When writers face a roadblock, it can be a daunting task to overcome it. For David S. Goyer, a renowned superhero screenwriter, writer’s block led to a surprise creation – Man of Steel. Goyer took a one-week break from working on The Dark Knight Rises to focus on something new, and the result was a Superman reboot that redefined the iconic character.
The Dark Knight Rises’ rushed production and the quick completion of Taxi Driver demonstrate the potential for poor critical reception. In contrast, the frantic pace of Suicide Squad’s production resulted in a poorly received film. However, the controversies surrounding both The Dark Knight Rises and Man of Steel’s storylines have become celebrated in retrospect.
Writers often struggle with momentum, and Goyer’s experience is no exception. He credits his brief hiatus from The Dark Knight Rises as the worst case of writer’s block he’s ever had. The challenges in wrapping certain scenes and achieving a balanced sense of spectacle and action stumped him. Nonetheless, Goyer’s struggles led to a groundbreaking film that redefined the Superman franchise.
Thematic similarities between The Dark Knight Rises and Man of Steel are undeniable. The movies explore the characters’ mythologies, grappling with the difficulties of maintaining peace and the moral dilemmas that come with being a godlike figure. This shared focus on mythology and the struggle to uphold a moral code adds depth to both films.
Zack Snyder and Man of Steel Poster (Via IMDB)
The controversy surrounding the death of General Zod in Man of Steel has been a persistent topic of discussion. Goyer and Zack Snyder’s decision to have Superman kill raised ethical questions about the ethics of killing in superhero stories. This debate echoes the moral dilemmas faced by Batman in The Dark Knight Rises, emphasizing the complexities of being a hero.
Throughout his journey, Goyer has explored the concept of a superhero and the moral implications that come with it. Man of Steel was not the first film to toy with the idea of a superhero killing, but it was the first to actually go through with it. While it may not have been a popular decision, it sparked a necessary conversation about the ethics of killing in superhero stories.
Overcoming writer’s block can lead to unexpected and groundbreaking creations. The Dark Knight Rises and Man of Steel may have faced criticism, but in retrospect, they are celebrated for their bold storytelling and thematic explorations.
