Zack Snyder first entered the world of superheroes with his 2009 film Watchmen. The film, based on the critically acclaimed graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons, showcased the filmmaker’s unique visual style and his ability to bring complex characters to life. Watchmen was praised for its dark and gritty tone, as well as its exploration of moral ambiguity within the superhero genre. However, Snyder’s dark and operatic take on superheroes was not universally embraced by audiences and critics, as some felt that his movies were too bleak and lacked the hope and optimism typically associated with the genre.
Patrick Wilson Reflects on Watchmen‘s Legacy
Now, 14 years after its release, Patrick Wilson reflects on the Watchmen legacy, praising director Zack Snyder for being “ahead of the curve” with his dark take on the superhero genre, which he believes paved the way for films like The Avengers. In an interview with the ReelBlend podcast, Wilson, who played Nite Owl in Snyder’s first foray into the superhero world (if you don’t count 300), spoke on the film’s legacy, expressing his love for the film and sharing his belief that fans were not ready for such a dark and gritty take on superhero films when it was first released.
“Watchmen is the only movie of mine that I have watched front to back since a premiere. That movie’s awesome. I wanted to share it with my son. I also probably wanted to fast-forward the scene with me and Malin [Akerman] in the ship. I needed to stay close by. No, I wanted to look at it as an older guy, as a filmmaker. I knew Zack [Snyder] was kind of, he was ahead of the curve. You know, it’s weird to say that audiences weren’t ready for it, but you need a movie like that. You need movies to go so dark that then Avengers can go so light. I do believe in that. But yeah, I love that movie. I’d love to do that movie now. I would, honestly, I think that’d be so awesome to just do it now.”
The World of Watchmen: A Dark Vision of Superheroes
Set in an alternate version of America where superheroes exist, Watchmen follows a group of retired superheroes who reunite to investigate the murder of one of their own and uncover a larger conspiracy. In this world, superheroes are not revered as symbols of hope and justice but rather viewed with suspicion and fear by the general public. The story explores the complex dynamics between these flawed characters, revealing their personal struggles and the consequences of their actions in a way that challenges the traditional black-and-white morality often associated with superhero narratives.
The Enduring Influence of Watchmen
Patrick Wilson is right. While Zack Snyder’s Watchmen may not have received the same level of mainstream success as other superhero films of its time, its unique approach to storytelling and thought-provoking themes have certainly impacted the genre. Its exploration of moral grey areas and the consequences of wielding power has influenced subsequent superhero narratives (think The Boys and Invincible) that also delve into complex and morally ambiguous characters. The superhero film’s legacy can also be seen in its visual style, which has inspired the gritty and dark aesthetic of many modern superhero adaptations, including Snyder’s own DC Extended Universe films like Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice and Justice League.
So, whether one appreciates its influence or not, Watchmen has undeniably left its mark on the landscape of superhero storytelling.
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Is Patrick Wilson right about Watchmen? Do you think Zack Snyder’s Watchmen would have more success if it were released now?
