Batman v Superman V Fear Culture v Media Power (Director Project)

[@johandrytenias1725]

That's why Bruce in Zack Snyder's Justice League is turned into a man of faith

[@Theyungcity23]

And that faith is why they are all screwed in the epilogue. Typically Batman has a plan to stop every super human. He doesn’t trust anyone.

[@johandrytenias1725]

@@Theyungcity23 that's interesting. At least it worked for now

[@sunnykinght7587]

Faith Alfred Faith

[@vyvietthai2000]

@@Theyungcity23 kinda interesting that these idealism being stretch and put on the consequences that lead to different circumstances.

[@jynxce]

@@Theyungcity23 By that logic, why does he even need a JL when he can solo everthing? Maybe he had some anti-boom tube, motherbox, apokolypse alien spray somewhere in his McGuffin-styled utility belt.

[@porassrivastava8242]

I watched MoS as a 13 year old and kept thinking "damn a lot of people died, partially because of Superman too I think" Then I saw Superman being questioned and targeted by the media in BvS and I thought "oh so that was the point Clark Kent hasn't really become Superman yet". Feels so weird that a lot of people missed out on that concept.

[@RbkARI]

There was a lot of controversy from fans regarding the destruction in MoS. I honestly don't think they were intending to address the destruction before that, judging by the ending of MoS. Of course, I could be wrong, but I doubt it.

[@freakingreninja7790]

Exactly.

[@KabbalahSherry]

@@RbkARI - Nah, Zack had a whole 5 movie arc planned out. We were always supposed to get the story we got. And what a story it was too. Way ahead of it's time. Far too mature & over the heads of the average caveman crowd. 🙄 lmao

[@Duiker36]

@@KabbalahSherry You're exactly the kind of person that Snyder was condemning in BvS, just so you know.

[@igbotimehopper64yearsago46]

I was 12 and thought the same

[@foolwriter]

I remember being so angry at this movie for not being what I wanted it to be, and being a lifelong comic collector, Superman fan, and critic of The Dark Knight Returns, I was HET UP about it. Then I remember talking to a friend who had no real knowledge of or affinity for comics who saw it and thought it was a very deep, enjoyable adventure movie about reactions to trauma. Amazing how a new perspective can change the way you see things... Anyway, I very much enjoyed this one.

[@LilacSreya]

It all depends on a person’s perspective. I’m like that friend, and think like what you said they did. Before this movie I didn’t know much about comics, moreover I actively dislike comics and the “superhero genre”, I don’t watch or like Marvel. I HAVE seen, read, and known enough about them to make this opinion, of course. I had no preconceived notions about the film or characters, nothing that “I wanted to be”, and so I LOVED this movie. Since then, I have come to know more about comics, superheroes, watched more Marvel... And my opinion is still the SAME. I love this movie, still don’t like superheroes/comics. lol That’s just my personal preference.

[@Tim_TerninatorSeed]

I went into the film as a huge Batman fan, enjoyed some if not all of the marvel films and thought man of steel was 7/10 good, but was sceptical about bringing these two characters together in one film and wasn’t sure how it would work. I loved the film and saw it twice. I couldn’t believe the negative reaction by many and was so disappointed at the obvious panic it caused WB when I saw Justice League and the change in tone.

[@Aisha_Luv]

I watched it with very little knowledge at the time and I still thought the ending was super week and that everything was solved by plot happening rather than any character desicions. its not as horrible as people paint it, but it aint great either.

[@muchanadziko6378]

what's there to critic about DKR? Even so to such a degree to call it "lifelong"

[@Rexai89]

Damn. You actually made me care for superman and his struggles...something that no other piece of media has ever managed to do, because the answer to all of his problems ist always "use one of your powers better". Thank you for that!

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

Thanks! And I highly recommend reading All-Star Superman, Earth One and What's Funny about Truth Justice and the American way, they all explore Superman dealing with some form of anxiety as opposed to physical conflicts!

[@thomasschreiner527]

@@ImplicitlyPretentious All Star Superman saved my life.

[@Dr.GameYT]

@@thomasschreiner527 I'm genuinely curious as to how?

[@connorthepom]

Man of steel helped me see superman differently

[@darkbrandon8431]

@@ImplicitlyPretentious Did you watch Superman vs the elites? If you did there is no need to read the comic book. lol

[@Mmm-nj5dk]

Even though its been 2 yrs since this video came out a small correction: BvS is not like Civil War........its the other way around.......Civil War is like BvS........cause BvS was literally written, shot, and released first.

[@TwinsofDestruction]

You mentioned how Lex Luthor in BvS doesnt resemble the comics, meanwhile his interpretation was taken from Superman Birthright, aswell as many other comics. He has 80 years of history, but BVS Lex was pretty good in that regard. overall, I really enjoyed this video.

[@The80sWolf_]

Yes he is the old school Lex mixed up with the Birthright looking younger Lex. His role would not have been much changed with another actor. But rather leaning more to the non-Birthright look.

