Zack Snyder’s Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice continues to spark heated discussions, remaining a topic of controversy even eight years after its premiere in 2016. The film introduced Ben Affleck as Batman in the DC Extended Universe (DCEU), pitting him against Henry Cavill’s Superman. Despite its place within the larger narrative, Batman v Superman remains one of the most divisive films in DC’s cinematic history.
Interestingly, the concept of conflict between these two iconic heroes isn’t entirely new to the DC universe. In fact, a particularly controversial comic book story, Batman #42, depicts Superman actually killing Batman. While they’ve clashed numerous times in the comics, instances of Superman directly causing Batman’s death are rare. One such instance involved the villain Poison Ivy manipulating Superman, leading him to fatally punch Batman in a fit of rage. However, even in this instance, Batman was eventually resurrected, highlighting the complex and often nuanced relationship between these two powerful figures.
Superman Killed Batman With a Single Punch
Superman, the legendary hero of the DC Universe, embodies everything a superhero can be. He stands as the epitome of hope and kindness.
In the Batman #42 storyline of DC Comics titled Everyone Loves Ivy, Superman found himself under the control of Poison Ivy, an unexpected turn of events that unfolded within the main continuity.
In this narrative twist, Superman’s immense power was harnessed by Poison Ivy, who had devised a unique method to dominate the world. Through her ability to influence all edible vegetation, Poison Ivy gradually took control, one meal at a time, transforming herself into the most potent adversary on Earth. Even the formidable Man of Steel, known for his resilience and strength, succumbed to Ivy’s control.
This unforeseen turn of events led to Superman becoming a formidable force under Poison Ivy’s influence. Batman, usually a close ally, fell victim to the situation, with Superman becoming Ivy’s most powerful tool in her attempt to bring the Dark Knight under control.
Zack Snyder Spoke about Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice‘s Controversy
Director Zack Snyder, once seen as a potential savior for DC films, faced backlash with the release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice in 2016. The movie continues to spark heated discussions even today.
During a Q&A at Snyder’s Full Circle event on Vero, he delved into the reasons behind the divisive response to the movie. Snyder attributed the mixed reception to the fact that many viewers expected a typical superhero film, but Batman v Superman turned out to be a “hardcore deconstructivist, heavily layered, experiential modern mythological superhero movie.” According to him, appreciating the layers of the DC film requires keen attention.
Snyder also noted that the film demanded a significant level of engagement from the audience, something they might not have anticipated or appreciated.
“And we gave them this sort of hardcore deconstructivist, heavily layered, experiential modern mythological superhero movie that needs…that you really need to pay attention to. That was not cool [for them]. That’s not something anyone wanted to do. They were like, ‘What? No! That’s exhausting. How about, why do they fight at night?’ I hate that.”
Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice depicts the clash between the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel, orchestrated by the manipulative Lex Luthor. However, the two iconic Justice League heroes eventually put aside their differences to combat a more formidable foe, Doomsday. With the assistance of Wonder Woman, they successfully overcome this powerful adversary, showcasing the film’s intricate narrative and mythological elements.
Watch Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice on Max.
