Directed by
Zack Snyder
Made by
HBO Max
Discover the intricate plot of Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
The film begins in the aftermath of the cataclysmic duel between Superman (Henry Cavill) and Doomsday, where their fatal conflict sends shockwaves across the globe, awakening the ancient powers of the Mother Boxes hidden across various realms, including the Stone home, Atlantis, and Themyscira. The Amazons witness a troubling sign as their box fractures, prompting a swift warning to Queen Hippolyta (Connie Nielsen).
PART ONE - “Don’t Count on It, Batman”
In a sweeping Icelandic landscape, Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck), on horseback, journeys to a village to recruit Aquaman (Jason Momoa). He discovers Arthur Curry in a lively tavern, but the locals dismiss his claims of a man from the sea. After showcasing his wealth, Bruce persuades Arthur to speak with him outside. Despite Bruce’s mission to gather allies after Superman’s death, Arthur declines his offer, preferring to return to the ocean while the village women sing traditional songs. Upon returning to his aide, Alfred (Jeremy Irons), Bruce shares his disappointment.
Meanwhile, in Smallville, Martha Kent (Diane Lane) prepares to leave her home with her dog, Dusty, due to foreclosure. Simultaneously, Lois Lane (Amy Adams) mourns Clark, visiting his memorial daily.
The scene shifts to London, where a group of merciless terrorists seize a museum, threatening lives with explosives. As the countdown begins, Diana Prince (Gal Gadot), also known as Wonder Woman, leaps from the roof to confront the intruders. Displaying her might, she redirects bullets with her gauntlets, vanquishing the leader and soothing the frightened children in the aftermath.
On Themyscira, Hippolyta joins her sisters in the temple housing the Mother Box. After a tense moment, a portal opens, summoning Steppenwolf ([Ciaran Hinds]) and his army of Parademons. The Amazons fiercely defend the Box, but Hippolyta, driven by duty, seizes the Box and escapes as her sisters bravely sacrifice themselves to protect it. Steppenwolf pursues her, and despite her efforts, he claims the Mother Box, menacingly taunting her before retreating. Hippolyta commands the igniting of a sacred fire to alert Diana of the incoming threat.
PART TWO - The Age of Heroes
At STAR Labs, a lurking Parademon senses the Mother Box’s energy and confronts a custodian. Victor Stone ([Ray Fisher]) is troubled by his father’s unethical actions in transforming him with the Box’s power. In response to the urgent signals, Diana decides to investigate the temple herself, discovering the arrow of Artemis as well as harrowing depictions of Darkseid ([Ray Porter]) and the Mother Boxes.
After Arthur rescues a sailor from perilous waters, he meets Nuidis Vulko ([Willem Dafoe]), who reminds him of his royal responsibilities and the looming threat of the Parademons seeking the Box the Atlanteans guard. Steppenwolf, meanwhile, updates DeSaad ([Peter Guiness]) regarding his mission, receiving criticism for his endeavor to seize the Mother Boxes.
Diana later seeks out Bruce at his home, where she details the historical significance of the Mother Boxes and Darkseid’s ambitions. The duo realizes the urgency of locating the Boxes before Steppenwolf can achieve his malevolent goals.
PART THREE - Beloved Mother, Beloved Son
In Central City, Barry Allen ([Ezra Miller]) attends a job interview, where he crosses paths with Iris West ([Kiersey Clemons]), sparking feelings of infatuation. A near-disaster occurs when a distracted truck driver collides with a hot dog cart, but Barry’s Flash speed allows him to save Iris and avoid catastrophe. The narrative reveals his struggles with his father’s wrongful imprisonment for his mother’s murder, further deepening his resolve.
As Steppenwolf’s menacing presence grows, he attacks Atlantean warriors, forcing them to divulge the location of the second Mother Box. Diana and Bruce review files on potential allies: Arthur, Barry, and Victor, ultimately uncovering Victor’s tragic past as he transitions into Cyborg.
Barry finds Bruce waiting at home, leading to a moment where Bruce reveals his knowledge of Barry’s identity. Encouraged, Barry decides to join forces with Bruce, while Diana seeks out Cyborg for assistance, but he hesitates due to his complex history.
After learning more about his father’s fate, Cyborg follows through with his plan to bury the Mother Box at his parents’ gravesite. Meanwhile, as Commissioner Jim Gordon ([JK Simmons]) uncovers kidnappings executed by Parademons for information, he calls upon Batman’s aid.