[@Maikigai]

Something about this movie, too, is that though both have already had their origins, this is in a way a "rebirth" for all of the DC heroes (except for Cyborg and Flash who get their origins in JL). Superman began by defending the earth against Zod, but then after a year of being active, the world starts to turn on his existence leaving him with an identity crisis and choosing to quit. Bruce has been inactive for perhaps decades and is then spurred to don the cape and cowl again as a final act to take down earth's greatest threat (in his eyes). Diana gave up after WWI and had been inactive, however, when Doomsday appeared, all three worked together to defend the world once again. JL initiated them all coming together with literal rebirth for Superman, a Batman and Wonder Woman with a newly discovered purpose, Flash finding a place to fit in and Cyborg also having a rebirth and discovery of self. It's not the traditional origin stories we are used to, but they are all origin stories. It's the "hereafter". They've all already had origins, but they didn't begin their real journey's until much later, or at least, they started, stopped and began again. It's different, but it's still great.

[@Fenris30]

Where is it ever stated in the Movie that Batman has been Inactive? Where did this Assumption come from?

[@Maikigai]

@@Fenris30 it’s like xokirei said, the young cop has never known about Batman but the older one did. However, even Alfred noted that he seemed to be doing things differently than before, operating under “new rules” which obviously began around the time BvS began (excluding the Man of Steel recap a year prior). Likewise, this version is very clearly the “Dark Knight Returns” version which was the story of Bats coming out of retirement. Who knows, maybe I’m wrong, but there’s more evidence supporting my claim.

[@lambert2332]

@@Maikigai he is not implied to have been inactive. He does, however, operates in a more brutal fashion.

[@doodlebob1061]

Very underrated comment. Everything you said was 100% accurate and I never thought about it like this until reading this comment. Very good points man

[@incognitomode3306]

Totally right. That's one of the great things that Snyder does. He adds variations to a character without changing their origin but giving them more impact.

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

Alright, so the experimentation phase is over, after the WandaVision videos I’ve landed on a solid and reliable essay structure, where its Literature review -> Analysis/ summary -> Findings/ Discussion. So it's a film analysis sandwiched in a social science essay, this allows me to balance it differently essay to essay. I’m also trying to be more strategic with the musical choices, rather than just being ambience, I'm hoping the mood can help explain my point and transition the ideas (similar to Adam Curtis documentaries). This is also part of the Director Project, where a bunch of smaller Film essayists get together to talk about a film director in our own unique ways, March is on Zack Snyder: kzbin.info/aero/PL_XBsckzagj1SqyxOgvjkACSkrvZ-Mj5u

[@daniellevy2272]

As much literature as possible man, you're awesome

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

@@daniellevy2272 Thanks! I'm also workng on ways to talk about it without it either seem irrelevant or boring! :)

[@daniellevy2272]

@@ImplicitlyPretentious Never did. Always find you videos heart warming and smart yet funny 😁

[@rayg2724]

Yessir, love it!!

[@uchihabomber1296]

Cool

[@Whaddayamean13]

I think BvS deals with fanboy culture on superheroes in a meta way. We see everybody freaking out about Superman and debating about him with such vitriolic aggression. The idea of a superhero movie being “good” simply because it’s popular is critiqued in the film. This is why Superman does for Earth despite the entire world hating him. A real hero does what’s right regardless of who likes him for it.

[@StarryDrukhari]

As for the CIA thing, I'd imagine that they covered up as much as possible since it was "James Olson" who triggered the warlord by showing up with a bug in his camera. So even if they knew what really happened, they let Superman take the rap that rightfully belonged to them.

[@dr.yonkers5181]

not to mention they fired a missile at friendlies lmao

[@StarryDrukhari]

@@dr.yonkers5181 Exactly. The CIA nearly killed them all before Supeman stopped them.

[@marocainforlife]

yep it's explicitly said by Swanwick in the movie, the CIA knows the truth but they ain't saying shit because they weren't supposed to be there in the first place. Also implied by the warlord at the start of the movie

[@RockStationForChrist]

I really appreciate this detail, but I also felt that since Luthor planned this whole thing, he probably has a grip on the CIA as a whole. Who knows? Maybe he wanted them to send a rocket as a way to keep their mouths shut? It wouldn't surprise me that the man who knows about Superman's inability to see through lead would also have dirt on CIA personnel. I just love how layered these movies are.

[@ptolemeeselenion1542]

As usual.

[@katherinealvarez9216]

18:14 Bruce: Yes, I did that, but to be fair to me, that's how I make most of my friends.

[@atreestump]

"AT&T's Warner Media's Warner Brothers Zack Snyder's Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice: Ultimate Edition 2016 is a bit like Schrodinger's Cat..." That has to be the best opening of any video essay I've seen in recent memory 🤣

[@IamJoshuaElijahReese]

11:11 “Go on record.” “Fuuuuuuuck no.” Harry Lennix is great.

[@NemoLafond]

I’m not much of a DC film fan, all things considered, but I’m always happy to see a notification for your videos. Great as usual!

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

Aww thanks! I was expecting like 2 views, so I'm so happy and flattered you clicked on anyways! :) :)

[@manleeman5212]

I'm a huge DC fan, and I'm not a big fan of DC films either lol.

