Since it was first published in 1986/1987, Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons’ Watchmen remains one of the most iconic and legendary comics/graphic novels of all time. It has since been adapted into a 3-hour-plus movie courtesy of Zack Snyder with the Watchmen Ultimate Cut and even a live-action sequel TV series in the form of HBO’s Watchmen, not to mention a comic book continuation with DC’s Doomsday Clock.

However, it’s only now, almost four decades later (in 2024), that we’re finally getting the most faithful and complete adaptation of Watchmen with the arrival of Watchmen Chapter 2.

Back when I watched and reviewed Watchmen Chapter 1, I questioned what was the point of an animated adaptation when we’ve already received a somewhat accurate live-action version (except for the divisive ending, which was the only thing Zack Snyder altered). I wasn’t impressed with Watchmen Chapter 1, but in hindsight, and after watching Watchmen Chapter 2, I see now that that is only because the story felt incomplete. Having watched Watchmen Chapter 2 has made me realize that both these two animated movies combined make for the most faithful and complete adaptation of the original comic we have ever received. It’s crazy that it took almost 40 years for this to finally happen, but it’s always better late than never.

J. Michael Straczynski, a legendary writer (he’s written many comics and is also the creator of Babylon 5) has brilliantly made a concise and well-written script that beautifully captures the themes and narrative of the comic. Both Watchmen Chapter 1 and Watchmen Chapter 2 cleverly adapt the source material by incorporating the Tales Of The Black Freighter comic into the plot of the movie. If you’ve watched Zack Snyder’s live-action adaptation, a lot of Watchmen Chapter 2 can feel like more of the same thing. That being said, the best part and highlight of Watchmen Chapter 2 is the climactic third act. It’s cathartic and satisfying to finally be able to witness the true and full original ending of the comics being adapted in all its glory with any changes or alterations.

The animation style of Watchmen Chapter 2 may still look divisive for its weird cel-shaded CG aesthetic, but it’s actually a decent recreation of bringing Watchmen co-creator Dave Gibbons’ unique art style to life (Gibbons is involved in this project as an executive producer). However, the framerate may remind certain viewers of the visual style in the various games by Telltale Games like The Wolf Among Us and The Walking Dead. This animation style does shine during certain moments, especially during the sections featuring Dr. Manhattan sections. Unfortunately, the action scenes can look pretty underwhelming and awkward, though one can argue that Watchmen has never been known for its ‘action’. Again, animation style can often vary depending on preferences so perhaps others will find the animation style more appealing.

Just like in the first movie, the voice actor performances are great, and highlights are the same: Titus Welliver as Rorschach, Michael Cerveris as Dr. Manhattan and Katee Sackhoff as Laurie Juspeczyk AKA Silk Spectre II. I especially like how Dr. Manhattan sounds, and Michael Cerveris can deliver his lines with the required gravitas. While Watchmen Chapter 1 was lacking in these elements, all the best dramatic and emotional moments have been saved for Watchmen Chapter 2, and with that, we get a payoff and conclusion to the cliffhanger from the first movie.

Watchmen Chapter 1 and Watchmen Chapter 2 in one sitting (as a complete package) are now the definitive adaptation of the comic and the best way of experiencing the seminal comic outside of the source material.

At least, until a future better adaptation comes along. The only better experience is actually reading the comic itself.

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