After four years, fans can finally see Zack Snyder’s vision come to life in his version of ‘Justice League’.
A lot of you may not know this but the film is almost four hours long (3 hours 52 minutes to be precise), because it was initially planned as a four-part series.
So, how did it fare? Did the film get the justice it truly deserved? Here’s my honest review:
#1 Passable CGI effects
Thankfully, your eyes will be spared from the traumatising and weird Superman upper lip CGI in ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’.
I mean, who could ever forget the cringe-fest in Joss Whedon’s version? Not only that it had horrible CGI effects and bad colour/lighting, which probably made everyone question whether it was the cinema’s fault or was the movie actually dull or dark, but it also felt like a joke to fans that expected more.
The CGI in the latest film had tremendous improvements but I wouldn’t equate it to be up to par as Marvel’s. Some scenes still had some questionable CGI but it isn’t so bad that it’ll haunt you for the rest of your life.
#2 Characters get some upgrade
He had a total wardrobe change from a meh armour shielding on his pruny self in the original movie to a new shiny one which, to be honest, looked like someone got bored and decided to make one out of stapler bullets.
His face, however, does bring the scare factor and he, overall, is a worthy opponent this time around, but sans his new armour, he’s still the same dry, pruny villain.
Then, Darkseid makes his debut at some point in the film, which you can’t help but to wonder if his is Thanos’ half brother.
His built and face kinda resembles the former holder of the Infinity Stones, which made us question if DC took a page out of MCU's character design playbook.
There were also the introduction of several new characters such as Martian Manhunter, Iris West, Vulko, and Ryan Choi in the #SynderCut, and that, to me, is a surprise.
As for character arcs, this time around, we get to see more backstories and screen time for Cyborg, Aquaman, and The Flash.
And also, Barry Allen redeemed himself during the climax of Zack Snyder’s version and we’re happy to see that other characters are finally getting the spotlight they deserve.
#3 Is this a new scene?
As you know, ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’ is almost twice as long as Whedon’s version; so, many were wondering what could the new scenes be and if they are absolutely key or necessary to the storyline.
The answer is yes and no.
Several characters’ arcs were essential in explaining why they reacted in a certain way and Snyder gave them a chance to tell their own stories.
I have to note that the fight scene against Steppenwolf in the end was definitely better than its predecessor, but some parts were definitely too long and felt repetitive.
But the worse crime of all in this film is feeling like I’m being held hostage for four hours and I can’t leave until I’ve watched it until the end.
In my opinion, they should’ve gone with the initial plan of a four-part series. At some point, you’ll lose focus and get distracted for a while before delving back into the film.
Also, was I the only one who felt somewhat lost watching the last 30 minutes of the ‘epilogue’, which, honestly, was poorly sequenced, causing some confusion as it contrasts with what just happened a few minutes before?
It's like, one minute this fella is on the good side, the next minute he's with the bad guys and no context was given.
Come on, make up your mind!
On the bright note, many were impressed with Jared Leto's performance as Joker in the end, but I was definitely unimpressed by the scene being in this film as it felt out of place despite him doing a good job.
No offence, Jared Leto; it's not you, it's the film.
Verdict
To conclude, the whole thing felt like you as if you had an extra few hours to turn in your final project, which you’ve completed so eloquently but you decided to go the extra mile and end up over doing it, which subsequently ruins it just because you wanted to impress your teacher so badly.
While it's a good attempt with better CGI and storyline, some things shouldn't have made the cut.
Zack Snyder probably had plenty of ideas for ‘Justice League’ but it was far too ambitious to shove it all in a four-hour cinematic experience.
Here comes the most important question: was it better than Joss Whedon’s version? Yes.
Will I watch it again? No.
I have to say this though: for DC and Zack Snyder fans, this is probably a treat for you.
Rating:
You can stream ‘Zack Snyder’s Justice League’ on HBO Go, on-demand via the Astro Ulti box or on Astro Go now.