[@sunnykinght7587]

@@manleeman5212 I'm sorry but your not a dc fan if you don't like the movies

[@ninjanibba4259]

@@sunnykinght7587 that makes no sense, they can be a fan and not like the execution of the movies, and I can understand where they are coming from, DC doesn’t always get it right and they have more misses than hits

[@bboiblack1948]

@@ninjanibba4259 'it right' meaning the type of dc films they want. As if there are 10 different types of superman books on the market right now, half of which these ppl wouldn't like, execution and tone wise. DC fans are notorious for being close minded in that a film is good or bad based on if it falls in line with their pre conceptions. Reviews like these actually show what is going on in a film beyond the 'did he smile' stuff most of these fans are fixated on. Never thought I'd see This page actually get into one of these films, strange given they clearly attempt more sub text and cultural commentary than thor god lands on earth and fun ensues.

[@yael50523]

It's mind-blowing that this movie is still divisive af.

[@Lsd1021]

Honey, drop everything! Implicitly Pretentious dropped a video!

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

😊😊😊

[@danterose6673]

Me driving home getting honked at in traffic for listening instead of driving

[@isaacphoenix9200]

I watch a ton of content on KZbin, a ton of writing videos, a lot of good writing channels. This is my favorite.

[@SteveBrant55]

@@isaacphoenix9200 Same!!!

[@isaacphoenix9200]

@@SteveBrant55 It helps me greatly understand osycology and writing, both for myself and for others.

[@robertangus616]

Luthor is the main villain of Batman v Superman but Batman is the antagonist and unlike Iron Man in Captain America: Civil War, the audience is not expected to sympathize with Bruce the same way they are with Tony. Steve and Clark are the protagonists because they are the ones who act as heroic and selfless whereas Tony and Bruce are obsessed with fear, Tony wants to be overseen by the government because he feels guilty over creating Ultron and Bruce wants to kill Clark because his paranoia towards the God-tier superhero

[@megamanxhunter]

Well Batman always was a paranoid person in the comics.

[@robertangus616]

@@megamanxhunter I know, Batman is a bigger paranoid asshole than Nick Fury

[@madkabal]

@@robertangus616 his paranoia often his a point though.

[@macmcleod1188]

I red Batman comics for close to 30 years and I never thought of him as paranoid. I thought of him as prepared. Paranoia is irrational. Being prepared is rational.

[@xokirei]

@@macmcleod1188 to be fair, plenty stories prove bruce is irrational in his mistrust of others. like in tower of babel, there's nothing rational about forming contingencies for your friends and not telling them. especially when those friends otherwise would've ended up trusting you and understanding like clark giving bruce kryptonite, as opposed to the other members of the league who are now mistrusting of bruce in return

[@JS-jg7iv]

I know so many people complain about the portrayal of Batman in this movie, particularly about him killing, but for me Batman in this movie is the “live long enough to see yourself become the villain” version of Batman. It’s the perfect Batman necessary to feel he can take on Superman (and ultimately bring Batman back from his unhinged period, such as in ZL justice league). Fear and media is integral to this aspect of Batfleck

[@stephenramsey5585]

I've felt for a while now that if you disregard The Dark Knight Rises you can use the first two Nolan movies to lead directly into the Snyder films, both thematically and storywise. "Live long enough to see yourself become the villain" is so much more cutting when it happens to Bruce and he doesn't realize it.

[@AceOfSevens]

The problem with that is we're still supposed to like Batman. He's basically Travis Bickle with money here. Possibly a compelling character, but not a good basis for a franchise.

[@stephenramsey5585]

@@AceOfSevens I don't think we are meant to like Batman here, I think that's a lot of the point. We assume we're meant to like him because he's always presented as the hero in everything he's in, but in this he's an antagonist that sees the error of his ways. He should be interesting, relatable even, but not necessarily likable, not for this story, and he's not.

[@AceOfSevens]

@@stephenramsey5585 For most of the movie, sure, but how is a Batman franchise supposed to work like that? They handle it by trying to turn him around in the last 20 minutes, which doesn't work at all.

[@stephenramsey5585]

@@AceOfSevens the Batman flim isn't meant to come though until after Justice League, by which time Batman has had his redemption arc and got the audience back on-side

[@seymourkrelborn4780]

I was just binging BvS essays and then this was uploaded lol

[@separate_entity001]

I never hated this movie, it wasn't bad. It just felt disappointing towards me. I'm excited to see your essay. :-)

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

Aww thanks! I hope you have the patience to survive my irritating voice for an half hour

[@separate_entity001]

@@ImplicitlyPretentious your voice is satisfying to me because I enjoy your work

[@separate_entity001]

I finished it a few minutes ago and I loved the way you defined the themes of this story.

[@TheDarkAdventure]

This is one of the fairest shakes I've ever seen someone give BvS. It's great. Thank you.

[@amin2636]

I watched it at 12 and I loved it, watched it yesterday and still loved it, altho I mean the ultimate edition

[@buffknight2000]

I can tell your not a fan of these particular films but the fact you deconstructed the film in an essay like this is very admirable and I respect that it’s a beautiful video

[@ngasieta]

It's not a plothole. I think that the fact that the military (maybe also the CIA) saw what really happened in Nairobi and remained silent in letting Superman take the blame, may just be a demonstration of how the deep state and the military industrial complex work. Fact that the general was able to get info and confirm that the bullet was made by LexCorp, but was unwilling to go on the record about it, also hints at LexCorp maybe having other dealings and contracts with the government. I mean, why does Lex have the ear of senators? In the real world, Lockheed Martin or Raytheon or Halliburton or Boeing or any other defense contractor has the same sway as LexCorp had in the fcking movie. The movie talks about the power of media, fear expressed through the rejection of Superman etc. and I don't think it's a big leap that it also hints at deep state coverups and corporate influence on governments.

