QUEZON City, Philippines (April 4) – This is a movie about friendship. And that may be the reason why fans are griping about the latest opus by Zack Snyder.
Long awaited, not just by DC fans, all over the world, “Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice” broke all records at its premiere as a certified international box office hit.
Always, there is a risk in making a movie about a much beloved franchise. Fans have grown up with these stories, have memorized every detail and minutiae. Many, I dare say, spent most of their lives immersed in this imaginary universe. No one can compete with the power of imagination, even if you are a multi-awarded film director.
Sometimes, ignorance is really a bliss.
Without the burden of foreknowledge, we can sit back and enjoy the aesthetically appealing world of Snyder, with its predominantly gray hues and muted colors. The action scenes also do not disappoint and Snyder have already developed his formula for a satisfying portrayal of graphic violence.
The actors also turned in wonderful performances, with Amy Adams in one of her rare serious roles and Jeremy Irons’ wonderful portrayal of a snarky Alfred.
But the one that stole the show is Jesse Eisenberg. He owned Lex Luthor, effectively erasing past portrayals of the comic universe’s prime human villain. He was able to infect the character with his own quirks – this is how a multi-billionaire geek should behave.
And we return to the point that I raised earlier: this movie is about the power of friendship. Although we are expecting one of most epic fight scenes in cinematic history – after all it’s right there in the title – and the movie, in my humble opinion, delivered, still it is that shared connection between the two superheroes that paved the way for a friendship that is might enough to save the planet. Enter cringing fans.
I am not wholly opposed to the idea and kudos to Snyder for actually thinking of the kids that are going to watch the film. And with that positive message, we are now ready to explore further forays into the DC Extended Universe.
(written by Jay Paul Carlos, additional research by Vince Alvin Villarin)
