“Insane world building”: Zack Snyder’s Rebel Moon May Have Surpassed Star Wars in 1 Category
The first reactions to Zack Snyder’s sci-fi epic Rebel Moon are pouring in after its UK premiere, with multiple reviewers praising the film for its “insane world-building” that some say even surpasses Star Wars. Originally conceived as Snyder’s pitch for a Star Wars film, Rebel Moon ultimately morphed into an original story set in a universe ruled by a corrupt totalitarian government. When the peaceful mining colony of Veldt comes under threat, a young woman named Kora (Sofia Boutella) sets out on a mission to build an army to challenge the evil regime.
Does Rebel Moon Improve Upon Star Wars’ Famed World-Building?
Several early viewers emphasized Rebel Moon’s extensive mythology and imaginative environments as major strengths. GamesRadar+’s Molly Edwards called the world-building “fascinating,” while Sunny Ramgolam said the film “excels in action” with “so much to explore.”
NO! Zack Snyder’s Rebel Moon does not suffer from Part 1 syndrome. Genuinely incredible especially in its 3rd act. Insane world building. Any character can die at any moment & it definitely teases part 2 in a big way while standing on its own feet. LOVED THIS!!!! pic.twitter.com/oAx6hPuRIa
— Matt Ramos (@therealsupes) December 14, 2023
Ramgolam went so far as to say Rebel Moon surpasses the Star Wars series itself in building out the corners of its cinematic universe. That’s high praise considering Star Wars largely set the template for immersive sci-fi/fantasy storytelling on an epic scale. Here are some fan reactions:
Fuck! I’m so excited for Rebel Moon!
— christian⚡️ (@christianpeakss) December 14, 2023
Read a review that said I watched it a walked out the theater for the first time 😂no way this movie is bad not at all
— Ryuu Saki (@QgtharoninSaki) December 14, 2023
It suffers from success
— Mike Schwifty (@Snyderbot2049) December 14, 2023
I’m so fucking keen and zachy better make 300 3 after he’s done with this story
— hahahahahahahaha (@Baghdaddy001) December 14, 2023
If Zack Snyder manages to craft a fictional universe with the same cultural footprint as Star Wars, it would take Rebel Moon’s ambitions from lofty to legitimately achieved. Of course, it took George Lucas multiple Star Wars films to fully realize his visionary world, often through trial and error.
Does Part One Suffer From Incomplete Storytelling?
Since Rebel Moon is planned as a two-part saga, some reviewers pointed out the first installment feels incomplete narratively. The film spends ample time on world-building and character introductions to set up an explosive conflict in Part Two rather than serving as a wholly standalone story.
Maria Lattila said Rebel Moon “suffers from Part One Syndrome,” no doubt a common issue for split tentpole movies that essentially act as an extended first act.
Still, other critics highlighted plenty of spectacular action sequences and striking visuals to satisfy genre fans even with the interrupted main storyline. And most agreed Rebel Moon’s epic cliffhanger left them eagerly anticipating the next chapter.
What Does the Future Hold for Rebel Moon?
If Snyder manages to stick the landing with Part Two, Rebel Moon could launch a major multimedia sci-fi/fantasy franchise for Netflix. The director has spoken of his desire to further explore characters and storylines across streaming movies, anime series, novels, and comics set in the evocative cinematic universe.
With critics highlighting Rebel Moon’s immense scope and boundary-pushing action theatrics, Snyder appears to have constructed a sandbox bursting with potential. And if he continues to build out the world’s intricate lore and high-stakes drama, Rebel Moon may give Star Wars a run for its money as the reigning champion of blockbuster world-building.
