Zack Snyder Claps Back at Critics of His Fanbase, Defends ‘Batman v Superman’ 10 Years Later: “Do You Really Want the Kmart Version of Your Story”

Zack Snyder has hit back at critics of his fans and defended his controversial 2016 film “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” on the “Happy Sad Confused” podcast, marking the movie’s 10-year anniversary. The film, which opened to largely negative reviews on March 25, 2016, ended up earning $874 million worldwide, cementing its place in superhero movie history despite the backlash.

Snyder explained that the polarized response to “BvS” was partly because it was a bold take on familiar characters. “My 100% honest reaction to ‘BvS’ and how it’s received in the world is… Do you really want a movie that’s had all the edges shaved off it by the focus groups? Do you really want a movie where the decisions have been made in a boardroom, or tested ideas have been rendered for your enjoyment? Do you really want the Kmart version of your story? Is that what you really want?”

The movie followed “Man of Steel,” which had already sparked debate among fans for Superman killing Zod. “BvS” intensified reactions by showing Batman killing criminals and exploring a storyline where the heroes bond over their mothers both being named Martha. Snyder said these creative risks were intended to challenge audiences and push boundaries.

“Batman v Superman” was the start of what fans call the “SnyderVerse,” a DC Universe series that continued with “Justice League.” Snyder left the project midway through “Justice League” due to a family tragedy, and the studio brought in Joss Whedon to complete reshoots, causing further controversy. Fans rallied on social media for the release of the “Snyder Cut,” which finally arrived on HBO Max in 2021.

Snyder reflected on the creative journey, saying, “I love the mythological journey we went on in these three movies. The intensity of where we ended up with ‘Justice League’ and how it evolved and where it came from. That whole insanity.” He also shared a story about the MPAA rating struggles during “BvS,” noting that the board thought Batman hitting Superman with a sink was too violent for PG-13, which he found absurd.

The director defended his fanbase in the interview. “They catch a lot of flak for being toxic or whatever, but they literally saved human lives. You can go f*** yourselves if that’s what you think.” He praised their support, including fundraising for suicide prevention, and emphasized that they played a key role in the SnyderVerse becoming a reality.

Snyder acknowledged that Warner Bros. has moved forward with a DC Universe led by James Gunn and Peter Safran. “James is cool. I wish them all the best. That three-movie trilogy is a weed that just won’t die. It grows on its own. It has its own life.” He said the SnyderVerse and Gunn’s DC films are separate experiences for audiences to enjoy.

Snyder’s unapologetic defense highlights the tension between studio-driven decisions and a director’s vision. His fans’ dedication shows how passionate communities can shape pop culture. What do you think about Snyder’s comments and the SnyderVerse legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments.