Samuel Tuero | On 27, Mar 2016

It’s been nearly two years since Superman’s (Henry Cavill) colossal battle with Zod (Michael Shannon) devastated the city of Metropolis. The loss of life and collateral damage left many feeling angry and helpless, including crime-fighting billionaire Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck). Convinced that Superman is now a threat to humanity, Batman embarks on a personal vendetta to end his reign on Earth, while the conniving Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg) launches his own crusade against the man of steel.

Let me first say that I approve of Ben Affleck’s portrayal of Batman, introducing the audience to a much darker, sadistic Batman, a la The Dark Knight Returns. In addition to Affleck’s performance, Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman, given her limited screen time, is also excellent with what she is given to do. However, a performance I did not enjoy was that of Jesse Eisenberg’s Lex Luthor; I thought he was too eccentric and that detracted from the rest of the film.

Though it just feels hollow and rushed, I have to admit I didn’t completely dislike the film, as it features some great action sequences, along with the delight of seeing some of my childhood favorites on screen together for the first time.

Batman v Superman has its moments with some great action and performances, though you cannot help but feel overwhelmingly disappointed for a film that was supposed to set a new precedent for universe building. There are some very interesting story ideas that have so much potential throughout the film, though they never get fleshed out enough for any of it to be compelling. The script itself is a mess, possibly being one of the worst screenplays put together in terms of story structure and cohesiveness.

The film has the burden of not only setting up the Justice League but Batman, Wonder Woman, Lex Luthor, Doomsday and, oh that’s right, Superman. None of the film’s storylines ever seem to tie together in any unified way that would make it compelling. None are given enough screen time to be developed or interesting, and it comes off as disjointed and rushed. The characters feel empty and shallow with their motivations being complicated at best. Zach Snyder squanders any character development and substance with an exhausting CGI action explosion fest.

All in all, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice squanders strong performances and a potentially great story for nauseating CGI action. This one might please die-hard DC fans, but everyone else might be left feeling disenchanted.