Animation requires grit, nerve and imagination. Follow director Jay Oliva whose astounding Batman: The Dark Knight Returns reset my expectations. For extra fun, Justice League Dark offers an enticing, mysterious storyline that grabs the intellect and pulse faster than a roller-coaster.

Initially, you might suspect the Scarecrow of masterminding hallucinations that grip the planet. It turns out there’s something else at play. Stepping out of the Justice League circle, both Batman (Jason O’Mara) and Wonder Woman (Rosario Dawson) confront John Constantine (Matt Ryan). Apparently, the latter may hold abilities and knowledge that could set the League upon the right path.

Magic belongs to those practitioners that understand misdirection. We look left instead of right, while our eyes create the biggest deception. In animation, such stagecraft can be lifted. No need for wires or mirrors. However, the genre does require a shake-up now and again; a gentle reminder as to why we fell in love with it in the first place. Happily, Justice League Dark induces fiery inspiration that sends this particular vehicle and its crew into a new orbit.

My favourite scene? Probably the opening collection of nightmarish happenings. Talk about a strong foundation for setting the tone as black, hellish but not entirely hopeless.

Dark yet not impenetrable

Heroes gifted and vulnerable.

Rhyming alter-ego desperately required.

Newest members to Justice League duly hired.

Animation tip-top from Jay Oliva

Emerging as something of a star.

Batman adds crucial flavour.

While twist arrives from unexpected saviour.

Wonder Woman returns suffering no fool.

Her resolve entirely cool.

A shout out to artistic team.

Beyond fine, their efforts a dream.

(Released by Warner Home Video and rated "R" for disturbing violenc.)