Ep 23. Comfort and Joy

As a powerful team of superheroes, the Justice League is always on call to save the world from whatever threat may arise. But in "Comfort and Joy," the 23rd episode of Season 2, they take a break from their epic battles and focus on the more personal side of their lives.

The episode is divided into three segments, each showcasing the holiday traditions of different members of the Justice League. First up is Superman, who takes a break from his duties to spend Christmas with the Kents in Smallville. The opening scenes show him flying through a winter wonderland, enjoying the simple pleasure of playing in the snow. When he arrives at his childhood home, he is greeted by ma and pa Kent and a house filled with homemade pies and Christmas decorations. While he tries to relax and enjoy the festivities, he becomes aware of an angst in himself -- an angst that likely emphasizes his loneliness.

Meanwhile, in downtown Washington D.C., The Flash is delivering Christmas presents to children in a children's hospital. In an incredibly heartwarming scene, he races around the wards, bringing joy to sick children and their families. The scene has a melancholic touch as Flash thinks about his own lack of a close relationship with his family, something you wouldn't typically expect in the show.

The final segment is centered around J'onn J'onnz, or Martian Manhunter. He too is feeling melancholic during the Christmas season- he seems the most lonely of all the team members. Forgetting about his sadness, he invites all of the league to spend Christmas with him in his lonely home. The party that follows is both hilarious and heartwarming. The team drinks alcohol, plays board games, and watches Christmas movies, and the scene is filled with plenty of banter and comical antics. It's an unexpected departure from the usual superhero action, but it's a welcome change of pace that allows the team to bond on a more human level.

Overall, "Comfort and Joy" is an episode filled with heart and humor, showing the human side of the superhero team. It's a wonderful reminder that even superheroes need to take a break from saving the world and spend time with their loved ones, whether it means returning home or creating new bonds of friendship with those who are alone. This episode is a rightful holiday classic among fans of the show!