SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 11 Min.
Directed by Jake Castorena, this episode first aired in the U.S. on June 1, 2018. After a Kansas tornado crisis, a great ‘what-if’ pondered by Superman & Supergirl sets in motion the reality-warping of Mr. Mxyzptlk’s latest prank.
The now -“Kasnian” Man of Steel is now a slight variation of his rigid Soviet incarnation (specifically, DC Comics’ Superman: Red Son alternate reality). His super-cousin is now a vapid Hollywood mega-celebrity fixated on reality television. Mxyzptlk chimes in as her abrasive agent: “Morty.” In this reality, the Justice League no longer exists to possibly interfere. Naturally, the two blustery super-rivals face off for supremacy, leaving Booster Gold caught up in their feud.
Supergirl: Joanne Spracklen
Superman: Jason J. Lewis
Booster Gold: Diedrich Bader
Mr. Mxyzptlk / “Morty:” Gilbert Gottfried
TV Broadcaster: Uncredited
Red Carpet Onlooker: Uncredited
Notes: The broadcaster presumably was voiced by Jason J. Lewis or possibly Diedrich Bader. Joanne Spracklen probably also voices the onlooker’s single line. For whatever reason, data re: official episode numbers and original air dates for this series vary depending upon its source, so such info should really be taken as a best guess.
REVIEW:
Aside from one character’s implied death (which is magically undone), this Twlight Zone spoof is well-played entertainment. Voice actors Diedrich Bader and Gilbert Gottfried’s repartee pushing Booster Gold’s idiocy to hilarious effect pestering Mxyzptlk practically steals the show.
Joanne Spracklen’s take on Supergirl shines, as does Jason J. Lewis voicing a stern Eastern European accent for Superman. Their Kansas scenes for Superman & Supergirl add the precise touch of poignant humor. It’s a welcome balance to the episode’s parody of Superman & Supergirl, not to mention its good-natured skewering of Rod Serling and the Kardashians.
The chintzy animation, which gives Justice League Action its distinctive web series-like look, meshes remarkably well with this creative sitcom. Though youngsters may not recognize an obvious homage to The Twlight Zone, the spoofy “Mxy Zone” TV show intro is an inspired gag that hopefully resurfaces in DC Comics. Considering this episode’s target audience is wide open, even adult fans should appreciate this delightful Justice League caper.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 7½ Stars
Note: This episode is on the Justice League Action: Battles from Beyond! 2-disc DVD set (which collects this series’ second half).
