Jack Snyder's 'Rebel Moon': A Star Wars Wannabe

Netflix's original film 'Rebel Moon - Part 1: A Child of Fire' has maintained the No. 1 spot in global views for a long time, despite receiving negative reviews from critics. It achieved 2.39 million views in its first week and topped the charts in most Netflix-accessible countries. Notably, the film garnered significant attention as a space opera directed by Zack Snyder, known for films like '300' and 'Justice League'.

Originally, director Zack Snyder aimed to create this film as part of the Star Wars franchise. However, Lucasfilm rejected the proposal, leading it to become an original franchise film for Netflix.

Perhaps due to this, the film gives off a vibe reminiscent of Akira Kurosawa's 'Seven Samurai' transplanted into the Star Wars universe. Soldiers from the evil galactic empire, 'Mother World,' arrive at a village of farmers to steal their food, and the protagonist, 'Kora,' sets out to find seven warriors to protect them.

As Rotten Tomatoes statistics demonstrate, it's not a well-made film. It becomes clear why Lucasfilm didn't include it in the Star Wars franchise. Kora's journey to gather the seven rebels isn't seamlessly connected. The film fails to explain why certain characters are needed, giving the impression that they're forced in simply because it's an homage to 'Seven Samurai'.

It also lacks originality. Most of the characters feel like something we've already seen in Star Wars films or Disney+ series. A more serious and eloquent C-3PO, a humorless Finn, and a more cynical Han Solo are among the main characters. The character played by Bae Doona, while wielding a lightsaber, isn't particularly memorable. The Korean traditional hat, 'gat,' she wears is poorly crafted, which was jarring to me as a Korean.

Nevertheless, the film faithfully answers the question, 'What if Zack Snyder directed Star Wars?' The film's appeal lies in its signature visuals, a dazzling depiction of space, and stunning spaceships and action sequences. If you're a fan of Snyder's action and visuals, this movie is worth recommending.

The film ends on a cliffhanger. Without fully developing the story, it abruptly ends with the text 'To Be Continued.' 'Rebel Moon Part 2' is scheduled to be released on Netflix in April. Given that the characters and their motivations weren't properly introduced, this ending makes the first part seem even more disappointing rather than generating anticipation for the sequel.

While the sequel might change the perception, based solely on the first part, Lucasfilm's decision was the right one.