[@ngasieta]

To drive home the corporate influence part: why does a private corporation like LexCorp get authorization to examine and experiment on Zod's body? Not one senator has the power or authority to do that in the real world, unless he has support from a number of others and certain other facets of the government. So while the movie may not explicitly tell you all this, you can use your own reasoning to fill in the blanks.

[@supernerd8527]

That's the brilliant writing of Chris Terrio layering the real-world power games into his scripts.

[@StephenHarperRaptagon]

In the end, the movie is a colossal undertaking that exceeded the reach of it's creator. Much like the double down

[@Fenris30]

No it exceeded the reach of it's distributers not it's creator. Snyder knew exactly what he created, Warner Bros did not.

[@Sci-Fi_Freak_YT]

This movie to me is a personal representation of the things I love. God vs man, masterminds who will play with powers unknown. Complex stories and highly detailed worlds. Symbolism and hints towards classic stories of old. Battles so beautiful that it looks like a living painting. And music so powerful and evocative that it stays with you forever no matter how much you loved or hated everything else. This movie is a work of art no matter how you look at it, a masterpiece that was released at the worst possible time.

[@fernandoerbin6751]

Ah, a kindred spirit. I agree with every single thing you said.

[@sandilemlambogoblination420]

Absolutely a masterpiece, great comment

[@anenemystand5582]

It's a shame it does none of those things well

[@EduFabolous]

oh a man of culture

[@yashodeep1003]

Another great perspective to this masterpiece!!!!!!!!!!! This single movie just keeps giving!!!!!!!!!!

[@SABNISTANMAY]

It's so great to see people finally appreciating this film for what it is or what it's trying to convey rather than bitching about it not being like Marvel. Snyder is a phenomenal visualizer, very few know how to frame a scene like him, James Cameron has even called him the creator of a new cinematic language. The man certainly made a superhero film ahead of it's time, especially when there was a written success formula of how these movies should be made.

[@nahthanksno8299]

Lmao or Snyder is just trash, which requires a shit ton less mental gymnastics but you do you bro. BVS still sucks

[@The80sWolf_]

I think people can find comments I did back in 2016 saying more people will like it with time, and some need to rewatch it and for sure the Ultimate cut version.

[@mc_zittrer8793]

Ehhh, the movie never settled well with me, but it not being like Marvel was never among the reasons for it. I mean Bryan Cranston was originally approached to be Luthor and he laughed them out of the room for it after reading the screenplay. I agree, Snyder got a flair for visuals, but he shouldn't be allowed anywhere near a typewriter.

[@Drifter1989]

@@mc_zittrer8793 Snyder didn’t write BvS though. He co-wrote the story for ZSJL and Wonder Woman though which were positively received. Snyder’s just hit or miss.

[@jasenjacobs1365]

I love that you managed to cut to the quick of what Snyder was awkwardly trying to say. I always feel like he's a dude who wants to be deep but just never quite gets it.

[@infinitedm5396]

To me, I think it's a problem in communicating the thematic ideas. Like... his thematic ideas in Sucker Punch are beautiful and interesting. But because they were so easily obscured, people took it at face value. It's both... terrible and good? Like.. I'm not sure how much more I'd enjoy his films if he was more direct.

[@garvin356]

That's the point, he is a very eccentric person and his movies challenges you to apply some bit of abstract thought.

[@SteveBrant55]

I've watched a lot of your videos, and this is THE BEST! Thank you for showing me things about this film I never saw before... Also... THANK YOU FOR LOVING AMY ADDAMS SO MUCH. Your tribute to Lois and Clark towards the end was heart breaking.

[@katherinealvarez9216]

6:19 so it's kind of how the fight scene with the space monster in GotG Vol 2 title sequence is about the theme of family and parenting?

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

Yeah totally!

[@katherinealvarez9216]

@@ImplicitlyPretentious cool

[@rio_nakayama]

I LOVE that Batman MURDERS PEOPLE, I love that batman is hopeless, not for the reason that you might think, like it's cool or something. It is because it's wrong. Basically I love broken Batman like we've never seen before in a big screen.

[@edinalewis4704]

I loved this movie, I was so sad that so many people seemed to miss what it was saying. Thank you for laying it out so eloquently :)

[@pinklemons7254]

Thx for uploading again! I love your videos. Especially since your videos that talk about the acts of a story is helping me to improve my story.

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

Thanks! I'm so glad the act structure of these essays aren't getting tiring!

[@bertanosomething9246]

Why does it feel like I haven’t watched a video of yours in months? Lovely video by the way.

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

Aww thanks! It's probably cuz I used to upload 2 videos a week before getting burned out :p

[@SteveBrant55]

@@ImplicitlyPretentious I hope you're feeling better now. This video is so great, I'm going to tweet it and tag Gal, Ben and others. Will put it on Vero in the hope that Zack sees it.

