The Snyderverse Debate: A VoxVerses Analysis

Over the years, the term Snyderverse has become a hot topic in the DC comic book community. This debate is largely fueled by a vocal group of fans who have a nostalgic attachment to Zack Snyder’s vision for the DC Extended Universe (DCEU). However, as we delve deeper into the matter, it is crucial to understand the current context and the misleading nature of the Snyderverse concept.

Background and Game of Thrones Parallel

First, let us revisit a significant parallel—when HBO Max, the newer streaming service owned by Warner Bros., sought to gain traction in a market where HBO’s Game of Thrones had a strong subscriber base. HBO’s loss of 39% of subscribers after the end of Game of Thrones presented a challenge to its streaming service. To address this, Warner Bros. focused on promoting the Snyder Cut of Justice League and the Snyderverse concept to drive attention to HBO Max.

The Futility and Misunderstanding

However, the desire among some fans to restore the Snyderverse is not without its critics. Many argue that the term is a misnomer, given that Zack Snyder was not the architect of the DCEU. Films like Justice League (2017), while following Snyder’s vision, were made in collaboration with other directors. Nolan and Goyer played key roles in the overall continuity and structure of the DCEU, much like how the MCU is often hailed as the Whedonverse or the Favreauverse due to the contributions of multiple directors.

The Reality of Snyder's Vision

Zack Snyder envisioned an expansive cinematic universe that would include Justice League 2 and 3. However, his plans were often out of his hands. The original version of Justice League was significantly altered, with major portions being replaced or re-shot. This alteration led to a disjointed narrative that fans found unsatisfactory. The current Snyder Cut (2021), while a significant step forward, still faces criticism due to its differences from Snyder’s original vision.

Another factor to consider is that the Snyderverse concept itself is problematic. Justice League (2017) and the post-film content featuring Wonder Woman, Aquaman, and The Flash have diverged significantly from the established continuity of the main DCEU. Films like The Batman and Joker are set in their own “Worlds of DC,” while Aquaman and The Flash belong to the main DCEU. Wonder Woman 1984 (2020) is particularly incongruous and has been placed in its own timeline, separate from the main DCEU.

The Future of the DCEU

Given these complexities, a restoration of the Snyderverse is an exercise in futility. Instead, the focus should be on developing a cohesive narrative that respects the established continuity of the DCEU. One specific area that requires closure is the Justice League storyline. Snyder had intended to make a trilogy, and his vision was to conclude it in a satisfying way. Therefore, supporters of Zack Snyder should focus their energies on campaigning for a final Justice League film to wrap up his vision.

The whole argument around the Snyderverse reflects a broader debate within the fan community about what constitutes a cohesive cinematic universe. As with any franchise, the goal should be to create a universe that is both consistent and engaging for viewers. This requires a collaborative effort that respects the contributions of all creators involved.