Key takeaways:
– Decades before Zack Snyder’s Batman vs Superman, Batman and Superman clashed in the DC Animated Universe (DCAU) because of Bruce Timm’s fortuitous opportunity.
– The clash between the two iconic figures was influenced by the chemistry between the dialogue voice actors, Kevin Conroy and Dana Delaney.
– Zack Snyder faced criticism with his 2016 film Batman vs Superman but redeemed himself with his own version of Justice League.
The Unexpected Meeting of Batman and Superman on the Small Screen
Renowned executive producers Bruce Timm and Alan Burnett breathed life into the iconic character of Superman with Superman: The Animated Series following their success on Batman: The Animated Series. The two shows shared the same continuity, laying the groundwork to form the extensive DC Animated Universe (DCAU).
The much-celebrated team-up of Batman and Superman in the DCAU happened in the World’s Finest episode aired in 1997 due to a fortunate twist of fate. Speaking in an interview with CBR, Bruce Timm noted that the rights to Batman became available right in the middle of their second season of Superman, giving them the green light to bring together the two heroes. The voice actor chemistry further spiced up the narrative, leading to an unexpected romantic duel over Lois Lane.
A Fortuitous Opportunity
Timm shared, “Kids’ WB immediately said we should make more Batman episodes when the rights became available again, which we thought was great. Somebody suggested launching the new series by teaming him up with Superman and we all loved that idea.”
The creative team rolled with the idea, and despite an over-emphasis on the conflict between the characters, the crossover was a fun-filled experience for the team. In fact, the decision to have Batman love interest Lois Lane was a move influenced by the remarkable chemistry between voice actors Kevin Conroy and Dana Delaney. Timm described the creation of World’s Finest as a fortuitous and enjoyable initiative.
This predated Zack Snyder’s much-debated feature Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice by almost two decades, underlining the pivotal role timing played in the television series’ success.
The Controversial Journey of Zack Synder
Zack Snyder, well-known for his unique and trademark style of directing, faced both praise and criticism throughout his career. Critics pointed at Snyder’s consistent overuse of certain themes and biblical imagery in his films, specifically in Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice, which led to some calling him a ‘hack’.
Despite the criticism, Snyder’s 300 and Watchmen showcased his directing skills and helped him become a notable name in Hollywood. But it was the Man of Steel movie in 2013 that ultimately defined Snyder’s style, setting the tone for his future work within the DC Extended Universe (DCEU).
Snyder’s reputation somewhat faltered with Batman vs Superman but was redeemed with his 2021 version of Justice League. Hailed as a four-hour epic, the Director’s Cut was far superior to the original 2017 version, hence garnering significant appreciation from DC fans. This has spurred ongoing conversations among fans hoping for Snyder’s return to the DC Universe.
With the DCAU’s luck-driven clash of Batman and Superman and Snyder’s controversial journey within the DCEU, it’s clear that the world of DC has room for dynamic story-telling. As fans, all we can do is sit back and enjoy the entertaining ride that these creators take us on.
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