Plot: What’s it about?
The world has been saved from countless threats by the various super heroes, from Batman to Superman to Wonder Woman and beyond. As powerful and resourceful as these heroes are however, some threats prove to be too much, even for one of them to face down. After an alien invasion that took an assembled group of heroes, seven super heroes decided to found the Justice League, in an effort to combines forces. Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Martian Manhunter, and Hawkgirl formed the Justice League, able to team up to take on whatever dark forces assemble against mankind. While these seven form the basis for the super hero group, others will join them at times, when the need arises. With the world’s greatest heroes assembled as one, can even the powerful villains stand a chance against the Justice League?
I loved all the old school comic book cartoons, especially when the super heroes would team up, so I looked forward to Bruce Timm’s take on Justice League. The show manages to capture the essence of the comic books and the old shows, while also putting some fresh spins here and there. Some characters have been revamped, others given a new look, and some remain untouched and the choices made work quite well. This first season is solid, but gets shaky at times and in later seasons, these issues get ironed out the show hits a whole new level. But while this debut season was surpassed by the ones that followed, it still stands as a more than solid assortment of storylines and overall development. A few kinks exist of course, not everyone is going to like some of the decisions, but overall, Justice League: Season One is great fun for comic book and cartoon fans. There is some controversy over the use of full frame transfers, but since the DVDs are also full frame, why not upgrade to the best visuals, right? Justice League: Season One is well recommended and this high definition release is well worthwhile.
Video: How does it look?
The episodes are presented in full frame, which is sure to divide fans. This show was first broadcast in full frame, but creators insist the show was supposed to be shown in widescreen. In this release we’re given the full frame versions, which is going to be a let down for some, but the show still looks awesome. The visuals here are bright and bold, with vivid colors and stark contrast. I did see some minor issues at times, but no major ones, so no worries. The rich colors are bolstered by a pristine, razor sharp image, which yields incredible detail. The detail is limited by the animation of course, but this high definition treatment is so crystal clear, you can even pick up on animation flaws, which is damn impressive. I do wish we’d at least have been given the option for widescreen, but these episodes still look excellent.
Audio: How does it sound?
I’ve heard some excellent mixes on animated television releases (ala Samurai Jack or Return of the Joker), but this one never reaches those lofty levels, though it does have some spark and never disappoints. The surrounds are used here & there to enhance action based scenes or just build some atmosphere, but on the whole, this is a front channel audio presentation, which works well enough, I think. The dialogue is clean and no real problems seem to arise, so I think most folks should be pleased with this treatment. So while not memorable, this Dolby Digital 5.1 option covers all the required bases. This release also includes English subtitles.
Supplements: What are the extras?
Three episodes include audio comments from Bruce Timm and several others, each one well worth a listen. The group talks about the changes made to the characters, how the show is produced, and how the show compares to the respective comic book sources. All three are talkative and informative, so if you like the series, give these a chance. This release also includes a brief panel discussion, the original short used to pitch the series, looks at character design & storyboards, and The Blackhawk Theme music video.
