Saturday, April 2, 2016

Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice

First question on everyone's lips regarding "Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice" is usually, "Is it better than 'Man of Steel?'"
Yes, yes it is.
Next question is usually, "is it a good movie?"
No, not really.
While the movie does fix many of the things I felt were wrong with its predecessor, a whole host of other things have taken their place like Hydra heads. For example, the Superman supporting cast were completely pointless in the first movie, but this time around, they certainly have a more active role and even, dare I say it, are quite funny in some instances. In that same vein however, is the insufferable madman who people are debating is really Lex Luthor, played by Jesse Eisenberg. Jesse messed up and just made his own rendition of the Joker, with so much giddiness being tied together with barely hidden malice.
Ben Affleck is super (har har) as both Batman and Bruce Wayne. While that is a plus, this Batman has been in action far longer than the other film incarnations so he's a bit more brutal, battle-weary, and just not a nice guy, and his Bruce Wayne isn't as suave or mysteriously charismatic as previous versions. Best film Batman we've seen in a long time, and almost every interaction he has with other characters is great chemistry. Prime amongst these interactions is Gal Godot as Diana Prince, Wonder Woman. Wonder Woman's presence in this movie was awesome. Some people believe she didn't have enough characterization, saying she's still just a glorified cameo, but this really wasn't her movie. Her purpose was to be introduced to the audiences and to show what a badass warrior she is; it's an introduction, not an in-depth look at her.
And oh look! Superman's in this movie! Nobody really cares...because like before, the religious symbolism of him is all there is to him. We get it Snyder! You think he's Jesus! Stop!
My own personal philosophy on whether a movie is good or not is how much enjoyment was felt during the viewing of it. And the funny thing is, this movie seems to be made with the DC fans in mind, to cater and enrage them all in one fell swoop. So as a DC fan, I enjoyed all the references and the hints of things to come, but as a movie fan, so much could've been left out to make it a more condensed, less preachy, and enjoyable movie.
For funny yet spoilery synopsis disguised as a trailer, go here.
When this movie is so big that even Deadpool and Hawkeye HAVE to point out it's coming months in advance.
And now spoilery stuff for further reactions: