Martian Manhunter: Not in Justice League 2017, but Present in Other DC Comics

Martian Manhunter, a superhero originating from 1955, is a significant founding member of the Justice League. Despite his rich history and unique powers, Martian Manhunter did not make an appearance in the Justice League 2017 movie. However, he is prominently featured in other DC Comics series, particularly in Supergirl.

Backstory and Powers of Martian Manhunter

Martian Manhunter, whose identity on Mars was Jonn Jonzz, comes from a race of green shapeshifting telepathic monsters. Due to his species being wiped out by an alien race, Manhunter left for Earth to warn Earth about the impending invasion. Ultimately, this led to the formation of the Justice League, a group of superheroes dedicated to protecting the Earth from these extraterrestrial threats. His backstory highlights a significant family tragedy, with his entire race being wiped out, which included his own family. Manhunter's name on Mars was Jonn Jonzz, reflecting a mix of his planetary origin and personal identity.

On reaching Earth, Martian Manhunter chose to adopt the name "J'onn J'onzz" and embarked on a mission to combat crime. He developed a keen interest in protecting humanity after witnessing tragic events involving corrupt detectives. He took on the form of Detective John Jones and became a detective himself, attracted by the crime-solving aspect of the role.

Unique Abilities and Weaknesses

Martian Manhunter is known for his uniquely powerful abilities. He has the ability to phase through solid objects, turn invisible, and is a powerful telepath, with his powers often compared to those of Professor X by fans. Interestingly, his powers lie in his telepathic abilities, making him a formidable opponent in the hero community. However, contradistinct from popular belief, Martian Manhunter is not just a common example of a character who fears 'everyone’s weakness.' Instead, he suffers from an intense fear of fire. When confronted with fire, he is paralyzed with fear, unable to move or act, which can be both a liability and a trait that defines his character.

Appearance in Other DC Comics: Supergirl

Despite missing out in the Justice League 2017 adaptation, Martian Manhunter has a role to play in very specific DC Comics contexts, such as Supergirl. In this series, he appears as a mentor and sometimes even a love interest to Supergirl, showcasing his continued relevance in the DC Universe. His presence in Supergirl indicates his ongoing importance to the DC comics community, where readers can witness the rich plot development and intricate character relationships that define his role.

Conclusion: Martian Manhunter's Enduring Place in the DC Pantheon

The absence of Martian Manhunter in the Justice League 2017 movie does not diminish his significance in the DC Comics and wider superhero culture. His rich and complex backstory, distinctive powers, and unique vulnerabilities make him a beloved and enduring character. His absence from the movie highlights the limitless possibilities in the expansive universe of DC Comics, where heroes continue to meet in varied and evolving contexts. His presence in Supergirl is a testament to his enduring legacy and the creative freedom that DC Comics allows in crafting stories around these iconic figures.

For more information on Martian Manhunter and other superheroes, explore the vast and dynamic DC Comics universe.