5 Reasons Why BvS is a Really Good Movie *Minimal Spoilers*

Rating: 9/10 (31 March 2016)

Critics are like complainers at an event: "Well, the music wasn't very good", or "Did you try the watered down sour mash?" - there's one in every crowd. And in Zack Snyder's latest superhero tentpole, I have to admit that I had big expectations (and when one does, it's easy to be let down). But I REALLY liked this film (and then again, I really liked "Man of Steel", Zack' first Superman event, and I really liked Chris Nolan's "Dark Knight" trilogy, too). When Batman v. Superman began, I was relieved when I saw that Chris Nolan was one of the exec producers - plus, I liked what I saw on the trailers. So here are 5 Reasons why I REALLY liked this film:
1. The Talent
With all the grumblings about Ben Affleck as the Caped Crusader, I thought it was an excellent choice - his acting has really matured, and I was curious to see how he'd pull it off. And boy, did he! He was REALLY REALLY good - different than Christian Bale's Batman of course, but played even darker. And he got 'the voice' right! That was one thing I disliked about the Bale-Nolan version. Also,
I LOVE Henry Cavill as Superman. He's the BEST By FAR!! He has the dorky Clark Kent part down, and his Superman is really a perfect blend of strength, valor, and good guy heroics. I'm not gonna spoil the film, but let's say, he'd better star in the next one!!
Jesse Eisenberg got slammed by some for his Lex Luthor, but again, I really liked his portrayal. He played the insane genius very, very well. Amy Adams is quite sexy and all (loved the bath scene!), but she didn't have that much to do in this film, although what she did was typically good. Jeremy Irons was a very unique and capable Alfred, and I really want to see him and Affleck together in a film!!! PLEASE, guys, do another Batman Film!!!! I wish they'd had a really good Jimmy Olsen!!! Gal Gadot is an interesting choice for Wonder Woman, and I'll reserve judgment until her film comes out. She certainly looks the part when in costume, but I was less convinced when she was in street clothes. Of course, no one can ever beat Linda Carter's WW - my personal fav. Notable mentions to Diane Lane, Costner's cameo, and Lawrence Fishburn - all under-utilized.
2. The Writing
The writing in this film was generally exceptional, and the theme was clear and almost perfect. Zack knows his craft, and I really, really, really liked the dialogue when Lex talks about God and Good and Evil. There were many tasty quotes (Affleck's "freaks dressed like clowns" and Eisenberg's "three syllable word to big for little minds" comes to mind). The fight scene between Bat of Gotham and Son of Krypton was EPIC! The outcome was totally unexpected, as was the film's ending... but all the little pieces in-between really drove the film well. I Do think these films would be even better without as much fighting, and at least Zack showed some restrain here. He should have shown more, though.
3. Production Design
Without getting too technical (I worked in Hollywood for 7 years), I wanted to highlight how well this was done, because when films get it right, you get a masterpiece, otherwise, you get a stinker. First off, of course Zach got the Suoerman stuff right, and the crashed ship of general Zod was sound. The Bat suit - all versions, from the standard fighting suit, to the hardened Supe-buster, to the desert warfare cover, was a home run. And the Batcar, while no 'tumbler', was exotic sports car-like, and the Bat plane - all done to perfection. The Bat lair was especially cool! So hats off on this - I'd give them an Oscar nom for the effort.
4. The Music
A GREAT score is one you don't notice, and in BvS, I can't even remember the score, which means it fit into the background as UNDERSCORE IS MEANT TO!! Music should serve the film, the film is not meant to be an ego-vehicle for the composer (which is why I have an issue with John Williams - his scores are more instantly recognizable on their own, like a hit song). The sound effects blended in nicely, and together, created the perfect atmosphere for this epic match.
5. Gestalt
The whole is definitely greater than the sum of its parts, and that's why I expect this film to continue making money for some time. I plan on seeing it again this weekend, because it works so well on the big screen. You should see it too, even if you've seen it already. I'm no shill for the business, nor this film, but when I honestly like a film, I want others to see it. The 2+ hours went by too quick, and the ending was the PERFECT cliffhanger that will ensure I come back to see the next film. Everything in the film fit together so well (my one criticism was with the 'Boss' - from video game terminology - the bad guy, who should have been more closely resembling Michael Shannon's Zod). So pay no attention to those critic fools, and see this film. Twice. If ANY film is worth your $10, this one CERTAINLY IS!