"Too dark" is a criticism that gets thrown around in high abundance these days, which is somewhat ironic given that - not too long ago - "dark" was what everybody wanted out of their motion picture ventures. Remember when "the darker the better" was the big thing? Of course, Batman v Superman has already been attacked on account of its perceived seriousness; lots of fans who have sat through the trailer have written the movie off for being "too dark," a criticism that was also thrown at Man of Steel (in the case of that movie, the naysayers might have had a point - the film was executed in a rather drab fashion). That said, it might be way too premature to deride Batman v Superman for being "too dark." Sure, the trailers thus far have been on the serious side, but that doesn't tell us anything in actuality. Not to mention that Warner Bros.' President of Creative Development & Worldwide Production, Greg Silverman, disagrees with said criticisms outright:
"There is intensity and a seriousness of purpose to some of these characters. When you're trying to make a good movie, you tackle interesting philosophies and character development. There's also humor, which is an important part."
That's right: there's going to be humour, people, which Silverman has deemed to be an "important part" of the film. That confirmation aside, though, what is "too dark" anyway? Surely the only thing matters is that the tone of the movie is justified by the actual story? Whatever: it's no use worrying about it right now, nor is it helpful to plaster Batman v Superman with labels of darkness. More than likely, the film will find the right balance. Need more proof? Amy Adams, who plays Lois Lane, has talked up the "funny" nature of movie, including a comical scene featuring the Batsuit. Too dark, they say? Pah!
Sam Hill is an ardent cinephile and has been writing about film professionally since 2008. He harbours a particular fondness for western and sci-fi movies.
