personally I think this was a very wise decision and part one has me clinging on for more. Despite the rather dark tone of the story, there is some great humor peppered throughout and it was great getting to explore the many different Earths and versions of the heroes we know and love, this also acts as a reminder of just how big the DC Universe is.

Another thing I love about this adaptation is that you don’t need to be familiar with the original source material to understand and enjoy it. When I first heard that Crisis was being adapted, I was worried. It’s a big and intricate story line with so much potential, but with that there was also a big chance of it being confusing. I’m happy to report that this was NOT the case and the story really flowed well. I did feel that the first part of the story was a bit of a slow burner, but there are some great moments in this film. My personal favourite was the redemption of Amazo and also the exploration of the Crime Syndicate, who I would absolutely LOVE to see an animated film of.

A majority of the voice cast were returning to their roles and the entire cast were brilliant and in some ways this is the beginning of a send of to them and really reminds us how much we have come to love these versions of the characters. With a film of this magnitude, there are so many different characters involved and each one had their time to shine and those in the roles really gave it their all.

I’m a big fan of the animation in this film, it isn’t too different to what we have seen in recent DC animations, which for me is a great thing and once again continues to establish the unique and recognisable style of the DC Animated Universe. The score by Kevin Riepl is phenomenal, it really adds so much depth and atmosphere to the entire film and it really changes your emotion and feelings towards any specific moment. There are times that you feel hopeful, times you feel like cheering and of course with that, times of sadness and the music alongside these scenes are so tasteful and well done.

‘Crisis On Infinite Earths, Part One‘ is a solid and worthy reimagining of an iconic comic book event, that really goes a long way to reinforce how loved and vast the DC Animated Universe is.

‘Crisis On Infinite Earths, Part One‘ is available to purchase on digital NOW and will be available for physical purchase from 29th January. As of yet there is no official release date for Part Two, but the first trailer has recently been released.