By Jacob VanHoutan, Staff Writer

The newest addition to the DC Extended Universe, “Justice League” is about bringing Batman, Wonder Woman, Aquaman, The Flash and Cyborg together to take down Steppenwolf, a warrior from another world working for Darkseid.

This film had two directors. Zack Snyder began principal photography, but he had to stop late in production due to some family matters. Joss Whedon came in to add some of his own personal touches to the film, particularly a little more comedy. But “Justice League” never felt like two movies with two different visions. This film still feels like the vision of Snyder. Some of the re-shot scenes are very noticeable, and this did take me out, but I still felt like each addition was in the same vision. The scenes that Whedon worked on seemed like he was just adding a little more levity to the overall film.

What holds this film together the most are the performances by the actors. Ben Affleck is at his best as the Batman in this film. He still isn’t the best in that role, but does a very good job. Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman is again fantastic. She embodies this role so well that she is just a great presence on screen. Henry Cavill as Superman was also amazing. I had never found a cinematic version of Superman as well portrayed. Yet, this film opens with him, and it delivers. This is the kind of portrayal I have been waiting for because I felt that Cavill could bring it to the screen. All the new additions are pretty great as well. Ezra Miller’s Flash is definitely the comedic relief, and most of his jokes got a chuckle out of me. Jason Momoa as Aquaman is just so much fun. He doesn’t have a lot of depth, but he is just the kind of character to have a drink with and have a good time. Ray Fisher’s Cyborg doesn’t get as much development as the rest of the cast and doesn’t leave a ton of impact coming out of the theater, but he does a good job in the role, and I hope to see more of him in future installments of this universe.

This film is just a lot of fun. It feels less like a DC film and more like a Marvel film. All the heroes are strong and well-defined. The story and action don’t take themselves too seriously, and the villain is very weak and super forgettable. The film has its moments of seriousness, but all in all, the film is a good popcorn flick. “Justice League” doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel by any means and definitely has its own shortcomings. But for those willing to look past the flaws, I could see everyone having a good time.

This article first appeared in the Friday, December 1, 2017, Edition of The Echo.