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Justice League Movie Review, Honest Review with Kim Holcomb

Justice League is rated PG-13 and opens in theaters Nov. 17

FOOD/DRINK BEFORE SCREENING: pizza and white wine
MOOD: jet-lagged
EXPECTATION OF MOVIE: low

First, let me say I won’t divulge any spoilers in this review because people who spoil movies suck.

In the spirit of full disclosure, I was a bit jet-lagged for this screening. I was on my second day in London and was feeling pretty tired.

For dinner, I’d had pizza and a glass of white wine.

My expectations were low, because while I love a good comic book movie, I'm not a huge fan of the DC franchises - other than Wonder Woman.

Justice League picks up where Wonder Woman and Batman v Superman left off - Superman is dead, the world is going to hell, and Batman is forming a team to battle the powers of evil.

I sat through every second of the 1-hour 59-minute movie – and credits – and have to say, it was underwhelming.

But before I start talking about what didn't work, let me tell you about the things I liked.

Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman once again brings a perfect mix of ferocity and empathy to her role. In an action-packed, fast-moving film, she’s one of the few things that feels authentic.

Jason Momoa is possibly the most perfectly-cast superhero, in any franchise. He looks and talks the part, bringing swagger and humor to the role. Even his real-life tattoo informed the full body tattoos Aquaman sports in the movie.

I also enjoyed the new toys – a Mercedes Batmobile, the Flying Fox aircraft, and updated costumes.

But all the fun parts of the movie weren't enough to distract from the stuff that didn't land.

They introduce a new bad guy who I couldn't spoil if I tried because I found him entirely forgettable.

The mix of CGI and practical effects feels like two different productions.

And they never fully develop anyone – I like the idea of Aquaman, but have zero idea what drives him. Every backstory feels like it was cut short, and that undercut any emotional attachment I could have to the characters.

I also thought the dialogue was uninspired - bland and even forced at times.

My review for Justice League? It felt like someone set a really nice table but didn't serve any dinner.

Maybe it was the jet lag, but it didn't do much for me.

But here's to hoping Wonder Woman keeps on keeping on.


WHAT IS “HONEST REVIEW”?
I’m a member of the Broadcast Film Critics Association. I interview actors and filmmakers. I’ve worked in broadcast television for 20 years.

I’m also a Seattle wife and mom who works full-time and sits in an hour of traffic (minimum) every day.

Sometimes I’m tired when I screen a movie. Sometimes I’m traveling and I miss my kids. Sometimes I’ve had a glass wine when I should have had a glass of water.

All of these things can impact my reaction to a film. Because I’m human.

So in an effort to write an Honest Review, I’ll always list the external factors that might affect my enjoyment of the movie. Then, I’ll give you my review. Then, you can decide if it’s useful or not.

What do you think of Honest Review or Justice League? Let me know at @kimholcomb

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