PART FOUR - “Change Machine”
The assembled heroes converge under a unified cause as Aquaman (Jason Momoa) rescues Mera (Amber Heard) and her people during a fierce battle against Steppenwolf, even as he wrestles with his feelings about his family.
Together, the heroes launch their assault against Steppenwolf on Stryker’s Island, confronting him while rescuing captives. Cyborg retrieves the last Mother Box, but not without a harrowing glimpse into the power of the Anti-Life Equation that Steppenwolf now seeks.
The League’s secret strategy to revive Superman becomes evident in their discussions. As Martha visits Lois, she prompts her to regain hope, all while disguising as the Martian Manhunter ([Harry Lennix]).
PART FIVE - All The King’s Horses
In a tense mission, the heroes dig up Superman’s remains, allowing Barry to utilize his abilities to trigger the revival process with electrical impulse. A vivid flashforward reveals Darkseid’s oppressive reign, sending chills through the group. As Superman emerges, confusion reigns until a traumatic misfire leads to chaos. Thankfully, Lois calms him.
Steppenwolf, relentless in pursuit, searches for the coveted Mother Box, leading to a heart-wrenching sacrifice from Silas. Cyborg mourns his father’s loss yet grasps the importance of familial sacrifice.
PART SIX - “Something Darker”
Reunited in Smallville, Clark regains clarity of his identity, embracing his legacy with a newly donned black suit. The Justice League embarks on a reckless counteroffensive against Steppenwolf’s continual threats as they deploy their unique abilities against the forces looming over them.
As exhilarating battles erupt, Superman finally reclaims his rightful place alongside his allies. Flash, culminating in a stunning act of bravery, reverses the dire effects of the Unity, and with Aquaman’s formidable strength, they dismantle the threat once and for all.
EPILOGUE
With hope rekindled, the League prepares to face future challenges as Cyborg learns from his father’s parting advice. Meanwhile, the villainous Lex Luthor ([Jesse Eisenberg]) plots from behind bars alongside Deathstroke ([Joe Manganiello]), concocting plans to undermine Batman. As echoes of a darker future linger, the heroes remain vigilant, standing guard against the encroaching shadows of destiny.
Track the key events of Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Aftermath of Superman vs. Doomsday
The film opens in the chaotic aftermath of the monumental battle between Superman and Doomsday. This devastating conflict reverberates worldwide, stirring the ancient powers of the Mother Boxes hidden in realms like Atlantis and Themyscira.
Bruce Wayne's Journey to Recruit Aquaman
In a picturesque Icelandic village, Bruce Wayne embarks on a mission to recruit Arthur Curry, also known as Aquaman. Despite his earnest approach, Arthur declines Bruce's offer, opting to remain in the ocean as the village engages in traditional songs.
Martha Kent Faces Foreclosure
In Smallville, Martha Kent grapples with the emotional turmoil of losing her home due to foreclosure. She prepares to leave the place filled with memories, taking her loyal dog Dusty with her, reflecting on the legacy of her son, Clark.
Lois Lane's Grief
Lois Lane mourns the loss of Clark Kent, visiting his memorial daily. Her heartache encapsulates the impact of Superman's death, as she struggles to find solace in a world devoid of his presence.
Diana Prince Saves Hostages
In London, Wonder Woman intervenes during a terrorist takeover of a museum. Displaying her extraordinary abilities, she fearlessly confronts the armed intruders, ultimately saving the lives of innocent children and showcasing her prowess.
The Amazons Face Steppenwolf
On Themyscira, Queen Hippolyta and her fellow Amazons bravely defend the ancient Mother Box against Steppenwolf and his Parademons. Despite their fierce efforts, Hippolyta is forced to flee with the Box as her sisters sacrifice themselves in a valiant attempt to protect it.
Victor Stone's Transformation
At STAR Labs, Victor Stone wrestles with the consequences of his father's experiments involving the Mother Box. As he grapples with his new reality, an unexpected visitor—a lurking Parademon—points to the imminent danger he faces.
Barry Allen's Heroic Moment
In Central City, Barry Allen attends a job interview that leads to an encounter with Iris West. When disaster strikes, Barry's superspeed enables him to save her, and he reflects on the challenges of his father's wrongful imprisonment.
The Justice League Unites
The heroes begin to gather, with Diana seeking out Bruce for a formal alliance against the rising threat of Steppenwolf. They review potential allies and strategize for a united front as darkness looms over the world.
