Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016)

Last updated:
October 20, 2024

Detailed Summary

The Battle of Metropolis

The movie opens with the climactic battle from “Man of Steel” seen from Bruce Wayne’s (Ben Affleck) perspective. Wayne witnesses the devastation caused by Superman (Henry Cavill) and General Zod’s fight, leading him to see Superman as a threat.

The Rise of Batman

Driven by the destruction and loss, Bruce Wayne dons the cape and cowl of Batman. He starts targeting criminals more brutally, indicating his hardened demeanor due to the events in Metropolis.

Lex Luthor’s Machinations

Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg), a wealthy and power-hungry businessman, manipulates both Batman and Superman, fueling their mistrust and animosity towards each other. He orchestrates several events, including the bombing of the U.S. Capitol during Superman’s hearing, to turn public opinion against the Man of Steel.

The Conflict Escalates

Batman obtains Kryptonite to use as a weapon against Superman, preparing for an inevitable showdown. Superman, meanwhile, is coerced by Luthor to confront Batman to save his mother, Martha Kent (Diane Lane), who Luthor has kidnapped.

The Showdown

Batman and Superman face off in an epic battle. Batman uses his advanced technology and Kryptonite-based weapons to weaken Superman. However, the fight ends when Superman, on the brink of defeat, pleads for Batman to save “Martha,” confusing Batman and reminding him of his own mother’s name.

The Dawn of Justice

Realizing they have been manipulated, Batman and Superman team up with Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) to stop Luthor’s monstrous creation, Doomsday. A fierce battle ensues, culminating in Superman’s heroic sacrifice to kill Doomsday with a Kryptonite spear.

The Aftermath

The world mourns Superman’s death, and Bruce Wayne and Diana Prince (Wonder Woman) vow to find other metahumans and prepare for future threats, hinting at the formation of the Justice League.

Movie Ending

The film ends on a somber note as Superman is buried. Bruce Wayne and Diana Prince discuss the need to assemble a team of heroes. In the final moments, dirt rises from Superman’s coffin, hinting at his eventual resurrection.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” does not have any post-credits scenes. However, there are significant teasers throughout the film for future DC Extended Universe (DCEU) movies.

Type of Movie

This film is a superhero action movie, blending elements of drama and science fiction. It sets the stage for the broader DC Extended Universe.

Cast

Ben Affleck as Bruce Wayne / Batman
Henry Cavill as Clark Kent / Superman
Gal Gadot as Diana Prince / Wonder Woman
Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor
Amy Adams as Lois Lane
Diane Lane as Martha Kent
Laurence Fishburne as Perry White
Jeremy Irons as Alfred Pennyworth
Holly Hunter as Senator Finch

Film Music and Composer

Hans Zimmer and Junkie XL (Tom Holkenborg) composed the film’s score. Their music adds a dramatic and intense atmosphere, featuring memorable themes for Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman.

Filming Locations

Detroit, Michigan: Many urban scenes, including Gotham City and Metropolis.
Chicago, Illinois: Additional urban scenes and the Wayne Financial building destruction sequence.
New Mexico: Desert scenes.
Michigan Motion Picture Studios: Various interior shots.

These locations contributed to the film’s gritty and realistic aesthetic.

Awards and Nominations

Saturn Awards: Nominated for Best Comic-to-Film Motion Picture.
Critics’ Choice Awards: Nominated for Best Action Movie, Best Actor in an Action Movie (Ben Affleck), and Best Actress in an Action Movie (Gal Gadot).
Razzie Awards: Nominated for Worst Picture, Worst Actor (Ben Affleck and Henry Cavill), Worst Supporting Actor (Jesse Eisenberg), and Worst Screen Combo.

Behind the Scenes Insights

Ben Affleck’s Batman was heavily influenced by Frank Miller’s “The Dark Knight Returns” comic series.
Gal Gadot trained extensively in martial arts and sword fighting for her role as Wonder Woman.
Jesse Eisenberg’s portrayal of Lex Luthor was intended to be a modern, eccentric take on the character.

Inspirations and References

Comics: Heavily inspired by Frank Miller’s “The Dark Knight Returns” and elements from “The Death of Superman.”
Biblical References: Superman’s storyline is often paralleled with Jesus Christ, especially in his sacrificial death.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

Deleted Scenes: The “Ultimate Edition” of the film includes several scenes cut from the theatrical release, adding about 30 minutes of additional footage. This version provides more context and character development.

Book Adaptations and Differences

Comic Basis: The movie draws inspiration from various DC Comics storylines, combining them uniquely for its narrative.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

The Capitol Bombing: Superman’s reaction to the bombing is a pivotal moment.
Batman vs. Superman Fight: The highly anticipated showdown between the two heroes.
Doomsday Battle: The climactic battle with Wonder Woman joining the fray.

Iconic Quotes

“Do you bleed? You will.” – Batman
“The greatest gladiator match in the history of the world: God versus man.” – Lex Luthor
“Men are still good. We fight, we kill, we betray one another, but we can rebuild. We can do better. We will. We have to.” – Bruce Wayne

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

Justice League Teasers: Files on metahumans, including Aquaman, Flash, and Cyborg.
Robin’s Costume: Displayed in the Batcave with the Joker’s graffiti, hinting at a darker past for Batman.
Knightmare Sequence: A dystopian future vision, foreshadowing events in “Justice League.”

Trivia

Ben Affleck’s casting as Batman was initially met with mixed reactions from fans.
Henry Cavill maintained his physique from “Man of Steel” and continued intense training for this film.
The “Ultimate Edition” is often praised for its more cohesive and comprehensive story.

Why Watch?

“Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” is essential viewing for fans of the DC Universe, offering a darker, more complex take on iconic superheroes. The film’s epic battles, deep themes, and introduction of Wonder Woman make it a significant entry in the superhero genre.