Key Takeaways:
– Netflix and Zack Snyder released PG versions of Rebel Moon, which led to disappointments among fans and garnered negative responses.
– There was poor performance and underwhelming viewership for the director's cut of the films released later.
– Fans respond negatively to the promotions made about the new films.
– Zack Snyder hints at a shift in direction, focusing on a smaller non-VFX project next.
Fumbled Release Strategy of Rebel Moon Films
Controversial director Zack Snyder is no stranger to invoking mixed feelings among moviegoers. Known for his work in the DC Extended Universe, the filmmaker's approach towards popular intellectual properties has been divisive to say the least. His latest venture, Rebel Moon, has been no different and has brought up some intense debate among fans.
Netflix and Snyder released PG versions of the films, triggering disappointment and negative responses from critics and fans alike. Snyder then promised that the upcoming director's cut, an R-rated version, would rectify the initial hiccups and present a more superior version of the plotline.
Rebel Moon Director's Cut Falls Flat
Much to the chagrin of fans, the hype around the director's cut of Rebel Moon failed to meet expectations. The films trailed behind the viewing numbers of the initial PG versions, with less than 3.6 million views in the opening weekend. However, the original movies managed to secure much higher opening weekend figures, with both Rebel Moon: A Child of Fire and Rebel Moon: The Scargiver earning 23.9 million and 21.4 million views respectively.
The distinct drop in viewership is a clear reflection of the audiences' disinterest and dissatisfaction with the director's cut. Angry fans took to Twitter to vent their discontent, voicing opinions that range from criticising Snyder's marketing tactics to outright rejection of his movie-making abilities.
Underwhelming Response to Snyder's Strategy
One of the key issues fans voiced is the sense of being misled by the hyped promotions of a supposedly superior execution of the movie. Instead, what they got was an incoherence similar to that of the PG versions, amplified with more bloodshed and violence. Despite a marginally better reception than the PG movies, the director's cut fell short of being the revolutionising narrative science fiction, leaving the audience far from impressed.
Snyder's Pivot to Smaller Scale Productions
In the wake of Rebel Moon's debacle, Snyder revealed his inclination towards a smaller, non-VFX project. On the Reelblend Podcast, the director announced his desire to take a step back from heavy graphics films. The appeal of focusing on a project which doesn't rely on any heavy-duty technology presents a big shift in narrative for Snyder. He is currently working on a script for a more intimate film, hoping this approach will resonate more with the audiences.
Fans weary of Snyder's larger-than-life projects welcome this news. After the major flop of Rebel Moon, a smaller, more focused project might be the much-needed change of pace to restore their faith in the filmmaker.
You can still stream the PG and R-rated versions of Rebel Moon on Netflix and judge for yourself if the films live up to the hype or not.
