Why Has the DC Extended Universe Chosen a Dark Tone While Marvel Has Embraced Humor and Wit?

Why do the studios behind the DC Extended Universe (DCEU) opt for a dark and serious tone, while Marvel Studios prefer a more lighthearted and humorous approach in their superhero films? This article delves into the creative choices and the underlying reasons for these differing narrative approaches.

Director Zack Snyder's Perspective

According to director Zack Snyder, the DCEU has a distinctive dark tone as a departure from Marvel's more witty banter and humorous tone. Not all DCEU films align with this vision; for example, Shazam! and Aquaman have a lighter and more entertaining feel. Snyder emphasizes the importance of differentiating the DC movies from the Marvel films, stating that it 'works, but it isn’t for everyone'. Though he prefers Marvel's approach, he acknowledges that his own vision for the DCEU was well-intentioned.

Illustrating Darker Elements in DC Films

Questions like why Man of Steel and Wonder Woman are dark, rooted in Snyder’s directorial choices, highlight the complexities of these films. Man of Steel and Wonder Woman delve into themes of darkness and tragedy, inspired by the lack of similar tones in previous cinematic renditions of Superman and Wonder Woman.

Unintended Consequences and Rush Jobs

The decision to emulate the Dark Knight trilogy for DCEU led to rushed and less developed characters, such as Aquaman and The Flash. The only standout character in this period was Wonder Woman, who was given the space to evolve naturally over three films. Warner Bros. might have underestimated the need to cultivate characters at the same pace as Marvel, which provided more time for character development in its films.

Historical Context and Superhero Film Evolution

While the success of the Dark Knight trilogy was a benchmark, it’s worth remembering that the Christopher Reeve era of Superman also brought humor and cultural relevance. The comic book feel should be a blend of both dramatic and light-hearted elements, a lesson that might have been partially lost in the DCEU.

The Philosophical Divide

David S. Goyer, known for his work on Gotham and The Dark Knight Rises, introduced a darker, more grounded portrayal that was more relatable to modern audiences. His work on The Dark Knight remains one of the best superhero films to date, overshadowing many of its contemporaries.

Marvel's Influence and DCEU's Evolution

Marvel's approach to superhuman narratives, emphasizing the comic book essence of its characters, provided a counterpoint to Goyer’s darker style. Marvel successfully argued that its movies should reflect the intended complexity of its characters beyond comic book stereotypes. This perspective allowed Marvel to create a more diverse and relatable universe.

Warner Bros.' Strategic Decisions

Warner Bros. looked to their Dark Knight success to replicate its formula, which seemed logical at first. However, this strategy led to a lack of character development and a rushed production process, which derailed the DCEU's potential for a richer narrative experience.

Lessons Learned

Both DCEU and Marvel have much to learn from each other. Balancing a dramatic and dark tone with humor and wit is a challenging task, but it's essential for creating a compelling and enduring superhero film universe. The DC Universe and M?HP intent should continue to explore both approaches to find the most suitable path forward.