Injustice (2021) Movie Review: A Dark and Controversial Take on the DC Universe
Introduction
Injustice (2021) is an animated film adaptation of the popular DC Comics storyline and video game series of the same name. The film, directed by Matt Peters, presents a dark and dystopian version of the DC Universe where the boundaries between hero and villain blur, and moral dilemmas take center stage. Injustice poses a gripping “what if” scenario that has captivated fans for years: What if Superman, the symbol of hope and justice, were to lose his way and become a tyrant?
Plot Summary
The story begins with a devastating tragedy that shakes Superman to his core. The Joker, in a twisted plot, tricks Superman into killing Lois Lane, who is pregnant with their child. The loss pushes Superman over the edge, leading him to abandon his moral code and embark on a quest to eliminate all evil by any means necessary. This shift in his character drives him to take control of the world, enforcing peace through absolute power.
Batman, who remains committed to justice and freedom, opposes Superman’s regime. The film unfolds as a battle between former allies, with the Justice League divided and the world caught in the crossfire. Heroes and villains alike must choose sides in this intense conflict, resulting in a story filled with action, drama, and ethical dilemmas.
A Controversial Adaptation
Injustice (2021) takes significant creative liberties with its source material, which has led to mixed reactions from fans. While some appreciate the bold choices and the exploration of darker themes, others feel that the film doesn’t capture the full depth and complexity of the original comic book and video game narratives.
The film compresses the sprawling Injustice storyline into a compact runtime, which means that certain characters and plot points are simplified or omitted. For newcomers to the Injustice universe, this might make the story more accessible, but long-time fans might find it lacking in the richness that made the original tale so compelling.
Voice Acting and Animation
The voice cast in Injustice is strong, with Justin Hartley voicing Superman and Anson Mount taking on the role of Batman. Hartley’s portrayal of a broken and authoritarian Superman is both chilling and tragic, capturing the internal struggle of a hero who believes he is doing the right thing, even as he descends into villainy. Anson Mount’s Batman is a steadfast counterpart, embodying the resilience and determination to protect humanity’s freedom at all costs.
The animation quality in Injustice is solid, with dynamic action sequences and a darker color palette that suits the film’s tone. The character designs are faithful to the source material, though some fans might miss the more detailed artwork of the comics. The film’s visual style effectively conveys the bleak and oppressive atmosphere of a world under Superman’s rule.
Thematic Depth and Moral Questions
One of the most compelling aspects of Injustice is its exploration of moral ambiguity. The film challenges the traditional superhero narrative by asking difficult questions: Is it justified to sacrifice freedom for security? How far should a hero go to prevent evil? Injustice forces its characters—and its audience—to confront these dilemmas, making it a thought-provoking addition to the DC animated universe.
Streaming and Availability
For viewers in the United States, Injustice (2021) can be streamed on various platforms:
- HBO Max: As part of the DC Universe library, subscribers can stream the film on demand.
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase in HD and 4K formats.
- Apple TV: Offers rental and purchase options with streaming in HD and 4K.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Provides options to rent or buy, with streaming available in multiple formats.
- Vudu: Rent or buy the movie in HD or 4K, with options to stream instantly.
With these streaming services, accessing Injustice (2021) is convenient for fans who want to explore this darker take on the DC Universe.
Conclusion
Injustice (2021) is a bold and divisive entry into the DC animated film lineup. It offers a thrilling, if condensed, look at a world where Superman’s quest for control leads to catastrophic consequences. While the film may not fully satisfy die-hard fans of the original comics and games, it serves as a compelling introduction to the Injustice universe for new viewers. With its strong voice acting, intense action, and thought-provoking themes, Injustice is a must-watch for those interested in exploring the darker side of superhero narratives.
Whether you’re a fan of DC Comics or just curious about this alternate reality where Superman turns into a tyrant, Injustice is worth checking out. Thanks to the variety of streaming services offering the film, it’s easier than ever to watch Injustice online and experience this controversial chapter in the DC Universe.
