In many ways, Zack Snyder brought a unique aesthetic to the world of superheroes when he entered the DC franchise to bring his version of Superman to life with Man of Steel. In addition, his work in Justice League: The Snyder Cut was further proof of his lofty creative vision that impressed hardcore fans of the franchise.
While the director is not part of DC anymore following James Gunn’s appointment, he was asked about his thoughts on the recent popularity of video game adaptations following the massive success of The Last of Us and the recently released Fallout. Snyder though was hesitant about taking on this genre and stated his reasons for thinking so.
Why Zack Snyder Is Shying Away From Video Game Adaptations
Zack Snyder has proved that there is no limit to his creative abilities and vision through his impressive filmography that includes visually crafted hits like Watchmen, 300, and Rebel Moon, along with his work in the DC franchise in films like Justice League and Man of Steel.
The director appeared on the Happy Sad Confused podcast with Josh Horowitz to speak extensively about his filmmaking career and many other aspects of his movies. During the course of the conversation, the host steered the topic towards video game adaptations.
The genre has become immensely popular after the stupendous success of shows like The Last Of Us and Fallout which are getting a lot of acclaim. The host addressed this phenomenon and asked Snyder about his thoughts on possibly helming a series or film based on a video game.
The 300 filmmaker was all praise for these shows and the manner in which they had brought out the nuances of the video games. Having said that, he pointed out that these games already had a solid narrative with various emotions that could be seamlessly adapted to the screen.
But this was not the case for all games where a fresh story would have to be created for a movie or a series. Snyder felt that some of these may also not translate well on the screen, which made him hesitant to try his hand at this genre. Citing an example, he said,
“It’s like making a paintball movie you know. What I mean is, it’s difficult, because the experience of the game is better. Video games are tough”.
While the Man of Steel filmmaker was clear in his explanation of his reasons for not entering into this genre for now, fans would be secretly hoping that he changes his mind and ventures into the world sooner rather than later.
Zack Snyder’s Extended Cut Of Rebel Moon Will See A Late Summer Release
In 2023, Zack Snyder directed Rebel Moon based on an original idea that he envisioned for the big screen. This epic space opera did not set the box office on fire but ended up becoming extremely popular on Netflix, with fans lapping it up and praising Snyder’s unique directorial touches.
Now, the filmmaker is set to release an extended cut of the movie which was originally expected to premier in mid 2024, but has been delayed to allow Snyder to keep his R-rated promise to fans.
To put this into context, the director’s movies are famously known to be rated R owing to the language, violence, and certain emotionally mature content that is depicted in them. This stands true for his stint in the DCEU as well as outside of it in films like 300 and Watchmen.
Originally slated to stream on Netflix in the middle of 2024, the project is now being further delayed mainly owing to the director wanting to ensure that the film will stay true to his promise of an R rating according to confirmation on social media.
Zack and Debra Synder said they’re still working on the Directors Cut of #RebelMoon. It’s currently Rated NC-17 and has to come down to an R so possibly will release late Summer pic.twitter.com/BLHMB0Td5w
— President Of Physical Media (@PhysicalMedia_) April 6, 2024
The post reveals that the extended cut which was rated NC-17, is now rated R after Snyder’s efforts to rework a few aspects of the narrative. The movie is expected to release in the latter half of summer 2024. With Netflix backing the director to present a fully unadulterated version of his passion project, fans will be eagerly waiting for what’s in store.
Rebel Moon is streaming on Netflix.