2023 will bring the last remnants of the Snyderverse to their conclusion, but Zack Snyder is set to begin anew in an exciting new universe. Importantly, Snyder launched what is now known as the DCU with Man of Steel in 2013, and yet a decade later, that franchise is ending. It could never find the proper footing to deliver content true to its sources from DC Comics that could also entertain audiences of all demographics and compete with the MCU. Snyder himself was pushed out of the DCU, although the outpour of support from fans brought him back temporarily for Zack Snyder’s Justice League.
He’s kept himself busy since stepping away from the world of comic book characters and instead cultivating his own creativity in new universes and franchises. Intriguingly, Snyder might still be perfect for the MCU if they are planning on making a new Hulk film, but in the meanwhile, he’s got his hands full with other projects. In 2021, he launched a new zombie universe with Army of the Dead, and in 2023, he’s set to make his boldest venture thus far with the film Rebel Moon. With endings come new beginnings, and for Snyder, Rebel Moon is a very exciting and intriguing new beginning.
2023 Will Likely Begin Zack Snyder’s Rebel Moon Universe
Rebel Moon is an epic space opera from Snyder in collaboration with Shay Hatten and Kurt Johnstad that is set to hit Netflix sometime this year. There is currently no official release date, though since filming only wrapped up on December 2nd, audiences shouldn’t expect it until the tail-end of 2023 with only a limited theatrical release. Nevertheless, with the premise and stacked cast, including Sofia Boutella, Djimon Hounsou, and Anthony Hopkins, to name a few, Rebel Moon is among the most highly-anticipated sci-fi movies of 2023. A sequel is already in the works, entitled Rebel Moon Part 2, so Snyder is confidently diving headfirst into the franchise game.
Naturally, Rebel Moon will be compared relentlessly to the space opera juggernaut, Star Wars. In fact, it was once intended to take place long ago in a galaxy far, far away. Yet, over the years, it became a thing unto itself, though Snyder still shares similar inspirations as George Lucas by paying homage to Akira Kurosawa’s incredible legacy. Rebel Moon also centers on a young hero – Kora, played by Boutella – as she is thrust into a fray of a galactic rebellion. While clearly comparable, Snyder will certainly embellish it artistically and thematically, so Rebel Moon can shine all on its own apart from the specter of Star Wars.
2023 Can Properly End The Snyderverse
In light of how the DC Universe’s hierarchy of power changed throughout 2022, it’s for the best that the DCU, as fans now know it, comes to an end. Nevertheless, it’s a tricky puzzle to fix perfectly, as James Gunn can’t just fully reboot the DCU, nor can he restore the Snyderverse. Many things are ending up on the chopping block, including Henry Cavill’s tenure as Superman and Patty Jenkin’s Wonder Woman 3. However, some things might and should carry over. The best bet would truthfully be what Gunn himself was developing with The Suicide Squad and Peacemaker, and as such, the Snyderverse can be put to bed.
Importantly, 2023 will actually be the DCU’s biggest year yet, with four new movies being released. Up next is Shazam! Fury of the Gods, followed by The Flash, Blue Beetle, and Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom, closing it all out in December. Though he wasn’t involved, the Snyderverse effectively lives on with them. That brings its fair share of complicated baggage, much of it controversial and toxic. It’s for the best to just say goodbye to it as a whole and embrace a fresh start, and so, from the ashes of the Snyderverse, Zack Snyder can breathe new life into the IP franchise landscape with Rebel Moon.
