Ranking Every DC Original Animated Movie Worst To Best

Set in an alternative 1950s, 'The New Frontier' spotlights the origins of Justice League whilst a country was in political turmoil and set against the concept of a superhero, not to mention an alien invasion was looming on the horizon.

Now, here's a DC movie that had no right to work, with an insanely ambitious plot full of big ideas and only a brief running time. Yet somehow it all gels, the muscular writing and wonderful art are its massive benefactors.

Yet, it also helps that the rooster (Superman, Batman, Green Lantern) have familiar back stories so their intros can remain brief but effective, as the relentless main plot barrels forward. Refreshingly the central focus sways more towards the often under-utilised Martian Manhunter, excellently voiced by the late Miguel Ferrer, as a shapeshifter trying to understand and fit in with the human race.

It's a wonderful homage to the golden age of superheroes, the art is a pitch-perfect replica of Darwyn Cooke's retro style from the source material, and the finale is a gonzo smash-up of all things great about 1950's pulp; the newly formed Justice League jump into battle against prehistoric monsters & alien invaders. Yes, you heard it right, it's DC vs Ray Harryhausen's back-catalogue, and it's gloriously gory to boot.

Strangely, out of the DC films catalogue 'New Frontier' has been pushed to the wayside over the years. Sure it might not be as cutting-edge or sexy as some of the other titles but don't let that sway you; it's loving made, excellently written and a blast to sit through.