The original theatrical cut of Justice League, released in 2017, clocks in at 120 minutes (2 hours). While concise for a superhero team-up movie, this brevity became a central point of controversy and discussion surrounding the film.
The Theatrical Cut: A Compromised Vision
The story behind Justice League’s runtime is complex, involving a change of directors, studio mandates, and ultimately, a significantly altered vision from its original conception. Zack Snyder, initially at the helm, had to step down due to a personal tragedy. Joss Whedon, known for his work on The Avengers, was brought in to complete the film. However, Whedon’s involvement went beyond simply finishing Snyder’s work; he oversaw extensive reshoots and rewrites.
These changes were reportedly driven by Warner Bros. wanting a lighter tone and, crucially, a runtime under two hours. This mandate forced significant cuts to Snyder’s original material, streamlining the narrative and removing character development that many felt was crucial to the story. The result was the theatrical cut – a shorter, arguably more accessible film, but one that ultimately disappointed many fans and critics alike.
The Director’s Cut: A Longer, More Expansive Experience
The theatrical cut’s reception fueled the #ReleaseTheSnyderCut movement, a vocal campaign advocating for the release of Zack Snyder’s original vision. This eventually led to the release of Zack Snyder’s Justice League in 2021 on HBO Max. This version boasts a significantly longer runtime of 242 minutes (4 hours and 2 minutes).
Zack Snyder’s Justice League isn’t just longer; it’s a fundamentally different film. It includes restored scenes, expanded character arcs, a different villain, and a more epic, operatic tone. While some still criticize aspects of Snyder’s version, many consider it a vast improvement over the theatrical cut, offering a more cohesive and satisfying story. The increased runtime allows for deeper exploration of the characters’ motivations and backstories, providing a richer and more immersive experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Justice League Runtime
Here are some frequently asked questions that will help you understand the runtime of the different Justice League cuts:
What is the Exact Running Time of the 2017 Theatrical Release?
The official running time of the theatrical release of Justice League (2017) is 1 hour and 59 minutes, or 119 minutes. This is according to the official MPAA rating and various film databases. However, with credits, the entire viewing experience extends for around 120 minutes.
How Does the Runtime Impact the Story of the Theatrical Cut?
The enforced brevity negatively impacted the narrative. Crucial character development was cut, leading to underdeveloped relationships and motivations. The rushed pace also made the plot feel disjointed and less impactful. The villain, Steppenwolf, suffered significantly, becoming a less menacing and more generic threat.
Why Was the Theatrical Cut Limited to Two Hours?
While official reasons weren’t explicitly stated by Warner Bros., industry experts suggest a few factors. Shorter runtimes allow for more screenings per day, potentially increasing box office revenue. There’s also the belief that shorter movies appeal to a broader audience, particularly families with younger children.
How Much Longer is Zack Snyder’s Justice League?
Zack Snyder’s Justice League is 122 minutes (2 hours and 2 minutes) longer than the theatrical cut. This equates to more than double the runtime of the 2017 version.
What Extra Content Does the Longer Runtime Facilitate in Zack Snyder’s Justice League?
The extended runtime allows for:
- In-depth character development: Cyborg, in particular, receives significantly more screen time, showcasing his backstory and inner conflict.
- Expanded world-building: The film delves deeper into Apokolips and the New Gods.
- A more compelling villain: Steppenwolf’s motivations are clearer, and his connection to Darkseid is fully explored.
- Restored scenes: Many scenes originally filmed by Snyder but cut from the theatrical release are reinstated.
- A darker tone: The film embraces a more serious and mature tone, closer to Snyder’s previous DC films.
Is There an Extended Cut of the Theatrical Release?
No, there is no official extended cut of the 2017 theatrical release of Justice League. The primary alternative version is Zack Snyder’s Justice League.
Does the Longer Runtime of Zack Snyder’s Justice League Improve the Film?
The general consensus is that the longer runtime significantly improves the film. Critics and fans alike have praised the restored scenes, enhanced character development, and more cohesive narrative. While the length may be daunting for some, many feel that it allows for a more rewarding and complete viewing experience.
Are There Any Other Justice League Movies with Different Runtimes?
There are animated Justice League movies with varying runtimes, but in terms of live-action cinematic releases, there are only two versions: the theatrical cut (120 minutes) and Zack Snyder’s Justice League (242 minutes). Future Justice League projects may, of course, have different durations.
Where Can I Watch Zack Snyder’s Justice League?
Zack Snyder’s Justice League is available for streaming on HBO Max. In some regions where HBO Max is not available, it may be accessible through other streaming services or for purchase digitally.
What Are the Key Differences in Tone Between the Two Versions?
The theatrical cut aims for a lighter, more comedic tone, closer to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Zack Snyder’s Justice League, on the other hand, is significantly darker and more serious, emphasizing the epic scale of the story and the personal struggles of the characters.
Did the Actors Prefer One Version Over the Other?
Many of the actors involved in Justice League have expressed their support for Zack Snyder’s Justice League, praising Snyder’s vision and expressing regret over the changes made to the theatrical cut. Some have been quite vocal about their dissatisfaction with the 2017 release.
Is There a “Perfect” Length for a Superhero Movie?
The ideal runtime for a superhero movie is subjective and depends on the complexity of the story and the depth of character development. Some successful superhero films are relatively short, while others are much longer. Ultimately, the key is to ensure that the runtime serves the narrative effectively and doesn’t feel bloated or rushed.