LEGO DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League: Cosmic Clash

The 2016 animated film LEGO DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League: Cosmic Clash, directed by Rick Morales and featuring the voice talents of Troy Baker, Jessica DiCicco, Grey Griffin, Josh Keaton, and others, is an energetic blend of creativity, humor, and thrilling superhero antics that stays true to both the LEGO brand and the beloved DC Comics Universe. The movie, while primarily targeted towards younger audiences is also layered with elements that seasoned comic book fans can appreciate. It does a spectacular job of merging high-octane superhero battles with the trademark whimsy of LEGO games and shows, while adding its distinctive spin on the Justice League and their galactic endeavors.

At the heart of the story is Brainiac, the infamous, data-obsessed alien supervillain voiced by Phil LaMarr, who is on a relentless mission to shrink the Earth and add it to his miniaturized collection of planets. The Justice League, the supreme union of superheroes, is the last line of defense against this intergalactic menace. Troy Baker reprises his role as Batman, a character he has expertly portrayed in several other animated adaptations. He imbues the caped crusader with a mix of duty-bound sense of justice, a tinge of brooding skepticism, and relatable vulnerability that's quite engaging.

Other characters joining this cosmic clash include Superman, voiced by Nolan North, who delivers an admirable performance as the hopeful and power-packed man of steel, Green Lantern portrayed by Josh Keaton, bringing his light-hearted charm and immeasurable willpower to the fore. Wonder Woman, voiced by Grey Griffin, oozes courageous feminism and captures her warrior spirit with class. Phil Morris brings the Martian Manhunter to life, while Jessica DiCicco voices Supergirl, adding a youthful exuberance to the character. The group dynamic between the characters is tight-knit, humorous, and showcases just the right amount of friendly banter, a nod to the complexity and depth of the original comic book personalities.

The narrative of LEGO DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League: Cosmic Clash takes these iconic characters on a chaotic time-hopping journey as they are catapulted across different points of history by Brainiac's technology. From the depths of the prehistoric era to the digital vortex of the far future, the heroes must coordinate their efforts and utilize their different powers not only to survive but to save the Earth from Brainiac's megalomaniacal plan.

During these temporal voyages, the film incorporates multiple DC comic references to its storyline that would intrigue established fans, such as appearances of well-known locations and other DC characters. However, it also demonstrates a knack for making such references accessible and comprehensible, even to viewers unfamiliar with the DC Comics extended universe. This is one of the areas where the film displays a good balance, catering both to hardcore fans and newcomers all at once.

As a LEGO movie, LEGO DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League: Cosmic Clash is full of the exuberance, lightheartedness, and fast-paced energy distinctive to this franchise. The animation is bright, colourful, and engaging with great attention paid to the signature block-style design of the characters and their surroundings. The film does a commendable job of incorporating LEGO mechanics into the animation, using blocks for not only structures and objects, but also for non-static things like smoke, fire, and water, maintaining the unique LEGO aesthetic throughout the film.

Another notable feature of the film is how it fuses the dynamic action scenes with team-oriented problem-solving scenarios representative of LEGO games, which is a delight to watch. It also packs a hefty dose of humor, consistently punctuating the heavy superhero action with playful comedy and witty one-liners, as per LEGO movie tradition.

Overall, LEGO DC Comics Super Heroes: Justice League: Cosmic Clash is an exciting, light-hearted animation that packs plenty of adventure, while putting a unique LEGO spin on beloved superhero characters. It’s a must-watch for LEGO fans, superhero fans, and anyone looking for an entertaining, all-ages movie that combines action, humor, and stunning visuals into a captivating bundle of fun.