Justice League Dark: Apokolips War (2020) is an animated superhero film from DC Comics, part of the DC Universe Animated Original Movies series. Directed by Matt Peters, the movie serves as a conclusion to the long-running DC Animated Movie Universe (DCAMU), which began with Justice League: War in 2014.
In Apokolips War, the Justice League, along with the Justice League Dark (a supernatural team that includes characters like John Constantine, Zatanna, and Swamp Thing), face off against the mighty Apokolips, ruled by the villainous Darkseid. The movie picks up after the events of Justice League Dark: The Flashpoint Paradox and follows the final battle for Earth, as Darkseid launches an all-out war on the planet.
The film features a darker tone than many other DC animated films, with a storyline that is more mature and intense. It opens with a major defeat for Earth’s heroes as they try to take the fight to Apokolips, leading to catastrophic consequences. The Justice League is nearly wiped out, and many of the heroes are either captured or killed. The few survivors must come together to stop Darkseid, including Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, Constantine, Raven, and others.
A significant aspect of the film is its mature content—there are intense battles, brutal moments, and stakes that feel genuinely high. Characters are forced to make difficult choices, and the emotional toll of the war is apparent throughout the story. There are several notable twists and shocks that make the film stand out, especially for fans of the DC animated universe who have been following this continuity.
The movie also explores some of the darker, more complex sides of certain characters, particularly John Constantine, who has been a central figure in the Justice League Dark films. His often cynical, anti-hero nature provides a sharp contrast to the more traditional Justice League members, adding depth and complexity to the overall narrative.
Justice League Dark: Apokolips War received positive reviews for its action-packed scenes, emotional weight, and the way it wrapped up multiple storylines from the DCAMU. It offers a satisfying, though bittersweet, conclusion to the saga. Fans of DC Comics and mature animated superhero films will likely appreciate this gritty, high-stakes adventure.
If you’re a fan of the DC Animated Universe, or just enjoy superhero films that explore darker themes, Apokolips War is an intense and rewarding watch.
