6) Superman Dies
The final reason Zack Snyder saved Superman is simple: he killed him.
Maybe that sounds disingenuous or unreasonably ironic, but in Snyder’s redefinition of Superman for a realistic, modern universe, it works. Superman’s death differentiates him from all previous 21st century title heroes. In no other superhero franchise does the movie end with the title character’s death. Captain America comes closest in Captain America: the First Avenger, but he doesn’t die and comes back within the runtime of the movie.
By killing Superman, Snyder canonizes him as a martyr in the eyes of the in-universe public. His death leaves Batman and Wonder Woman with a chance to make use of what he taught them. Batman relearns mercy and belief in humanity. Wonder Woman resolves to return to the world of men as a hero after 100 years isolating herself.
[zergpaid]Most of all, the Death of Superman shows us, the viewing public, that Snyder takes superheroes un-ironically seriously. While other franchises poke fun at their heroes, in this franchise, Snyder means business. It’s a refreshing change, and fits Superman’s position as the iconic superhero.
Overall, Zack Snyder saved Superman by making him different from every hero and hero franchise that came before. Superman stands out, and the realism of the world he lives in makes him a true ideal to reach for. It’s my hope that someday, other critics and non-DCEU fans will recognize that.
