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Episode #2 – For the Man Who Has Everything Original Airdate – August 7th 2004 Batman and Wonder Woman visit the Fortress of Solitude on Superman’s birthday, only to find him trapped by Mongul. Review by Bleu Unicorn | Credits: Written by J.M. Dematteis Adapted from a story by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons Directed by Dan Riba Music by Lolita Ritmanis Animation Services by Dong Yang Animation Voices: |
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| Review I think everyone had their reservations about the new Justice League. There was in the very least a lot of skepticism surrounding it. But, at least in my opinion, I think this episode proved that the new show can work just as well, if not better in its new format. And with the promise of a revolving cast of guest stars, I found it very enjoyable that this episode was devoid of new faces (save those introduced in the dream sequence). Dream sequences are nothing new to the DCAU and have in the past been done very well and been received with great enthusiasm. Delving into Superman’s deepest desires not only solidifies the idea that he, at least some of the time, feels very alone; which, is understandable, since he’s the sole survivor of a planet that no longer exists. A fact that has often been brought to his attention by any number of people. His deepest desire, it is revealed, revolve around family. He dreams of a Krypton that still exists and thrives, with his parents alive and well and a family of his own. As most desires go, this one’s pretty much impossible to achieve, which makes it only that much more precious and hard to give up. In fact, that pain is transferred into a furious rage and is thus turned onto a very deserving All that notwithstanding, this episode certainly is not devoid of action. In fact, while not as solely devoted to action as "Initiation", this episode has its own share of brutal fighting. Mongul’s no slouch this time around by anyone’s definition – leaving Wonder Woman injured before any real fighting even begins. Superman, in his post-dream rage, holds back nothing and their ensuing battle is quite a sight to behold. A few touches I was greatly pleased with: Mongul’s design, a nice improvement. The Invisible Jet, which is the first thing shown in the episode, was just a treat. Batman’s Black Mercy-induced dream – need I say more? Wonder Woman plainly not being Superman’s equal, where in the past this fact could have been debated. The animation in this episode is really mind-blowing. Very fluid and consistent, accompanied with perfectly timed cuts between scenes. Along with a perfectly fitting and well placed score, that seems to just get better the more I hear it. I was also very impressed with the superb voice acting, especially from George Newbern, who all-to-often is criticized just because he isn’t Tim Daly. It was also a nice treat to have Dana Delaney and By all accounts it was an incredible episode and hopefully just a beginning to a season of continued excellence from the new series. |