[@stranger59]

To prepare for the SnyderCut, I watched a 28 minute commercial for the DoubleDown.

[@ItsMeHarry]

Using a good ol' Double Down analogy...ok, you got me interested. Now for a Big Tasty parallel

[@ronanlina7909]

After I watched BvS for the first time I never stopped to think about Amy Adams

[@adammyers7383]

Basically, Snyder is extremely smart and has a lot of interesting things to say, but his execution is flawed. It’s the age-old story, ain’t it?

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

He's also really ripped for some reason

[@studynot757]

People really don’t like slo-mo? To me his movies are age old MYTHIC tales given life in a visual medium. Honestly? I’d LOVE To see Synder tackle the Iliad or Odyssey.

[@jyotektosgaimur]

@@studynot757 that actually seems interesting. Also since those stories often focus on the idea of stories themselves, which is also an idea Snyder likes to implement in his films.

[@jjamv9373]

@@ImplicitlyPretentious For real though, gotta respect those gains, say what you will about him as a director but the man’s jacked

[@siddharthakvr5154]

@@ImplicitlyPretentious Snyder is a HUGE fan of epics. Of grand themes and ideas. Not that I hate it or anything, but marvel has dumbed down the audience to a degree where superheroes always have to escapist movies

[@UmarFarooq-fp9qo]

Man, you made me cry for bvs

[@RichardH.MysticJessieFan6425]

U don't owe this world a thing. The best quote

[@thedetective9631]

I love BvS and there’s a lot to love about it. this is one of those films where you have to love it for what it is not what you want it to be. going into this film with the wrong mentality will make you miss out on something truly great.

[@truepotential206]

Would love to see a behind the scenes video. Especially on your writing process but also on your homework and editing process as well :)

[@wheeler6768]

I loved this film. The constant human perspective really elevates this film in my mind. We don't see such a grounded take on superhero films often #RestoreTheSnyderverse

[@RockStationForChrist]

Amen to that. BvS is a great deconstruction of our heroes, which makes their elevation in ZSJL all the more rewarding. I say, #RestoreTheSnyderVerse

[@KittMcKay]

Ma Kent's words to Clark in response to his "The world's too big" - "then make it small" - can be applied in a more meta manner; the phrase "it's a small world" intrinsically implies that by knowing people, to the point of familiarity by having a common point of connection, meaning we can overcome fear by developing a sense of community and familiarity.

[@williemaz6153]

Yo Affleck, You was the bomb as Batman!

[@tyrontheconqueror6625]

I'm gonna watch this movie again thinking its gonna be amazing with this new found lens to see it through. I probably won't like it though. But your insight and thoughtful analysis makes me want to see if my opinion will change anyway. Great video. I love your videos cause you take in-depth looks at media regardless of their perceived quality. I like that a lot.

[@owen_asztalos]

I’m not even a Snyder shill, but honestly this movie is pretty damn solid

[@theidiotphilosopher2991]

This may not be the right place for this but, much has been said about Superman's lack of dialogue in this film. I feel it's a shame to overlook Henry Cavill's powerful emoting. His non verbal communication is so haunting.

[@Whaddayamean13]

Unfortunately, it’s just a fact that viewers today are generally only accepting of the lowest common denominator in movies. Make me laugh, make me fork over my platinum credit card and it’s “good.”

[@Maikigai]

I in all honesty can not fathom how people can dislike this movie. It was beautiful, thought-provoking and challenged the norms of both Batman and Superman as most people have seen them since the 80's. These movies have been what I've been waiting three decades for and finally have gotten and everyone craps on them without any real substance to their reasons. I'm glad the Snyder-cut is coming out because I think it's forcing fans to give them a second chance which is causing there to be a mass-awakening to them brilliance of these stories. I couldn't be happier.

[@Flaris]

Honestly I never believe anyone that says the first sentence here. Not liking this movie isn’t some incomprehensible thing. A blight against a movie so perfect that no one could not enjoy it. I can see why people enjoyed it. I didn’t. It was bloated, often boring, did a terrible job with the characters and had someone pretending to play Jim Carrey’s Riddler pretending to play Lex Luthor. All the power to you for enjoying it. But it’s a pretty flawed movie. Being willfully blind to that does no one any good. A lot of films and shows I like are flawed. Doesn’t hurt anyone to accept that and willingly understand why others dislike it.

[@Maikigai]

@@Flaris And see, I don’t believe any of your reasons for disliking the movie. I believe people had a hard time understanding it, therefore, they wrote it off as a bad, boring and poorly written movie. It isn’t any of those things. People hate (or fear, which doesn’t really apply here) what they don’t understand. So, yes, I 100% meant what I said; this movie was absolutely amazing and it is baffling that people disliked something so ingenious. I completely understand disliking something for creative differences, but I can’t accept writing something off simply because it is misunderstood. That is why I am happy that the Snyder-cut is coming out because it is forcing people to reassess and I’m being proven correct the more people come out with video essays and documentaries about the prior movies. Heck, I’ve even seen people admit that they had changed their minds after giving them a second chance. We aren’t watching Christopher Reeves, Burton, Nolan or anything that has come before... this is the Snyder-verse and it should be understood with that in mind.

