After years of campaigning, DC Extended Universe fans are finally getting their wish. In a surprise announcement following today’s online screening of Man of Steel, director Zack Snyder revealed that his personal and highly requested cut of the 2017 superhero mash-up, Justice League, would finally premiere next year as an exclusive for WarnerMedia’s up-and-coming streaming service, HBO Max.
Snyder’s version of the film is expected to be vastly different from the original, which was shot by Avengers director and Buffy creator Joss Whedon. Whedon’s effort has been much maligned by fans for betraying the tone and vision that Snyder had initially developed for DC’s cinematic universe.
“It will be an entirely new thing, and, especially talking to those who have seen the released movie, a new experience apart from that movie,” Snyder told The Hollywood Reporter. He also estimates that the current release, which he never bothered watching, includes just “one-fourth” of what he did.
Warner Bros. isn’t sure how the Snyder Cut will be presented on HBO Max yet, but some of the ideas that have been floating around include a four-hour director’s cut and a mini series comprising multiple chapters. In any case, Snyder’s original vision for Justice League should be fully realized, as WB has reportedly offered $20 to $30 million for its production.
“Since I got here 14 months ago, the chant to #ReleaseTheSnyderCut has been a daily drumbeat in our offices and inboxes. Well, the fans have asked, and we are thrilled to finally deliver. At the end of the day, it really is all about them and we are beyond excited to be able to release Zack’s ultimate vision for this film in 2021. This could never have happened if it weren’t for the hard work and combined efforts of the teams at HBO Max and Warner Bros. Pictures,” said Robert Greenblatt, Chairman, Warner Media Entertainment and Direct-To-Consumer.
“I want to thank HBO Max and Warner Brothers for this brave gesture of supporting artists and allowing their true visions to be realized. Also a special thank you to all of those involved in the SnyderCut movement for making this a reality,” said Snyder.