"Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" debuted this weekend to a very successful box office, but mixed reviews from both viewers and critics. The movie is by no means perfect, rife with pacing issues and some spotty acting, as well as certain plot points that nearly derail the film by its climax. However, there were also some amazing portions that had me wanting more. For those who haven't seen it, it is an entertaining film, but on a completely different plane from Marvel's "The Avengers." Barring spoilers, here is what you can expect from "Dawn of Justice."
The Good
1. The Setup
Though this is most definitely a movie about Batman and Superman, there is a lot of setup for big and exciting things in DC's cinematic universe. Though many could see it as a desperate attempt to catch up to Marvel, it is mostly unobtrusive. Though this movie may not be the pinnacle that "Avengers" was, it gives enough hints and nods to future movies to keep the viewer excited for what DC can bring to the table in the future.
2. The Visuals/Music
There were several points in the movie when I was blown away by the beauty of what was on the screen. Complemented by an incredible score by Hans Zimmer and Junkie XL, much of BvS is full of eye candy. If you like pretty movies, then this may be worth your ticket.
3. Batman and Wonder Woman
When Ben Affleck was announced as Batman, the internet nearly burned down as a virtual angry mob decried his performance months before the movie was even shot. However, Batman essentially carries the movie, and is one of the best parts. He is unlike any other previous incarnation of Batman, but Affleck's performance is spot-on all the way through. Gal Gadot nails it as Wonder Woman, bringing a fully developed Diana Prince to the scene, though she is given very little screen time to do so. The Batmobile is also incredible, Jeremy Irons is an absolute treasure as Alfred, and the full package makes Ben Affleck one of the best live-action Batmen of all time.
The Bad
1. Superman
Though the other two thirds of DC's Big Three are solid, Henry Cavill doesn't quite match them. To be clear, Cavill is not a bad Superman, but his fairly wooden performance simply doesn't live up to his costars. Every time Superman was on the screen, I found myself wanting more Wonder Woman and Batman, as he is at his best when they are around.
2. The Plot/Pacing
The plot of BvS is spotty, filled with plot holes and at many points, threatens to fall apart. The pacing is rather slow, and the first two hours seem like setup for a climax that doesn't quite deliver. The climax, in fact is forced and feels nonsensical.
The Ugly
1. Doomsday
This could be considered a spoiler, but Doomsday literally appeared in a trailer for the movie. The film's climax revolves around the Big Three fighting him, and though the fight is fun to watch, Doomsday is entirely unnecessary for the plot of the movie. Compared to the beautiful movie that precedes it, Doomsday looks like a Ninja Turtle that was drawn on MS Paint. He not only destroys the city, but also any suspension of disbelief left at this point in the movie.
Overall, BvS is a good movie. It isn't terrible, but it certainly isn't great. If you like Batman, Wonder Woman or pretty movies, this is the movie for you. If you're looking for a great representation of Superman or a fast-paced action-fest, it may not be worth your time.