[@Duiker36]

​@@Maikigai All of Snyder's films are bad. So if your requirement for liking the movie is contextualizing it in terms of liking all of Snyder's other movies, then I agree. It's a pretty good film in that context. If I'd never seen a movie other than a Snyder movie, I'd probably think BvS was pretty awesome, too. Unfortunately, though, I've watched The Matrix Reloaded, so alas I am incapable of appreciating the genius of Snyder.

[@legenwaitforitdary3508]

@@Duiker36 all of Snyder’s films are bad? I get not liking this movie but that is definitely not true I don’t get people like u who have such a hatred of Snyder lol would like to hear why watchmen 300 or even man of steel is so bad in ur eyes

[@DratItsMatt]

Only halfway but I wish I'd seen the film you saw

[@sbi168]

I adore this movie. Fantastic!

[@power279]

TILL TO THESE DAYS..THIS MOVIE STILL GETTING TALK ABOUT.

[@MrP4rker]

I watch all of your stuff. This one was fantastic.

[@ShinySephiroth1]

I still think that had the Snyderverse continued that it would have been revealed Lex Sr. faked his death and would have eventually returned, killing his son and taking his place as the menacing villain Lex is.

[@retroforager]

this is just such a beautiful video! the analysis and the montage at the end! thank you.

[@Chessheromusic]

Amazing work. This is the best video I've seen you do, You go in and try to understand every word and every set piece. An enormous amount of work for such Lil payofff. You are the example others need to respect what artists like Zach Snyder need to bridge the gap of vision to comprehension . beautiful

[@ragael1024]

I find it interesting how so many ppl hate his work because of his political view. He is a Libertarian, and he puts that into his movies. And ppl hate that about him. I never even realized. I just wanted to see a good story, action, drama and nice visuals. Am I a simpleton ? Probably. Not gonna be a movie critic, that's for sure. But i feel like knowing soooo much about things takes the joy of enjoying said things. It's like my parents would listen to a person playing a violin and enjoying it for real, while the violinist in me disagrees for a whole bunch of reasons. That Bach/Mozart/Beethoven etc is not played like that person did. But for the general audience it DOES NOT MATTER. They came to enjoy a spectacle, and they did. That person certainly did not play for an a-hole like me. Like it, or don't, don't be toxic about it. The end.

[@keshaponso2034]

Interesting points. Who's being toxic about it.

[@okdthefmv]

I've only ever watched this movie once but I think you've given me reason to revisit. Can't wait for your thoughts on the Zack Snyder JL cut.

[@vmaninc.761]

And this is exactly why I never bought into everybody's complaint about Henry Cavill. Being not good enough to play Superman and Why i'm so against him being replaced He played the character perfectly and is up there with the other legends that have played him so well such as tom welling and christopher reeves! 🔥💯😁😉👍

[@FATE522]

I think what I love about Batman v Superman Dawn of Justice is there are people who can see it as a war of American man vs the Abrahamic God, how the media has power over supernatural strength or simply about a broken hero vs hopeful hero and many more things.

[@hailkingrex]

I'm so happy when people choose to analyze this film. The Snyder trilogy, I believe, got shafted by theatrical cuts and people who were shocked by the tone and subject matter and never looked at it again. I did my own video essays on the Snyder trilogy if you wouldn't mind giving them a look. I think we came out with a lot of similar and different interpretations of the films

[@RLVRT]

Contrary to popular belief, the Lex Luthor in this film is actually akin to comic books. In particular, it is specifically derived from the Superman: Birthright story. The hair, the antics, the loneliness, the abuse from his father, and the twisty-turny plans to kill or bend Superman to his will.

[@umbrellaphantom]

With the mannerisms of max landis

[@ITSAULGONE]

I will forever love this portrayal of Lex Luthor. It's so perfect and culturally relevant. Mirrors our own sociopathic billionaires perfectly. Thank you, Jesse

[@Whaddayamean13]

Minus the growing up in Smallville and being Clark's friend, but yes I agree

[@Meme033094]

This was really good time to watch Synder Cut

[@SkatKat]

"Wonder Woman then drops in, like in a drop in drop out coop game", your snark on this video has been peak.

[@johnlindsay7301]

Kind of a brilliant analysis. Really great. Thanks for your time and efforts.

[@benbouffard1793]

YES! Been wondering why you took down your original video, but I'm glad to see you've tackled it again.

[@mookieblaelocker6504]

Oh lawd he back

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

Yeah, it was supposed to com out on monday, but I re-wrote the entire last section last minute and threw in the musical tribute, then yesterday I had a problem uploading so I got it out earlier today!

[@Ratnamrecommend]

While watching this video I realised one thing: What if Batman here represents the ugly side of vigilantism and the toll that it takes on a person's life?😳

[@itsmecaldo]

Batman also represents Xenophobia in it

[@subashpriyatharsanvlogs9831]

If you don't know before batman was the villain for about a good amount of time in this movie until he realize Superman is more human than him.

[@cceballo851]

@@itsmecaldo If you're referring to his hatred towards superman than yes, yes he did have that aspect towards him. but overall it wasn't so much that he was an alien or his race. Batmans fear was what Superman is capable of doing to humanity in terms of powers and that's it. nothing to doing with race at all. I wouldn't say he represents xenophobia but rather fear of logic. that superman can logically destroy the human race if he wanted to.

