Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice

Batman v Superman is an exhausting jumble. It doesn't have a clear point because it's overstuffed. It introduces Batman, society's fear of Superman, the conflict between heroes, Lex Luthor's masterplan, and the formation of the Justice League. Each plotline deserves its own film, but instead they're crammed together and suffocated. Had Batman v Superman focused on the relationship between the titular characters, it might've worked. Furthermore, the tone is too serious. The film tries to be a brooding meditation on humanity while also indulging in mindless action, undermining itself. It does neither well, and ends up as a joyless marathon.

Technically, Batman v Superman is excessively dour. Despite utilizing lighting, focus, and shutter speed to heighten climaxes, the visuals are weighed down by drab colors and ugly destruction. The epic music and magnified sound don't connect because they serve a cluttered and miserable story. The effects are exclusively CGI, desensitizing the action. The combat editing is cohesive, but entire scenes are superfluous and the runtime is overindulgent. Lastly, the production design clashes with itself. Grim settings don't optimize cheesy characters. Overall, Zack Snyder attempted too much, while employing an overly edgy mood. Ultimately, Batman v Superman isn't worthwhile.

Writing: 2/10

Direction: 3/10

Cinematography: 5/10

Acting: 5/10

Editing: 4/10

Sound: 7/10

Score/Soundtrack: 6/10

Production Design: 3/10

Casting: 8/10

Effects: 6/10

Overall Score: 4.9/10