Why Zack Snyder’s Justice League Was Better Than the Original Release

For years, fans of the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) have been debating which version of Justice League is superior: Zack Snyder's Justice League (referred to as “Snyder’s Cut”) or the 2017 reshot version by Joss Whedon (referred to as “Whedon’s Cut”). While both versions offer unique aspects, Zack Snyder’s revision significantly enhances the overall film experience, addressing numerous plot holes, strengthening character development, and enhancing visual effects.

Comparing the Versions

Zack Snyder’s Cut lasts a generous 4 hours and 2 minutes, whereas the 2017 release, re-edited by Joss Whedon, is a more concise 2-hour runtime. The extra 120 minutes of footage in Snyder’s version reveal much more story depth, particularly the backstory of key characters. For instance, the introduction to Snyder's Cut is an immediate continuation of the battle between Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, and Doomsday. This filmic decision not only enhances the pacing but also provides a more cohesive narrative framework. Whedon’s version, on the other hand, omits essential storyline elements, making it less engaging and more disjointed.

Extended Scenes and Better Visuals

Snyder’s Cut benefits from the inclusion of extended battle scenes. For example, the sequence with Superman’s death during the battle awakens the Mother Boxes, which is a crucial plot point. This moment not only enriches the plot but also sets the stage for future events. Additionally, consider the scene where Cyborg, using his technological prowess, helps a poor family in need. While this may seem mundane, it adds an element of heart that is often absent in superhero films focused solely on action. The introduction of Barry Allen (The Flash) features a humorous yet touching moment where he saves Iris from a car crash, only to ruin his shoes in the process. These moments flesh out the characters and add emotional weight to the film, making the heroics more grounded and relatable.

Character Depth and Humor

The characters in Snyder’s Cut are significantly more developed. Intent on fixing the holes in the original DCEU, Snyder meticulously crafted scenes that highlight character development. The argument between Batman and Wonder Woman about using the Mother Box to revive Superman, which was omitted in Whedon’s version, gives the audience a better understanding of the characters' motivations and dynamics. Moreover, the presence of a black suit for Superman and the significant upgrades in battle sequences, such as Superman’s fight against Aquaman, Wonder Woman, and Batman, showcase a more intense and cohesive battle experience. The humor in Snyder's Cut is also more refined; for example, the interaction between Flash and Cyborg when they dig up Superman’s grave is both humorous and poignant, adding depth to their relationships.

Character Fates and Storylines

Snyder’s Cut demonstrates a continuous and consistent dark tone throughout the film. This is particularly evident in the post-credits sequence, which shows a future where the Justice League has been defeated. This darker, more realistic storyline contrasts sharply with the 2017 version, which relies heavily on heroics and fails to capture the true scope of the character arcs. The Dark Knight Theme referenced from Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice and the Knightmare sequence are seamlessly integrated, making for a more immersive experience. The ending, where the Justice League fails, sets up a more significant plot twist that Whedon’s version simply couldn’t achieve.

Flaws and Consistency

While Snyder’s Cut is a significant improvement, it is not without its flaws. The pacing can be slow, with too much emphasis on slow motion. Sequences such as Aquaman’s departure from the isolated village in the mountains and Steppenwolf’s interrogations are unnecessary and detract from the action. Moreover, the inclusion of numerous plot holes is a significant issue. For example, the mother box of Atlantis’ location is not adequately explained, and the characters’ actions, such as leaving the Mother Box unguarded, lack logical consistency. Additionally, the reveal of Martian Manhunter’s identity, while welcome, raises more questions. The reason for his immediate involvement in the mission remains unclear, given the scale of the global threat.

Conclusion

Despite its flaws, Zack Snyder’s Justice League stands as a superior re-imagination of the original release. The enhanced character development, improved visual effects, and the fixed plot holes make it a more compelling and cohesive film. While Whedon’s version had its merits, Snyder’s vision bestows a richer and more satisfying narrative experience. Fans may still debate which version is the better, but no one can deny the significant improvements made by Zack Snyder in his director’s cut.