Justice League Unlimited (or JLU) is an American animated television series that was produced by and aired on Cartoon Network. Featuring a wide array of superheroes from the DC Comics universe, and specifically based on the Justice League superhero team, it is a direct sequel to the previous Justice League animated series. JLU debuted on July 31, 2004 on Toonami and ended with the episode aired May 13, 2006. It is also the last series of the DCAU.
Superman, Batman, The Flash, Green Lantern, Hawkgirl, Martian Manhunter and Wonder Woman… Seems like a lot of heroes… Justice League Unlimited lives up to its name and opens the door to a plethora of heroes, both well known and underused, from the pages of DC Comics.
Justice League Unlimited picks up where Season Two of Justice League left off, effectively acting as Season Three. Superman organizes a vast array of talent from across the DC Universe and informs them that, as league members, Martian Manhunter will send them out on hero-appropriate missions. Martian Manhunter coordinates league activities from the satellite and most episodes begin and/or end there.
The great thing about Justice League Unlimited is the introduction of characters like The Question, Green Arrow and Booster Gold and the ongoing Project Cadmus storyline that runs through almost all of the included episodes. Sure, some lame characters make the cut (who wants Hawk and Dove involved?), but seeing an animated Black Canary makes it all worth it. Those who have followed these heroes through their cartoon interpretations will appreciate nods to The Wonder Twins and Apache Chief. Comic fans will enjoy iconic stories such as For The Man Who Has Everything and an appearance by The Suicide Squad. If you’re not sold yet, there are crossovers with Batman Beyond and Static Shock, a look at four league members as children, and a moment when Batman croons. There is something for the hardcore fan boy and newbie in every episode.
