The Best Order to Watch DC Original Animated Movies, Including Justice League: Doom

DC Entertainment has produced a series of animated movies that have captivated audiences for decades. From the early Batman films to the more recent additions to the Justice League universe, there are many great movies to choose from. In this article, we’ll explore the best order to watch these movies, with a special emphasis on the Justice League titles, especially Justice League: Doom.

Justice League: Doom

Justice League: Doom (2012) is a thrilling adventure in the DC animated universe. This movie follows the Justice League as they face the threat of Maxwell Lord, a man who has obtained a device that can turn individuals into mindless weapons. The film is a great introduction to the Justice League and sets the stage for other important movies in the timeline.

Chronological Order for Core Justice League Films

Justice League: Secret Origins (2001): This movie is the first episode of the Justice League and helps establish the characters and their origins. It’s a good starting point for those new to the DC Animated Universe. Justice League: War (2014): This movie is directly tied to Justice League: Doom, making it an essential watch after completing the Doom storyline. Justice League: Flashpoint Paradox (2013): This film explores how a single change in the past can have far-reaching consequences and introduces a new version of the Bizarro villain. Justice League: Throne of Atlantis (2015): A darker take on the Justice League, where they face a new evil from the depths of the ocean. Justice League Dark (2017): This movie explores the darker, more mystical aspects of the DC universe, featuring characters like Deadman and Zatanna. Justice League: Apocalypse War (2020): The final major Justice League animated movie, which brings together the heroes to face a powerful enemy.

Other Important Animated Movies

While the Justice League films are a central part of the DC animated canon, there are several other key animated movies worth watching:

New 52 Animated Movies

The New 52 universe, introduced by DC in 2011, saw a shift in the character designs and storytelling. Some of the standout titles include:

Justice League: The Flashpoint Paradox (2013) Justice League: War (2014) Son of Batman (2014) Justice League: Throne of Atlantis (2015) Batman vs Robin (2018) Batman: Bad Blood (2021) Batman: Hush (2022) Batman: Red Hood and the Outlaws (2020)

Tomorrowverse Animated Movies

The Tomorrowverse is another ongoing series that explores different storylines:

Superman: Man of Tomorrow (2016) Justice Society: WWII (2017) Batman: The Long Halloween (2018)

Additional Recommendations

While the core Justice League and New 52 films form the backbone of the DC animated movies, there are several standalone titles that are worth watching:

Wonder Woman (2009): A strong introduction to the Greek superheroine. Batman: Under the Red Hood (2009): A gritty and action-filled film that explores the darker side of Batman’s rogues gallery. Superman vs. The Elite (2011): A thrilling showcase of Superman’s might against a group of powerful villains. The Dark Knight Returns (2016): A deep dive into Batman’s past and a powerful reimagining of the character. Joker: Zodiaki (2008): An animated approach to one of Batman’s most notorious villains. Justice League Dark: Apokolips War (2019): A mystical take on the Justice League, combining action and dark magic.

Avoid These Films

There are several films that, while not entirely worthless, are better left for those who are die-hard fans:

Batman: Year One (2004): While a visual masterpiece, the story doesn’t quite translate to the big screen. Superman: Apokolips War (2012): The plot is less engaging and lacks the depth of the source material. Batman: New 52 films (e.g., Batman: Hush, Batman: The Killing Joke): While individual installments can be good, they often lack the raw emotion and depth present in the comics. Batman and Harley Quinn (2011): A film that fails to live up to the potential of its characters.

Now that you have a solid roadmap for watching your favorite DC Animated movies, you can enjoy them in the best sequence possible. Happy viewing!