Director Profile | Zach Snyder (Film)

Zack Snyder - Director Profile

Zack Snyder has risen through the ranks of the film industry rather quickly, landing his first big success with his 'Dawn of the Dead' remake in 2004, which propelled him into Hollywood spotlight. At the age of 50, he has directed some of the most highly-budgeted, widely marketed blockbuster movies in recent history. With '300' (2007) being released to massive critical acclaim - winning multiple awards and being nominated for much more.

What I personally find the most interesting is his work within the superhero genre, he has made a name for himself online as the guy who continually adapts comic books into feature length films, for better or for worse. He has received both excessive praise and rampant criticism for his style of directing, another reason to find him so unique and interesting. Zack Snyder is currently a cornerstone for the DCEU (DC Extended Universe), kickstarting the titan of a universe with 2013's 'Man of Steel' starring Henry Cavill as Superman and Amy Adams as Lois Lane.

One of the key techniques he most often uses throughout his work are lens flares and camera shake. Camera shake is deemed by many to be more engaging and immersive for an audience and can actually be used to heighten a sense of realism; on the other hand several people have openly criticised him for the use of it, comparing it to a shallow Michael Bay action movie, rather than focussing on the characters and their emotional turmoil at the heart of the narrative. Lens flares are almost always added in post production and further accentuate Snyder's distinct look. They are designed and placed intentionally in order to draw attention to specific aspects of a shot, however I would argue that they can also be distracting to viewers, perhaps breaking immersion somewhat since the human eye doesn't see lens flares in real life.

'Batman Vs Superman: Dawn of Justice' is Snyder's most recent theatrical release and despite mixed critical acclaim, he continues to work on the highly anticipated 'Justice League' movie releasing at the end of the year. I personally find his style of shaky cam the most interesting, I think it can be used in a creative way in order to make a shot feel more natural, rather than a stationary point of view. Ironically this is also one of the things that makes Vince Gilligan appeal to me so much as well, and suits the nature of 'Breaking Bad', and in turn the scene I am aiming to adapt.