[@itsmecaldo]

@@cceballo851 yea thats what i meant.

[@zla3031]

wow this almost convinced me to wath BVS. Almost.

[@rikudoubapeck]

If you do watch the ultimate edition

[@markuskosmo]

Thanks for making this video! I have always found this movie alright, but you made me appreciate it quite a bit more. It's a frustrating movie for me, because on a surface level, it isn't what one would expect, and it is difficult to understand what is underneath. Once I understood it more here, it became a lot more satisfying, even though I still have a lot of complaints about the execution of the ideas! It's a 3.5/5 for me now instead of a 3/5, but I admire it more than I enjoy it.

[@iamnotfitforadventure8108]

Really needed this after the WandaVision episodes 💚💚💚

[@florato9387]

I'm still mad at this movie, but maybe a little less so after watching this vid. Thanks for this.

[@PuroSanJoBRS]

BvS is such a beautiful film. One of the best cinematic superhero films of all time! #RestoreTheSnyderverse #ZackSnydersJusticeLeague

[@possessorofgreatness7620]

Yup, its my favorite too, from begin to end it dont loses its grip in extended cut

[@optillian4182]

#LetTheSnyderverseStayDead

[@PuroSanJoBRS]

@@optillian4182 it’s coming bro not sorry. And it starts with the Ayer Cut 😎

[@optillian4182]

@@PuroSanJoBRS No.

[@kirbyppg]

Great video, just wanted to clear up some points you made because you asked a few questions that I have the answers to. When you asked "how does the government not know that Superman is innocent in the desert because they saw the mercenaries kill the soldiers?" The government, specifically the C. I. A., knows that Superman didn't kill the soldiers, as said by Secretary of Defense Swanwick (aka the Martian Manhunter). However, that's classified information, so as far as the media and committee are aware, Superman killed the soldiers, and the misinformation is further spread by Kahina Ziri under the instruction of Lex Luthor. They have no way of knowing that Superman didn't kill the soldiers. You also asked "why Superman didn't go looking for his mother or go fight Batman, going to Lois instead?" For Martha, my question to you is how would Superman know that Martha was kidnapped? He was in the mountains and came back to Metropolis shortly before the scene where Lex pushes Lois off his building. He'd have no idea that his mom was kidnapped. As for why he didn't fight Batman, Superman even said to Lex, "you think I'd fight him for you?" He has no interest in fighting Batman, and saving Lois takes priority. As for why the committee didn't put Kahina under witness protection, I have no idea why they didn't. Good video nonetheless!

[@shanonsnyder9450]

I never understood the Martha criticism. Superman is very powerful but he’s not omniscient. Does he just start blowing things up until he finds her? What if accidentally kills her?

[@tattltal]

I’d like to think that scene of the people reaching out to him on day of the dead has another meaning. Superman sees a crowd of skeletons while he is essentially immortal. He’s constantly saving people from death. I think Superman is struggling with the notion of his own godhood and how it separates him from everyone. But in the end, he dies.

[@d.harshan]

I agree with everything you've said but the Lex here isn't out of character at all, this version is the Birthright Lex, straight out of th comic pages. Otherwise, good essay though!🔥

[@OsSas3]

That's like saying: I got the Superman from Red Son in this movie where Superman is not russian, why do you complain? It's comic accurate. You semi-took (not the same) Lex from an mini-series and tried to used him as canon Lex over sixty/seventy years of the actual Lex Luthor.

[@d.harshan]

@@OsSas3 what? Just listen 23:58 here. He said he's nothing like the comics version, where Birthright Lex is the inspiration behind Jesse's Lex. The DCA and cartoon Lex isn't the only interpretation and that's what I've said. ???

[@OsSas3]

@@d.harshan What I mean is: Just cause there's some kind of interpretation (elseworld/not canon) from the character, it doesn't mean it's good. Like you said, the canon/usual Lex from comics it's WAY different from Birthright Lex. So he's correct. I wouldn't take the Batman that wrote Stan Lee and try to make it the main Batman, cause it sucks.

[@d.harshan]

@@OsSas3 this is one of those things where people's opinions are different from each other. Obviously he isn't the you wanted but I like this interpretation. I've always felt like just baldness and real estate isn't the only thing that defines Lex. Another complaint was Jesse's awkwardness. Like I've said this Lex was inspired from birthright with the essence of modern day nerdy multimillionaire. Plus Lex being the arc nemesis who brings together the Legion of Doom and solving the Anti life equation with the help of the Riddler seems more interesting to me than a Lex just there like all the other live action interpretations.

[@prophecygirl93]

Haven’t watched yet but I know it’s going to be good :)

[@sagemoderj1880]

Watching this video kinda gives me a different perspective about the whole movie. I've never thought about it the way you did. Flawed but enjoyable IMO.

