Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is a movie that has made people talk a lot since its inception. Zack Snyder has directed the film, which also features Ben Affleck as Batman, Henry Cavill as Superman, and Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman, all for the first time in such a setting. While the theatrical cut has been panned by many, the Ultimate Edition has been received better with its longer running time and depth. Let’s take a closer look at this ambitious film and what the Ultimate Edition brings to the table.
The story revolves around the ideological clash of two heroes: Bruce Wayne/Batman, the hardened vigilante with a grim outlook on justice, and Clark Kent/Superman, an alien with god-like powers who tries to find his way through a world fearing him. It is here that the tension builds between them up to a great battle, marking the stage for greater threats in the future.
The Ultimate Edition adds about 30 minutes of footage, which does not sound like much, but truly makes up for the lack by improving the narrative flow significantly. The subplots that were really rushed in the theatrical cut take on more breathing room, especially those related to the political intrigue involving Superman. More of Clark Kent as a journalist investigating Batman is also seen along with the manipulations of Lex Luthor played by Jesse Eisenberg, and all these make heroes’ animosity a bit more understandable.
When Ben Affleck was confirmed as Batman, people were generally skeptical. Nonetheless, he seems to have kept most of his critics quiet with his performance. Affleck is an older and battle-worn Batman, being morally ambiguous and not the young, optimistic Bruce Wayne of times past. It is a man who has lost faith in humans and operates on the edge of brutality.
The Ultimate Edition takes the story deeper into his psyche, more into how deep his paranoia and fear for Superman’s unbridled power is. Even the infamous “Martha” moment, where Batman lets Superman live upon realizing that both their mothers shared the same name, is still divisive, but at least a little more understandable, since it’s not only about the name, but about Bruce confronting his humanity.
Henry Cavill’s Superman is a figure of hope and fear. The movie raises the question of what happens when a god walks among men? Cavill plays the role well, capturing the internal conflict of a man who wants to do the right thing in a world that questions everything he does.
The Ultimate Edition goes deeper into what consequences Superman’s actions would have, expanded scenes explaining the senate hearings and other after-effects so that just why public opinion is so divided really makes sense. Thought-provoking exploration of the load being hope itself, burdened with being distrusted and manipulated.
Even though her role is very minor when compared to Batman and Superman, Gal Gadot’s Diana Prince/Wonder Woman steals every scene that she’s a part of. Her entrance to the film is both elegant and powerful and finally culminates in her unforgettable entrance during the climactic battle with Doomsday.
The Ultimate Edition contributes little to her character but does prepare the way for her standalone film. She has a sense of a world beyond this, a history yet to be seen, which is quite exciting for the fans.
Lex Luthor played by Jesse Eisenberg is probably one of the most divisive antagonists in this movie.
Perhaps the most objectionable part of the film is the way Jesse Eisenberg portrays Lex Luthor. A brilliant, unhinged genius instead of the stoic, calculating businessman. Some people found this refreshing, whereas others thought it to be overly flamboyant.
The Ultimate Edition does provide more background to Luthor’s schemes and the extent of his manipulations. His motives are still at times convoluted, but the additional scenes help tie in his plans. Love him or hate him, Eisenberg’s Luthor is a bold interpretation that adds a unique flavor to the film.
The character of Wahlsberg is so loud, obnoxious, and absolutely hilarious that his mouth opens without any restraint and puts in a series of sharp and insulting comments on people around him. Although he is shown in very few scenes, Dignam is one very important role.
Zack Snyder is known for his visual style, and this film is no exception. From the brutal warehouse fight by Batman to the final explosive showdown with Doomsday, the action sequences are quite spectacular. He has a clear talent for making jaw-dropping visuals, and the Ultimate Edition ups the ante on these by having better pacing and buildup.
One of the most memorable scenes is the titular battle between Batman and Superman. It is as much a clash of ideologies as it is a physical confrontation, and the choreography reflects their contrasting styles. The tactical approach of Batman versus raw power of Superman makes for an exciting fight.
It’s no ordinary superhero movie, but an extremely philosophical take on morality, power, and accountability. What it asks in the questions as to what the price of heroism is and what fear lies behind it-but in the theatrical cut, it feels disjointed-but with this Ultimate Edition, coherence is achieved.
The extended scenes mainly highlight the political and social consequences of Superman’s existence, making his struggle more relatable. Similarly, Batman’s arc of redemption now feels more earned with how we could witness him change from vengeful vigilante to leader willing to trust others.
This Ultimate Edition is really the revelation for anyone disappointed by the theatrical cut. Of course, it also makes the film much more cohesive and emotionally resonant, one that responds to many of the criticisms about the original release. And yet, it’s not perfect; at times, it drags and is a tad slow, while some of those creative choices are still divisive.
With this said, however, the Ultimate Edition is not to be missed by any Batman or DC Universe fan. The film is brazen and adventurous, laying foundations for stories ahead while also telling a compelling thought-provoking take on these iconic characters. Love it or hate it, “Batman v Superman: Ultimate Edition” is a must-see cinema that demands talking about.
“Batman v Superman: Ultimate Edition” is a film truly born of Zack Snyder’s vision. It’s a film that takes risks, challenges conventions, and really explores the mythology of its characters. It won’t please everyone, but it’s essential to the puzzle of the DC cinematic universe. For those who are willing to accept its flaws and appreciate its ambitions, the Ultimate Edition provides a richer, more rewarding experience.
So, if you are one of those who have avoided revisiting “Batman v Superman,” give this Ultimate Edition a shot. You might just end up loving it more than ever for this tale of gods, men, and the battle for hope.
