At least so far, the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) has been defined by record-breaking highs (Wonder Woman) and crushing lows (Suicide Squad). But 2016 was a particularly difficult year for Warner’s fledgling franchise.
Off the back of Man of Steel, the studio readied its titanic, crowd-pleasing flagship, Batman V Superman. Because it involved two of the biggest names in comic book history, Dawn of Justice was championed as the cinematic equivalent of a slam-dunk leading up to release – one that would easily muscle its way into Hollywood’s exclusive billion-dollar club. The end result, however, was a muddled, CG-laden mess. And don’t even get us started on Suicide Squad.
No matter what way you spin the numbers, Batman V Superman didn’t light up the box office in the way Warner Bros. would have hoped. This, coupled with the deluge of scathing reviews, reportedly left WB mulling over Zack Snyder’s future in the DC Extended Universe. In fact, they even considered parting ways with Snyder prior to Justice League. Obviously, though, that didn’t happen and Zack went on to direct the pic – for the most part.
But, if you think the filmmaker will be returning to the DCEU at some point, you’d best think again, as Variety’s now blown the lid off the situation over at WB and according to them, Time Warner was not happy that the studio execs continued to bring Snyder back.
Here’s what they had to say:
Time Warner is said to be frustrated that Warner Bros. leaders continue to bring the director back, especially after “Batman v Superman” was excoriated by critics even though it made money. They’re also upset that each new DC film seems to be making less money than its predecessor. Only “Wonder Woman,” with its optimistic heroine, managed to be both a critical and commercial success.
As if that wasn’t confirmation enough that Zack’s time with the franchise is done, the outlet also noted that “there are no immediate plans for Snyder to direct another movie.” Doesn’t get much more clear than that, right?
The studio’s clearly done taking chances on him and won’t be letting him near anymore of their costumed crusaders, or anything related to the DCEU for that matter. But is that really the right decision? As always, you can weigh in with your thoughts down below.
