Zack Snyder's Justice League

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By John Gregory

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SPOILER ALERT! YOU’VE BEEN WARNED!

This is the better version of the movie. Let me just say that plainly now. There’s sure to be articles and videos how Zack Snyder’s Justice League is the best/worst film ever made. Because, you know, there can’t be middle ground nowadays. I do not wish to use this whole review to talk about how the online community can be a difficult place to have nuanced discussion. It just didn’t feel right to ignore everything that preceded this release. At the end of the day, the movie is out so hopefully we can put down the torches and pitchforks. Instead of, you know, pointless poking at this bear until it gets so out of control we get to Ghostbusters (2016) and Star Wars: The Last Jedi levels of vitriol that even the sheer mention of this movie causes even the sanest, most rational human being to turn into a vessel of pure hatred and rage. Because, you know, that sucks.

Were I to review ZSJL in one sentence, it would be this: a Lord of the Rings style affair that, while more consistent in tone than the theatrical cut, still has the inherent failings of the early DCEU movies. I mean, this movie basically ends with the Justice League decapitating the villain and tossing his corpse on their boss’ doorstep. Just...yeesh. I understand the desire to not follow Marvel. But we’ve seen DC show more optimistic and accurate portrayals (Shazam!, Wonder Woman, Aquaman) without copying their competitor. But, first and foremost, this is Zack Snyder’s movie. And for all it’s problems I can respect that the guy made the movie he wanted in a world where blockbuster movies lean harder into trusted formulas.

Despite how dour I sound, the Snyder Cut does many things correct. Cyborg and Flash get fleshed out way more. The former is much more of a three dimensional character while the latter finds a better balance in his humor. The action is fast and intense. Even these darker interpretations are more optimistic and kinder than before. And this music? Chef’s kiss. If I’m being honest, this might be my favorite of Zack Snyder’s superhero movies. As opposed to the first two films, Man of Steel and Batman V Superman, this one shows more moments of genuine heroicness. Cyborg helping a poor family. Diana inspiring a group of young girls after an attack. Martian Manhunter consoling Lois Lane. Good stuff.

Now the big question: should you watch a 4 hour movie? If you’re a massive Snyder or DC fan, sure. I think you already have at this point. For everyone else, however, how should you proceed? I hate to say this but this’ll be a case by case basis. If you search online you can find how the movie is split up into chapters with their specific lengths spelled out. I say watch perhaps the first section and go from there. As with any movie or show or anything else people say you need to watch, remember that’s a bunch of malarkey. Do what works best for you.

Final wrap up: the movie is out. There are still numerous issues that continue from the previous entries but it’s notably better than what came before. Let’s just end it at that. There’s no need for the arguing to go further. It’s not what Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, or any other members of the Justice League would have wanted. Whatever you do, be kind. Be good. Be super.

One last aside: Batman has a vehicle in this called the Nightcrawler. What the hell? A nightcrawler isn’t a bat! It should have been named the Batcrawler. Or Nightbat! IS THERE NO JUSTICE IN THIS WORLD ANYMORE?!