Examining Plot Holes in Justice League: A Critical Analysis

Many films, including the critically acclaimed Justice League, have not been immune to criticism regarding plot holes that often fail to go unnoticed. This article delves into one such notable example, highlighting the inconsistencies in the film's narrative and exploring what these gaps reveal about the film's overall coherence.

Nuclear Bomb Timeline in Justice League

In Justice League, the criminal mastermind Steppenwolf poses a significant threat to Gotham City by withholding an artifact they need for a mysterious agenda. Ra's al Ghul and his apprentice Bane develop an elaborate plan to use this artifact to blackmail Gotham. One of the most prominent plot holes in the film arises from Bane's strategic plan and his ability to hold Gotham City hostage without any interference from the outside world, particularly with the introduction of a nuclear bomb.

Key Points of the Plot Hole

Nuclear Bomb Timeline: Bane’s plan involves a nuclear bomb that he threatens to detonate in Gotham. However, the logistics of keeping a nuclear device hidden and operational for an extended period while simultaneously managing to keep the entire city isolated from outside help raises serious questions. It is highly improbable that such a device would remain undetected for a prolonged period without being compromised or seized. Escape from the Pit: Bruce Wayne’s escape from the pit prison, a brutal and imposing facility, seems implausible. Given the harsh conditions and Bruce’s weakened physical state, the film’s depiction of him climbing out without any training or preparation feels like a stretch. This inconsistency detracts from the overall narrative, making it difficult to ignore for many viewers. Police Presence: Throughout the movie, the police force is shown to be trapped underground, which poses a significant logistical issue. It is hard to believe that no one in the city could have intervened or that the authorities wouldn’t have had a contingency plan for such an extreme situation. This inconsistency further complicates the film's overall coherence and narrative flow.

These inconsistencies detract from the overall narrative and make it challenging for many viewers to fully engage with the story without being distracted by these plot holes.

Other Films with Notable Plot Holes

Plot holes are not exclusive to Justice League. Other films, such as The Last Airborne and The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers, also have their share of narrative inconsistencies that have sparked debate among fans. However, these inconsistencies do not necessarily diminish the entire experience, especially if they are not explicitly explained within the canon of the film.

At the Risk of Defending the Undefendable

At the risk of defending the undefendable, it is essential to recognize that plot holes and narrative inconsistencies can be acceptable within the context of fiction. These phenomena are often outside the realm of everyday human experience, similar to many elements of science fiction. If we hold all sci-fi to the standard of “it doesn’t work like that,” we would be eliminating a significant portion of entertaining and thought-provoking entertainment.

However, consistency within a pre-established narrative is crucial for maintaining the suspension of disbelief. When filmmakers explicitly explain a certain principle or rule, but then violate it, it can be jarring and detrimental to the overall experience. For example, if a show sets a rule that shields cannot be used for transport, it would be inconsistent and problematic for the plot to suddenly allow for such a violation.

The Case of Annie

While plot holes in films are a significant concern for viewers, they also exist in other media, such as Broadway musicals. Annie, for instance, is a prime example of a production that suffers from numerous plot holes and stylistic inconsistencies.

Key Points of the Plot Holes in Annie

Abandonment: Annie, the orphaned protagonist, abandons the other kids in the orphanage and does nothing to help them despite having promised to do so. This is a significant plot hole, as it undermines the character's integrity and the overall narrative arc. Overloading with Musical Numbers: Annie is known for having an excessive number of musical numbers that often feel unnecessary and serve no clear purpose in solving the underlying problems of being an orphan. Controversial Government Program: The musical primarily focuses on promoting the New Deal, a controversial government program that both left and right are divided on. This aligns with the criticism that the movie's economic narrative is flawed, reinforcing the view that the plot holes in Annie contribute to its overall overrated status.

Furthermore, attempting to address these issues through casting changes, such as recasting characters as Black, has not resolved these fundamental plot holes and stylistic issues. The problems in the story are rooted in the narrative and themes, not in superficial changes.

In conclusion, while plot holes in films and other media can be frustrating, they are often a product of the narrative's complexities. Recognizing and addressing these inconsistencies within a film or show is crucial for maintaining narrative coherence and audience engagement. However, it's equally important to understand that not all plot holes are equally damaging, and some may be more acceptable within the context of a specific genre or story.