Now Showing: Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice
April 1, 2016
Fans who have waited to see the Man of Steel and the Caped Crusader duke it out since the release of Frank Miller’s graphic novel, “The Dark Knight Returns” (1986,) will not be disappointed with “Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice.” But those who have less knowledge of the history of these characters may be left baffled by this new film.
Set 18 months after the events of the 2013 film “Man of Steel,” Metropolis has been repaired from the damage brought on by the battle between General Zod (Michael Shannon) and Superman (Henry Cavill). Society is split on the last Kryptonian, known to the world as Superman, because he is seen as both a savior and a god with no limits. Billionaire crime fighter Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck), feeling helpless after losing thousands of employees during the Metropolis battle, sees Superman as a threat that has to be put down.
Donning his batsuit, Wayne launches an all out effort to see Superman restrained, and if needed, eliminated. Along the way, the cunning Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg) sees an opportunity to get rid of Superman, believing that his absolute power cannot be innocent.
Many have called the plot of this film flimsy, and at times, confusing, but I felt that it was crafted straight from a comic book. Taking inspiration, most notably, from “The Dark Knight Returns,” the film shifts between different points of view, from Wayne’s attack on crime, to Clark Kent dealing with the mental cost that accompanies being Superman.
Some viewers may find themselves lost in the two and a half hour long film, but it is best understood by focusing on the rivalry between Batman and Superman. Everything else happening is a foreshadowing of what’s to come in the DC Extended Universe of movies.
Still, the film had its fair share of troubles, particularly with its screenplay. At times, the dialogue was serious and enthralling, but there were moments ruined by the unnecessary ramblings of some characters.
Even if the script is a problem, the film’s visuals will take away some of the pain. I was not disappointed with the cinematography, special effects, and looks of the Zack Snyder film. The movie is stunning yet gloomy, which it should be, as it is not a story of friendship and happiness, but rather one about the harsher realities of politics and the world.
The battles that Snyder and his crew have created are visually stunning. Coming from the man who created “Watchmen” (2009,) and “300” (2006,) I was not surprised. Batman and Superman’s climactic duel is nothing short of awesome.
Filled with so many world reknown characters, the expectations were set extremely high for every actor, especially for Affleck, Eisenberg, and newcomer Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman.
As Batman, Affleck did not just meet expectations, he surpassed them. Whenever I saw his Batman on screen, I was reminded of the Dark Knight (previously played on screen by Christian Bale) that I’ve grown to love. Whether it was the fight scenes, or just moments of conversation, Affleck was able to bring in the Batman I have seen in my favorite cartoon shows and video games: a damaged vigilante and detective, doing whatever it takes for the greater good.
Gadot’s short screen time was most memorable, as her entrance brought fans to their feet. When she arrived, she looked like a serious Amazonian Princess who could fight on the level of Superman, not just some eye candy from 1970s TV. Her small performance as Wonder Woman gave a glimpse of what amazing things could come in her solo film.
The elephant in the room, or cast to be precise, was Eisenberg as Luthor. Many called his performance as inconsistent and uncharacteristic, but when I saw it, I looked at it as a fascinating twist to the role. His Luthor is the son of the deceased Lex Luthor Sr., who created the company, Lex Corp. Rather than the charismatic bald businessman that was his father, we are given a stuttering, sociopathic genius with a head full of bushy hair.
This film seemed to be a developmental stage for Eisenberg’s Luthor, as he grows more and more cunning by the end. His potential was mostly hindered due to the weak dialogue for his character. Still, Eisenberg was able to create a dangerous villain that will soon become the serious and stern Lex Luthor many recognize.
The film’s soundtrack was beautifully orchestrated by film music icon Hans Zimmer and Junkie XL, who is credited for “Mad Max: Fury Road.” Building off of the music from “Man of Steel,” the duo was able to create music that was epic enough for a superhero throw down, and melancholy enough for the funeral of a child’s socialite parents. As Zimmer announced his retirement from superhero soundtracks, he leaves audiences with a lasting memory with this gem.
“Batman V Superman: Dawn of Justice,” is, simply, a film made for the fans. If you’re looking for action, this movie will capture your attention. If you’re looking for story, you’re going to need to focus closely. And if you’re looking for the World’s Finest to finally be in a film together, head to a theater now.
