Director's cut
The divisive reaction toward the theatrical cut of "Justice League", with Zack Snyder leaving directorial duties and the theatrical cut of the film in the hands of Joss Whedon, led to an argument comparing the situation to the one experienced by the film "Superman II". Both "Justice League" and "Superman II" had a director who was replaced before the completion of the film (for different reasons), which led to a second director coming in and making substantial changes to the tone of the film. Richard Donner was able to complete his cut of in 2005. In the belief that Snyder had shot enough material for a finished film, a campaign for a "Snyder Cut" began online, to allow Snyder to receive a similar treatment to Donner. Arguments were made that Snyder's vision would be more cohesive to the previous films than the actual theatrical cut, which Snyder has not yet seen. Warner Bros. initially remained silent regarding any intention of making a "Snyder Cut". In March 2019, Snyder confirmed his original cut did exist, and stated that it was up to Warner Bros. to release it. In November 2019, "Variety" reported that Warner Bros. was unlikely to release Snyder's version of "Justice League" in theaters or on HBO Max, calling it a "pipe dream". In December, however, Snyder posted a photo on his Vero account, which showed boxes with tapes labeled "Z.S. J.L Director's cut", and with the caption "Is it real? Does it exist? Of course it does." On May 20, 2020, Snyder officially announced that HBO Max would be releasing his cut of "Justice League" on their service in 2021. The cut cost $70+ million to complete the special effects, musical score, editing, and additional shooting. Initially the cut was planned to be a four part miniseries, but it was instead eventually released as a four-hour movie. Snyder has stated that this version is non-canonical to DC Extended Universe continuity, existing in a slightly alternate universe. However, Jason Momoa said that James Wan's "Aquaman" (2018) takes place after "Zack Snyder's Justice League" rather than Whedon's version. Similarly, "Wonder Woman" (2017) director Patty Jenkins said that no DC director considers Whedon's "Justice League" canonical, and that she had worked with Snyder to ensure "Wonder Woman" maintained continuity with his film.