Hey gang, Valkor here. I would have thought that there'd be a time where I’d be tired of watching the DC/WB Animated movies; my thinking was that the films would eventually go stale. However, I’ve yet to see any proof of that as the latest film to hit the market – Teen Titans: The Judas Contract is anything but. Talk about a wild ride! This one has a little bit of everything to make it one of my new favorites!
“The Judas Contract” finds the Teen Titans banding together to take on Slade aka Deathstroke and Brother Blood. Blood has a deal with Slade for him to capture the Titans to make them a part of a machine that will not only grant him their powers but also make him something of a god. And in order for Slade to truly get a hold of his prey, he’ll plant a member of his own within the group who will betray them and complete the contract. The film also deals with the team truly coming together as a team and as well as a family as there appear to be a few hiccups amongst the group. For example, Terra isn’t quite fitting in and the same can be said for Raven. Blue Beetle also has issues with his parasitic other, who has a problem getting along with other humans and keeps him away from his family. But getting back to the main story, Slade eventually completes his end of the deal thus capturing all but Nightwing to be a part of Blood’s ritual. And the Titans will need to give if their all if they wanna make it out of this one alive.
I’d just like to toss in a few Teen Titan related pokes; first, I’m glad that DC/WB finally got their shit together and are putting out a 3rd season of “Young Justice”; it was one of the greatest animated series to hit television, and to have it prematurely taken away is just a shame. Next, Teen Titans Go, which was YJ’s replacement, I've heard good things about it. I never really sat down and watched it as it looked a little too cartoony for me. But maybe one day I’ll give the show a real run. Maybe. Lastly, what is up with that Teen Titans live-action series? Last I heard it was scrapped, but I hope something comes out of it. Who knows how long the current run of DC shows will last, and there’s always room for something fresh and new!
The Good:
Let me just start off by saying that DC/WB owns on the animated front, and what helps the most is that the films are fueled by great writing. And that trend continues with “Teen Titans: The Judas Contract”, which is the perfect blend of action and drama. Plus it brings along all of the maturity the DC animated films have become famous for, really pushing the envelope. I thought the Batman/Batgirl sex romp (though we don’t see it) in “The Killing Joke” was a stretch. This round, they nearly go so far with two characters that just seem a little creepy. Plus the whole thing is topped off with some racy humor that’ll definitely score a laugh or three. Now, the story in “The Judas Contract” will hold you because it's simple and fun, but it’s the action that’ll force you to stay as it’s truly a sight to behold! It’s so riveting and hard-hitting. And it got me so amped that I wanted to punch somebody in the face when it was over (too far)! We’ve got the story, we’ve got the action, but we’re not finished as great vocal performances balances everything out. Brandon Soo Hoo as Beast Boy was a definite show stealer and there’s no way you won’t walk away loving this guy (well his character). Stuart Allan also gets cool points as Damian Wayne aka Robin, who also keeps his level of dicketry in check. Finally, mad respect and also RIP to Miguel Ferrer (Four Assassins), who gave a great voice to the character Deathstroke. And while you will be missed, at least we have this animated treat, among other films, to remember you by. In the end, if you haven’t gotten your hands on “Teen Titans: The Judas Contract”, don’t miss out because there’s so much fun to be had!
The Bad:
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The Ugly:
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“Teen Titans: The Judas Contract” is available now on the digital front, with a physical release on April 18th. And there’s a whole lot of awesome packed within that 100+ minutes of film! Regardless of the format, I highly recommend checking it out, especially if you’re a fan of the DC animated films. You will not be disappointed. So, out of TOV 5 stars, I’m giving “Teen Titans: The Judas Contract” 5 stars.
