REVIEW: “Rebel Moon – Part Two: Director’s Cut” (2024)

As a seasoned cinephile with over three decades of film-watching under my belt, I must say that Zack Snyder’s “Rebel Moon” director’s cut has been an exhilarating journey through time and space. Having grown up on classics such as Akira Kurosawa’s samurai epics, it’s a delight to see the homage paid in this modern space saga.


Zack Snyder’s long-awaited, two-part director’s cut of his expansive space saga “Rebel Moon” is now available, showcasing the filmmaker’s original vision. This release was made possible through a collaboration with Netflix, with a condition that Snyder first produce and distribute PG-13 versions of the films. He complied, and both parts received decent viewership but were met with unfavorable reviews from critics.

To set the record straight, the edited PG-13 versions were enjoyable, yet it was clear they were abridged versions of something far greater. However, Snyder’s director’s cuts on Netflix (you can find my review HERE) have been released as Part One, and while it covers similar territory, it broadens the world, gives more depth to characters, and sets up future events more effectively.

REVIEW: “Rebel Moon – Part Two: Director’s Cut” (2024)

As a longtime fan of Zack Snyder’s work, I must admit that his director’s cut of “Zack Snyder’s Justice League” (or “Justice League: The Snyder Cut”) has been a highly anticipated event for me. Having seen the initial release in theaters and feeling somewhat unsatisfied with its execution, I was eager to see how the extended version would flesh out the story and bring new depth to the characters.

As a film enthusiast, I must say that “Curse of Forgiveness” truly shines by enhancing its characters’ depth and relationships, culminating in the epic Battle of Veldt reminiscent of Kurosawa. The narrative unfolds with our main character, Kora (Sofia Boutella), returning to her quaint farming village alongside local ally Gunnar (Michiel Huisman) and a diverse band of warriors. Their mission: protect their land from the relentless Admiral Atticus Noble (Ed Skrein), who represents the cruelty of his Imperium forces.

In the world of “Rebel Moon”, Veldt plays a pivotal role that was previously underappreciated in earlier installments. However, the second part of the director’s cut brilliantly brings to light what this humble village signifies and why it’s worth defending so fiercely. Titus (Djimon Hounsou), Nemesis (Bae Doona), Tarak (Staz Nair), and Milius (Elise Duffy) are among the villagers whose heart-wrenching backstories, depicted through a series of flashbacks, show lives irrevocably changed by the Imperium. The film takes its time to delve into the warriors’ transformation as they settle in Veldt, fostering new relationships and raising the stakes. Each bond forged makes the impending losses all the more poignant.

In this upcoming confrontation with Noble and his troops, it seems Snyder was freed from his PG-13 constraints, allowing him to construct a highly intense, graphically violent, yet impactful battle filled with captivating visuals and fierce combat. This scene, both gruesome and exhilarating, is brought to life through a breathtaking blend of practical effects and digital artistry. The entire spectacle is orchestrated by Snyder’s unique and ostentatious style, which may alienate his more critical viewers. However, for others, the blood-soaked, operatic finale is definitely worth watching.

REVIEW: “Rebel Moon – Part Two: Director’s Cut” (2024)

In the movie “Curse of Forgiveness,” Boutella’s character Kora continues to be an exceptional lead. Skrein as Admiral Noble adds depth and intrigue as the main antagonist. Moreover, Anthony Hopkins’ character Jimmy has become one of the most captivating figures in the film. All these characters flourish in the complex, layered world that Snyder is constructing. However, Part Two raises more questions than it answers, hinting at potential sequels. While we don’t know when (or if) they will be made, this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a negative outcome. It’s exciting to speculate and wait, especially if the director has a clear plan. So far, Snyder hasn’t revealed any details about the continuation of the “Rebel Moon” story. I’m eagerly hoping for more information soon.

Although I found the PG-13 editions entertaining, they lacked depth and failed to captivate me completely. However, the extended director’s cuts present a different experience altogether. They might falter at times, particularly when Snyder pushes the boundaries of his R-rated content. Nevertheless, they provide a more authentic representation of the filmmaker’s vision. This is particularly evident in “Curse of Forgiveness” and its sequel. Together, these films represent the culmination of Snyder’s creative endeavors, where every emotion – be it agony, fury, passion, or sacrifice – feels justified. Yet, it’s important to remember that this is primarily a straightforward, old-fashioned spectacle. It’s an ambitious space opera brimming with action, living up to its creator’s promises. The director’s cuts were necessary to fully bring it to life. Currently, both parts of “Rebel Moon” are available for streaming on Netflix.

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2024-08-06 18:56