Justice League director Zack Snyder shares why he’s not interested in working with Gunn.
Is the world tired of superheroes? This question that echoes through the halls of Hollywood finds an unexpected echo in the words of Zack Snyder, the visionary behind Justice League and Rebel Moon. In a recent interview with The Atlantic , Snyder admitted to sharing this “fatigue” with comic book adaptations, which he described as narrative dead ends.
How are you DC?
Snyder, best known for kicking off the DCEU with Man of Steel, doesn’t seem to be in a rush to return to this universe. Contrary to what fans might expect, the director denies knocking on James Gunn’s door to direct another DC film. Now their focus is on creating original IPs that resonate and innovate, as evidenced by their latest project, Rebel Moon.
Despite mixed reviews, Rebel Moon, especially the original Son of Fire, managed to gain attention on Netflix. This success led to plans for a sequel, Rebel Moon Part 2: Scargiver, as well as comics, spin-off shows, and a video game. Snyder stuck to his vision, wanting to offer something more than the traditional superhero movie formula.
You don’t need superheroes.
Rebellion Moon introduces us to a mosaic of unique characters, from Cora (Sofia Boutella) a deserter of the Imperium, to Kai (Charlie Hunnam), a mercenary pilot. Each character brings their own story and skills to this epic struggle to fight for the survival of a peaceful colony at the edge of the galaxy. Snyder invites us on a journey where redemption and revenge are intertwined in a rich and complex narrative.
Snyder’s reflection on the weakness of the superhero is not only a critique of the genre, but also a call to creativity in cinema. Are we seeing a shift in public opinion? Is this the beginning of the end for comic book movies as we know them? Only time and box office can answer these questions.
From heroes to their own universe
In the current landscape of cinema, Zack Snyder represents an image of transition and evolution. With 300 and Iron Man, Snyder has shown a unique ability to bring comics and fantasy worlds to life since the beginning. However, his recent penchant for creating original universes like Rebel Moon marks a major shift in his work. This shift reflects not only the filmmaker’s growth, but also his response to a market flooded with comic book adaptations.
Comparatively, the Netflix movie distances itself from the aesthetics and themes of DC superhero movies. Here, Snyder explores a narrative that is more personal and unbound by genre expectations. Developing characters like Cora, played by Sofia Boutella, and building an entirely new universe shows his ability to create beyond the boundaries set by his previous works. With Rebel Moon, Snyder not only reinvents himself, but also challenges audiences to embark on new cinematic adventures.
Meanwhile, Snyder, director of Justice League, 300, Watchmen and Man of Steel among others, continues to forge his own path, defying expectations and exploring new cinematic horizons. With his recent space opera, along with all the work available to him and his future projects, Snyder seeks not only to break away from the established mold, but to set a new standard in visual storytelling. His journey is just beginning.