In hindsight, I think it's safe to say that Batman VvSuperman: Dawn of Justice was probably the most polarizing comic book movie of 2016. It did not receive the same amount of universal praise as Captain America: Civil War, but it also wasn't nearly as reviled as Suicide Squad. Zack Snyder's superhero showdown has divided audiences right down the middle, and now it seems that Laurence Fishburne (who portrays Perry White in the film) thinks that much of the criticism is unfounded. The actor explained:
Look, I love what Zack Snyder does. Jesse Eisenberg, this little nebbishy guy, as Lex Luthor? For me, that's a genius move. And the whole thing with Martha Kent and Martha Wayne? I don't know, man, I must be sentimental but that's some heartwarming [stuff] to me. So I don't get it.
The Matrix star's recent comment to The Los Angeles Times highlight what many die-hard DC fans have echoed since Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice hit theaters in March. It's not the most traditional superhero movie in the genre, but it took creative risks that are at the very least worthy of praise. Jesse Eisenberg may not fit the traditional archetype of Lex Luthor; it's also pretty clear that he was never supposed to fit that idea in the first place. The film did unexpected and bizarre things with a well-worn universe, and that's deserving of commendation.
This idea is merely my own opinion, but I feel somewhat willing to agree with Laurence Fishburne on this matter -- particularly when it comes to the infamous Martha scene. Sure, it's not handled quite as delicately as it could've been, but the moment when Batman (Ben Affleck) decides not to kill Superman (Henry Cavill) is not nearly as bad as the detractors would lead you to believe.
I could be wrong, but that feels earned to me. That said, DC has very clearly picked up on the amount of backlash that occurred following the release of Batman v Superman and Suicide Squad, so it's entirely possible that the comic book giant will make some significant changes moving forward. Justice League could potentially double down on these risky creative decisions, or it could also see Snyder considerably reigned in.
We will just have to wait and see what other bold creative moves Zack Snyder takes when his next DC adventure hits theaters. Justice League will open on November 17, 2017.
Want a better look at Snyder's upcoming superhero epic? Check out the first official Justice League trailer on the next page!