The Resurrection of Superman
In a tense mission, the Justice League exhumes Superman's body, believing that reviving him is humanity's only hope. As they activate the revival process, the resurrection leads to confusion and chaos until Lois Lane’s calming presence helps him regain control.
Cyborg's Loss and Legacy
Following the revival of Superman, Steppenwolf attacks, leading to a tragic sacrifice from Silas Stone, Victor's father. This loss propels Cyborg to understand the true meaning of sacrifice and familial bonds.
The Justice League Fights Back
Reunited with Superman, the Justice League launches a relentless counteroffensive against Steppenwolf. Each member deploys their unique abilities, showcasing teamwork as they aim to dismantle the villain's plans and protect humanity.
Lex Luthor's Machinations
In a post-credits scene, the infamous Lex Luthor plots from behind bars, teaming up with Deathstroke to devise strategies that could undermine Batman. Their plans hint at a darker future that looms over the heroes.
Hope Rekindled
As the dust settles after their victory, the Justice League reaffirms their commitment to face future challenges together. With newfound hope, they stand vigilant against the shadows that threaten to return.
Meet the characters that bring Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Aquaman, Arthur Curry
Aquaman is portrayed as a reluctant hero torn between his earthly heritage and his Atlantean lineage. With an attitude blending bravado and vulnerability, he seeks solace in the ocean while grappling with the legacy of being a leader. His character arc involves significant growth as he ultimately embraces his responsibilities to protect both worlds.
Batman, Bruce Wayne
Batman serves as the strategist and the driving force behind the Justice League's formation. Rich and determined, he navigates his trauma from Superman's death while desperate to unite a team of heroes. His character reflects the battle between light and darkness, as he struggles with trust and the burden of leadership.
Wonder Woman, Diana Prince
Wonder Woman emerges as a symbol of strength and compassion, using her powers to protect the innocent. Her commitment to fighting for justice is unwavering, and she serves as a beacon of hope amid adversity. With a deep sense of duty, she embodies the theme of sacrifice for the greater good.
Lois Lane
Lois Lane is depicted as a resilient journalist grappling with the loss of Clark Kent. Her daily visits to his memorial highlight her deep love and grief. Driven by a quest for truth, she balances her professional life with a personal struggle that propels her into the larger narrative of hope and restoration.
Cyborg, Victor Stone
Cyborg represents the intersection of humanity and technology, struggling with his transformation after his father's experiments. His journey to accept his new identity is fraught with emotional conflict and discovery of purpose, ultimately reinforcing his role as a key member of the Justice League.
Superman, Clark Kent
Superman, as the fallen hero, encapsulates the theme of sacrifice and redemption. His resurrection signals hope for mankind, yet he is portrayed as conflicted upon revival. Clark's journey reflects the struggles of identity and belonging faced by someone who carries the weight of being the world's savior.
Uncover the settings of Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The events unfold in the contemporary period following the death of Superman. The movie showcases a world recovering from loss and facing impending threats from ancient evil forces. The timeline also highlights the resurgence of long-dormant powers and the gathering of heroes to combat encroaching darkness.
Location
Smallville, Iceland, London, Atlantis, Themyscira, Stryker's Island, STAR Labs, Central City
The movie takes place across various significant locations including Smallville, where Clark Kent's legacy unfolds; Iceland, where Bruce Wayne seeks out Aquaman; and Themyscira, the mystical land of the Amazons. Atlantis serves as the underwater kingdom home to Aquaman, while Stryker's Island is pivotal during the heroes' confrontations. London plays a role in setting up Wonder Woman's heroics, portraying a diverse scope of environments where the story progresses.
Explore the core themes of Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Heroism
Heroism is a central theme as individuals with extraordinary abilities band together to confront a powerful foe. Each character embodies a different aspect of bravery, from Diana's valor in rescuing innocents to Bruce's determination to unite the heroes. The sacrifices made in battle emphasize the strength of camaraderie and the collective fight for justice.
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Loss
The theme of loss permeates the narrative significantly, stemming from Superman's death and its aftermath. Characters like Lois Lane and Martha Kent illustrate the emotional struggles tied to grief. This loss acts as a catalyst for the remaining heroes to unite, driving them to not only remember their fallen comrade but also to confront new threats arising from despair.
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Legacy
Legacy plays a crucial role as characters grapple with their identities and responsibilities in the shadow of the heroes who came before them. Arthur, Victor, and Barry each face trials that shape their understanding of heroism and duty, striving to carve their paths as the new generation of protectors.
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