It was the Atomic age, it was the age of cynicism, is the age of optimism, it was the age of civil rights and feminism, yes folks, “Justice League: New Frontier” is not just a new frontier in its world, but a new frontier for the DC Animated Universe who for once approach a more adult Justice League with intellect, sophistication, and wonderful if startling glimpses at politics, racism, and military corruption. The folks behind the film vie for a more young adult approach by offering perspectives both psychological and social in these hero’s lives and dares to look behind the gods into the personalities.
And of course for all of you worried about there being nothing but drama, there are also giant dinosaurs, space aliens, and incredible action with animation that’s a charming and often awe inspiring hybrid of Fleischer and Timm. “Justice League: The New Frontier” sets down on an America that’s facing incredible violence against humanity and the threat of communism, and this then reflects on the super powered titans who are afraid to admit that humanity is so self-destructive that they really have no reason to help them when it all comes down to it. One of the truly excellent aspects of Bullock’s adventure is that there isn’t one particular center of gravity amidst the massive cast of superheroes. Each and everyone of them are facing their own personal conflicts, and they constantly wander into each other to lamenting their own purpose.
The Flash is a point in his life where he’s being thought of as a criminal because of his red suit and appearance, Wonder Woman’s own form of justice is bringing about violence, Batman is thought of a menacing being due to his costume, and Hal Jordan is at a crossroads in his life after a violent confrontation with a Korean soldier. His story is perhaps the most accomplished as we follow his progression of amazing fighter pilot to a man who is destroyed psychologically looking for a reason to go on in his life. His discovery of Abin Surr, who grants him the power of the Green Lantern’s ring finally gives him a reason to press on as a man and a hero. These individuals have no clear direction in their lives, and they can’t seem to find a focus, especially when the government finds them a threat as the days go on.
But when a sentient being named The Centre begins spawning violent cults and attacks all over the world, the call of duty becomes apparent and they must be forced to confront whether or not humanity is a cause worth dying for. As for Superman comes off more as a god-like being sans the Jesus Christ overtones, and you have to appreciate that about Cooke’s film. He’s the moral equalizer, the being who just wants peace and integration and finds that momentarily when the call for heroes becomes dire once the Centre takes form and begins bringing about massive monsters who multiply with ease. “Justice League: The New Frontier” is a mature and superb adaptation from Warner Bros. and DC Comics with an all star cast of talented character actors from the likes of Kyle McLoughlin, David Boreanaz, Jeremy Sisto and Lucy Lawless, respectively, all of whom are just great in their character’s skins.
“Justice League: The New Frontier” possesses something that previous DCAU films didn’t, it has a clear grasp on its target audience, while never afraid to confront the social turmoil of its era in which its set. It never sugar coats, and for that it’s a one of a kind adaptation that beckons a look at the source material. For the two-disc edition, there are wonderful features like a ten minute glimpse at the newest Direct to DVD film “Batman: The Gotham Knight,” and three banner episodes from the Bruce Timm “Justice League” animated series. What else is there to say? “Justice League: The New Frontier” surpassed all expectations with an intelligent, remarkable adaptation filled with incredible animation, thought provoking conflict, and a great cast. It’s definitely worthy of your dollar, definitely.