Blue Beetle, released in 2023, has stirred significant discussion, particularly among Zack Snyder’s passionate fanbase. The film, starring Xolo Maridueña as the titular hero, introduces Jaime Reyes to the DC Universe, marking a fresh direction for the franchise.
However, the movie recently became the first DC film to receive a newly introduced label from Rotten Tomatoes, a distinction that hasn’t been well-received by Snyder’s loyal followers.
Many fans are expressing frustration because the film’s tone and style differ significantly from Snyder’s darker, more intense vision of the DC Universe. Further, the fact that Blue Beetle has no direct connection to Snyder’s work has only heightened the sense of disappointment among his supporters.
Zack Snyder Fans Disappointed as Blue Beetle Becomes First DC Film to Receive New Rotten Tomatoes Label
Zack Snyder’s tenure at DC Films was marked by a distinctive vision and a dedicated fanbase. However, his departure from the DC Extended Universe due to personal reasons left the franchise in a state of uncertainty. The subsequent release of Justice League under Joss Whedon’s direction further divided fans, leading to a growing movement to release Snyder’s original cut of the film.
In response to fan demand, Warner Bros. released Zack Snyder’s Justice League in 2021, which was met with critical acclaim and solidified Snyder’s status as a beloved figure within the DC fandom. But now another development has left Snyder fans disappointed as Blue Beetle earned a newly introduced Rotten Tomatoes label.
This has sparked discussions, especially among those loyal to Snyder’s vision who took to X to express their sentiments.
The movie was trash full of dumb mexican jokes and stereotypes, i was hyped for this movie but it bombed 🪲🪲🪲
— Berkowitz (@berkobank) August 21, 2024
But it was the worst performing DCEU film. You fail upwards at WB.
— Aaron Fischer – My Review (@ReviewFischer) August 21, 2024
We still ain't watching
— Philippe Njock (@NjockPhilippe) August 21, 2024
Lmao be serious
— César H. Sandoval (@TekkZero) August 21, 2024
in my bottom 3 for movies i watched that year
— flash ⚔️ (@Clapped32x) August 21, 2024
Rotten Tomatoes recently introduced a new accolade for its Verified Audience Score, called ‘Verified Hot.’ This designation is meant to complement the existing Certified Fresh label by highlighting films that not only receive critical acclaim but also resonate strongly with audiences.
To qualify for the Verified Hot label, a film must achieve a verified audience score of 90% or higher on the Popcornmeter and meet additional eligibility criteria. Blue Beetle, currently boasting a score of 91%, is one of the first to receive this new honor. Other films earning this distinction include A Man Called Otto, Deadpool & Wolverine, Elvis, and John Wick: Chapter 4, among others.
While this update has sparked some frustration among Zack Snyder’s loyal fans, the source of their displeasure is clear. They are unhappy that Blue Beetle has received recognition, as it deviates from Snyder’s darker vision for the DC Universe. Despite this, it’s important to highlight that Snyder himself was a wholehearted promoter of the film.
Zack Snyder Endorsed Blue Beetle Prior to Its Release
Zack Snyder and Warner Bros. had a tumultuous relationship. As the visionary behind the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), Snyder directed influential films such as Man of Steel (2013), Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), and Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021).
However, his departure from Warner Bros. in 2017 marked a significant shift in the franchise’s direction, with Peter Safran and James Gunn assuming creative leadership.
Despite the controversies and the transition to the DC Universe, Snyder remained a supporter of the franchise. Ahead of the release of Blue Beetle, he made a notable gesture by sharing an image from the film on Twitter. Snyder expressed his anticipation for the movie and his intention to watch it with his children.
Looking forward to taking my kids to see Blue Beetle. #RepresentationMatters #BlueBeetle pic.twitter.com/dJZxQxlWIO
— Zack Snyder (@ZackSnyder) July 30, 2023
This show of support was particularly meaningful given the ongoing friction between Snyder’s fans and the new direction of the DCU. Many of his followers had been critical of recent releases like The Flash and Shazam! Fury of the Gods, continuing to advocate for the restoration of Snyder’s original vision for the DCEU.
You can watch Blue Beetle on Max, Hulu and Disney Plus.
