Watching Zack Snyder’s Justice League, one can’t help but feel a bit frustrated about what might have been if the studio had embraced the grand vision presented in 2016. The movie hinted at an epic confrontation between Superman and Darkseid, a powerful 'old god' of the DC Universe, alongside other iconic figures like the Green Lantern and Amazons. Instead, the focus shifted towards smaller-scale projects like Birds of Prey and Shazam movies, leaving many fans longing for the larger, universe-spanning narrative Snyder had envisioned. From a fan’s perspective, it was difficult to move on from seeing such compelling setups for epic battles fade away. The Justice League movie teased massive stakes and a complex mythology involving Darkseid’s quest for the Life Equation and domination of entire planets. This narrative promised to elevate Superman’s story, turning him from a mere superhero into a cosmic force struggling against existential threats. Seeing this potential sidelined for what many consider less impactful or popular films left a gap in the DCEU’s development. What’s more heartbreaking is that the studio executives originally saw the potential in these big cosmic ideas but ultimately prioritized other projects, perhaps thinking they would resonate more with audiences. However, the passionate fanbase continues to rally around the concept of Superman battling Darkseid, hoping future DCEU installments might revisit this storyline. The blend of mythic storytelling and intense action could bring a fresh and compelling dimension to superhero films. In my own experience discussing these films with fellow fans, it’s clear that many share a sense of missed opportunity. The character growth and cinematic ambition displayed in Justice League’s original cut suggest that embracing these darker, more epic themes might have crafted a more memorable and beloved franchise entry. While the current direction of the DCEU explores various new territories, the shadow of what could have been—a grand clash of legendary forces—still looms large in the minds of many devoted viewers.