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What does it signify that Zack Snyder’s Rebel Moon is currently ranked at the top of the Netflix Top 10? It suggests that viewers of the platform are willing to watch just about anything. This is the same streaming service that offered Adam Sandler, the actor and producer responsible for beloved contemporary films like Jack and Jill, I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry, and Grown Ups 2, a multi-film contract as early as 2014. One of the movies that emerged from this deal was 2015’s The Ridiculous 6, which received a dismal 0% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite this, it was incredibly popular – perhaps the creators understand their target audience well.
It should be noted that Netflix also offers a significant amount of high-quality content. The platform appears to prioritize movies that are popular for casual viewing, as well as those that viewers will rewatch, suggest to others, and incorporate into their cultural identity for years to come. This may explain why Snyder’s work is well-suited for Netflix.
Since its release in 2009, Watchmen by the US film-maker has received criticism from critics. Despite making over $800m worldwide, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016) was heavily criticized for being an overhyped, violent marketing ploy that failed to understand the world of superheroes and, more importantly, Batman himself.
The film Sucker Punch (2011) was previously criticized for prioritizing style over substance, and both Man of Steel (2013) and animated fantasy Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’hoole received lackluster responses. Despite negative reviews for Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire, a trailer for its sequel, Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver, was released this week and the movie is set to premiere in April.
Snyder has surprisingly amassed a devoted following on social media, despite the downfall of the DC extended universe. This is advantageous for Netflix, which relies on a steady stream of new content to retain subscribers, whether it be highbrow Oscar contenders or reality TV like Selling Sunset. Is Snyder now immune to criticism, similar to Sandler’s past success?
Only a select few directors are able to overcome negative reviews for multiple films, but one filmmaker stands out for defying criticism. With the exception of the surprisingly well-received Justice League director’s cut, this director has not produced a critically acclaimed film in over ten years, yet their career continues to thrive. Rebel Moon may be nothing more than an expensive and visually appealing imitation of Star Wars, but there is a strong possibility that Snyder, supported by Netflix, will be able to bring his vision of a multimedia space franchise to life, competing with the iconic creation of George Lucas.
Furthermore, Christopher Nolan proposed last week that his former partner (on Man of Steel) should be acknowledged as a significant influence on films based on comic books.
In a recent profile piece, The Atlantic referred to Zack Snyder as “The director people love to hate,” but his influence can be seen in many current superhero science-fiction films, according to Nolan. Snyder’s love for the possibilities of cinema is evident in his work, which strives to be both fantastical and emotionally impactful.
It cannot be reworded.
However, statistics speak for themselves, and they indicate that Rebel Moon has caught the attention of many. With Nolan and 24 million Netflix viewers on board, it seems that we can expect a plethora of neo-Jedi and mock lightsaber escapades in space for a long time. Maybe, with enough attempts, Snyder might create a successful one. But if not, that’s the beauty of streaming – there’s always another option to watch.
Source: theguardian.com
