Key Takeaways:
– Zack Snyder's Rebel Moon series on Netflix received negative reviews from fans.
– A prequel spinoff, The Seneschal, is set to release as a podcast.
– Audiences express discontent at the continuation of the franchise.
– Despite criticisms, a third Rebel Moon film is reportedly in the early stages of development.
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Zack Snyder, best known for his contribution to the DC universe, hiccuped with his sci-fi endeavor, Rebel Moon, on Netflix. Despite his distinct style and ambitious intentions, the films fell flat for many viewers, earning Snyder some of his worst reviews to date.
Interesting Concept, Unremarkable Execution
Both entries in the Rebel Moon series, renowned for their grand vision and Star Wars-inspired sci-fi elements, failed to captivate their targeted audience. Critics highlighted the underwhelming execution, drab characters, and overall boring storytelling as significant drawbacks. Nonetheless, the director's cut versions of the films are slated for release next month.
Recently announced is a prequel podcast to the movies named The Seneschal. As per Netflix Tudum, the podcast will share the origin story of robot knights – the Jimmys – set 500 before the events in the Rebel Moon films. These characters were indeed voiced by the renowned actor Anthony Hopkins.
Viewer Backlash to the Rebel Moon Prequel Podcast
Despite the new project's inherent intrigue, fans appear wary of more content from the Rebel Moon franchise. Snyder's decision to keep expanding the universe has garnered widespread criticism, with fans on X voicing their disapproval openly.
The comments ranged from calling the franchise “garbage” to questioning the need for a spin-off after an already subpar movie. Many fans, fed up with the franchise, voiced their preference for an end to repeated attempts at trying to milk what they see as a failed IP.
The Podcast Cast and Release
Despite the public backlash, The Seneschal will still feature a talented cast, including voices from Ella Purnell, Naveen Andrews, Alfred Enoch, Peter Serafinowicz, and Jason Isaacs. The podcast commences on July 29th, with six episodes releasing weekly on platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music.
Preparation for a Third Rebel Moon Film?
Adding fuel to the fire, writer Kurt Johnstad hinted at a third Rebel Moon film in a recent interview. Johnstad and co-writer Shay Hatten have apparently storyboarded the film already, with Johnstad having written around 20 pages of the script.
Meanwhile, Snyder pins hopes on the director's cut of the first two films changing perceptions about the franchise. The release, scheduled for August 2, may prove instrumental in reviving fan interest and setting the stage for the third film in the series, contingent upon a positive reception to the director's cut films.
Regardless of the sentiment surrounding Snyder's Rebel Moon films and the forthcoming podcast, it appears clear that the franchise is far from over. The coming weeks will reveal if the new releases can turn the tide for Rebel Moon and reignite interest among audiences.
