DC’s animated feature Crisis on Infinite Earths is walking a tightrope between homage and innovation, and whether it keeps its balance is the whole question.
First off, the film does a really decent job as an action-packed, serviceable entertainer. Still, it’s not without its issues.
The Homework It Assumes You Did
One of the biggest challenges it faces is the assumption that viewers are up to date with the entire corner of the DC Animated Universe called the Tomorrowverse. That started with Superman: Man of Tomorrow and Justice Society: World War II, it introduced Jensen Ackles as Batman in Batman: The Long Halloween, and it continued through Green Lantern: Beware My Power into Legion of Super-Heroes and finally Justice League: Warworld.
That presumption is a bit of a stretch, considering not everyone has seen all those movies. The gap becomes really evident when you’re talking about the Flash’s time slipping and all the different adventures he has in the Multiverse. These moments should have been impactful. Unfortunately they lose their punch for anyone not versed in the backstory and lore of the Tomorrowverse.
I’ll be honest, I didn’t even know what the Tomorrowverse was.
Two Versions That Came First
Reflecting on the source material, we’ve seen this storyline unfold in a couple of different ways before.
The original comic book event by Marv Wolfman and George Pérez was ridiculously singular. Before that, no one had even thought about concepts like the Multiverse, or different versions of the same character existing in other realities. This really original mega event, with its iconic moment of the Flash saving the Multiverse, was a narrative masterpiece. It was an epic, resonating moment that defined a generation of comics.
Then came the CW crossover event, which in my view marked the pinnacle of the crossovers. It brought a fresh twist, with Barry Allen anticipating a tragic end (spoilers) only for the Earth-90 Flash to take his place in a beautifully executed finale.
Devices Instead of a Sacrifice
This animated feature decides to narrate the tale differently. It avoids the dramatic sacrifice of the Flash, instead opting for a more intricate plot involving the construction of devices to protect the Earths from the tachyon wave.
This shift in storytelling, while unique, doesn’t quite capture the emotional depth or the sheer epic scale of its predecessors. It feels like a missed opportunity. It couldn’t rekindle that classic Flash magic.
What It Gets Right
Despite these critiques, the film does have its merits. The animation is top-notch, capturing the essence of the DC Universe with vivid visuals and really dynamic action sequences. A series of them, anyway.
The concept of using the Flash’s powers in a novel way to save the Multiverse is intellectually stimulating. We’ll go with that. Even if it doesn’t emotionally resonate as strongly as expected.
The Verdict
Justice League: Crisis on Infinite Earths Part One is a 6 out of 10 on the Know-It-All Index.
It’s a solid entry into the DC animated universe, but it doesn’t quite live up to the monumental legacy of its comic and live-action predecessors. It’s a commendable effort that lacks the emotional and narrative depth that made the original story so impactful. It’s a fine watch, but perhaps not the epic saga we were hoping for.
On the plus side, the movie shines with its animation quality. The visuals are a treat, bringing that classic DC feel to life in a vibrant and dynamic way. The action scenes are noteworthy, with an energy that keeps you engaged. Another big pro is the innovative use of the Flash’s powers, offering a new twist on a familiar story, which is always a refreshing take.
The film’s biggest hurdle is its assumption that you’re well versed in the DC animated movies and have kept up with all the ones leading up to this. If you haven’t, some plot points and character developments might not hit as hard. It’s a bit like jumping into the middle of a book series without reading the earlier volumes. And while the story is unique, it lacks the emotional depth and epic feel of the comic book and the CW series. That might leave some fans feeling a bit underwhelmed, especially if you’re looking for that classic Flash heroism and sacrifice.
Crisis on Infinite Earths Part One has its moments of brilliance, but it also kind of misses a few opportunities to really capture what made the original story so compelling.
But don’t listen to me. Watch it for yourself, it’s available to rent or buy, and then tell me what you think of the movie. Whatever your thoughts, the conversation lives in the comments on the video above.
