Today’s quick review: Justice Society: World War II. The Flash (Matt Bomer) is bewildered when he’s transported back in time to World War II. There he meets the Justice Society, a secret team of superheroes led by Wonder Woman (Stana Katic) that is helping America fight Nazi Germany. As the Flash tries to figure out how he was sent there, the Justice Society attempts to decode a message that holds the key to stopping the Nazis’ latest plan.
Justice Society: World War II is an animated superhero movie based on DC Comics characters. The movie follows the Flash, a modern-day superhero, as he goes back in time to visit the Justice Society, the World War II predecessor of the Justice League. The movie scores points with its colorful action and expansive universe. However, the weak backbone and mediocre payoff of the story make it a step down from DC’s best animated offerings.
The main strength of Justice Society: World War II lies with its cast of lesser-known heroes. Characters like Hawkman (Omid Abtahi), Hourman (Matthew Mercer), Black Canary (Elysia Rotaru), and the original Flash (Armen Taylor) provide a nice change of pace from DC’s usual lineup. Their character development is not as subtle as it could be, but their interactions are enjoyable enough, and their different powers help vary the action scenes.
Unfortunately, Justice Society: World War II lacks a strong backbone to support it. The initial hook of Barry Allen traveling back in time works well enough, but after that the story quickly loses momentum. Barry tags along on a series of Justice Society missions, but the mystery of why he is there is never fully addressed. Furthermore, the bookend scenes of Barry in the present are some of the weakest in the movie, dampening the story’s impact.
Justice Society: World War II is an enjoyable outing for fans of DC superheroes, but its plot leaves something to be desired. Viewers who are willing to take it as a standalone romp with a few loose ends will have some fun, but anyone hoping for top-tier character work or a satisfying mystery will be disappointed.
For a superhero origin set in the same continuity, try Superman: Man of Tomorrow. For a live-action superhero movie that takes place during a World War, try Captain America: The First Avenger or Wonder Woman. For another animated superhero movie that takes the Flash to a different world, try Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox. For an iconic superhero drama that puts a similar cast of characters through the wringer, check out Watchmen.
[6.4 out of 10 on IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13804084/). I give it a 6.5 for a decent setup with weak follow-through.