[@brunoduff]

A 30-like min video about BvS? Liked even before watching

[@johnkingston1337]

6:54 - I just wanted to correct you on this issue: Why doesn't the US government just absolve Superman by providing evidence that he wasn't actually responsible for the massacring of civilians? I think it's funny that a lot of people have to question this since the answer is pretty obvious. The US government wouldn't too inclined to provide evidence on an event linked to their covert attempts to solicit friendly relations with an African war lord who is currently involved in a civil war in which the US government, publicly at least, is neutral. If they provided any evidence, for example, drone footage of the event, then that would incur further questions surrounding their actions. Why they were involved at all? Why did they authorise a missile strike on a civilian target? That would be extremely embarrassing for the government, destroy any diplomatic relations with the elected government and, like Peacemaker says, would cause an international incident, making them an international pariah. It's not hard. However, even if the US government did provide such evidence to absolve Superman, people would still ask the question: why is Superman getting involved military activities and interferring in geopolitics of foreign countries? Is he qualified to make decisions in this regard? Should he be regulated? We know he's only there for Lois but Superman can't explain this without exposing a massive weakness or a significant part of his personal life.

[@shanonsnyder9450]

He neutralized a powerful government weapon mid-flight. Government wouldn’t be too happy about that I would imagine. Allowing Clark to tarnish his own reputation would be a problem taking care of itself from the government’s point of view.

[@buka.a]

This movie was too deep and political for a comic book movie. This is why people hated it. They were expecting some kinda Marvel extravaganza, quips and jokes, and totally missed the point of the movie.

[@alistairaniceto9141]

again on point. thank you

[@HawkOfKrypton]

An expertly and brilliantly done essay! It’s so refreshing to see a film essayist talk about BvS in a more substantial way than endless ranting or complaints. It’s a shame you unfortunately still felt the need to insert some unnecessary digs here and there, I feel like this film has received enough of those by now. But literally everything else about your analysis was top notch! 🙌🏻

[@ImplicitlyPretentious]

Thanks! And the digs I make aren't intended to be complains, they're mainly used to either hide a musical transition or break up the flow, so my mono-tone voice has something more naturalistic to read! :)

[@HawkOfKrypton]

@@ImplicitlyPretentious That explains it! Sorry for misunderstanding then, I’m too used to malicious “take that” kind of jokes. Guess I fell into confirmation bias.

[@resikin]

What a beautiful analysis dedicated to such a beautiful epic!

[@syv6173]

i would love to see a version of the film where superman shouts "your an asshole!!!!!" as he dies to batman

[@chrisgreig98]

I never imagined I'd hear Batman v Superman being described as the KFC Double Down... But here we are.

[@victor6207-d6h]

Love it or hate it. The most talked about move online and in forums is BVS. Personally, one of the greatest movies made in our time.

[@siddharthakvr5154]

People hate what they don't understand

[@optillian4182]

You need to watch more movies.

[@kartikadewi3270]

@@optillian4182 you need to respect people's opinions.

[@bmpixy]

Forget batman v superman, I want the Double Down analysis.

[@muchanadziko6378]

the stats you showed about toy sales is very interesting. Even though Marvel is making billions in the box office and basically dominated the Superhero genre in the public's eye for the last 15 years, out of the 14 characters displayed on screen 6 are DC characters. Half of them aren't even A-listers. And if you add up the percentages DC beats Marvel without breaking a sweat.

[@mahabba7683]

WOw! Your video is so underrated!

[@fortheloveofcinema]

I disagree with anyone who says this film is a convoluted mess. Everything it does from worldbuilding to charcter motivations to visual motifs is in support of its themes. The statement the film wants to make is that we live in a society that is afraid of the unknown and allows that fear to turn us against each other, but we can do better. Ps. Thanks Implicitly Pretentious for coming back to BvS and even expanding on your previous thoughts. Whether someone is pointing out the flaws or pointing out its strengths I'm glad to see people having honest discussions about Snyder's works.

[@ΑΡΙΣΤΟΤΕΛΗΣΛΑΧΑΝΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ]

The theatrical cut is a convoluted mess The ultimate edition, however, that's a masterpiece

[@davornaglic7491]

Bvs ultimate edition is a cinematic masterpiece. Its perfect. The movie is ahead of its time. Zack snyder is ahead of his time. The majority hates this movie cuz they dont understand it.

[@Flaris]

In the end, even a movie I didn’t care for can be more interesting when broken down this way. Still wish it had been a better movie overall, but such is how it goes.

[@muchanadziko6378]

how is "I'll take you in without breaking you, which is more than you deserve" not-like -Superman? H eliterally pulls stuff like this every single episode in the DCAU. My favourite example is how he wants to see Dr Fate in "The Terror Beyond". So he goes to Dr Fate's tower, but can't enter. So he shouts "Fate! Are you there?", waits for literally 2 seconds and starts smashing the wall.

[@kylestephens4133]

WB tried to make a Superman "Marvel" movie before there was an MCU. It was called Superman Returns. It has been rightfully memory holed. Then Marvel created an expectation, among pop culture and its media, of what a superhero movie "should" be (simplistic, formulaic, superficial). Snyder's take is pretentious, but it is also cinematic in the way Scorcese would use the term.

[@sladechain573]

16:05 I don't know about that, coz Lex literally just started the clock, a couple of minutes ago, just moments before Superman said he's taking Lex in.

[@ironickrempt]

Yay a surprise video!

[@rustymixer2886]

Where do I order imax ultimate edition of bvs?

[@rustymixer2886]

Great video glad everyone hopping on our dceu train, better late than never plus Tony snapped mcu movies into meh...