Disappointed by Zack Snyder's 4:3 Aspect Ratio in 'The Snyder Cut'
Back in 2021, Zack Snyder's 'The Snyder Cut' was finally made available on streaming platforms, and a rather divisive aspect ratio became a topic of conversation. While some fans were eager to see the extended version of the film, many expressed disappointment with one particular choice: the 4:3 aspect ratio.
As a bit of context, the 4:3 aspect ratio is the older, standard format used in television broadcasts and early cinema. After the widespread adoption of the 16:9 widescreen format in televisions and feature films, the 4:3 ratio seems outdated and almost archaic to modern audiences. So, why would Snyder choose to use this format for what is arguably a return to his artistic vision?
The 4:3 Aspect Ratio: A Nostalgic Choice
Some viewers, including myself, found the 4:3 aspect ratio to be jarring and inconsistent with the rest of the film aesthetic. The number of posts and trailers shared online in this format made it clear that the visual presentation was somewhat different from the usual widescreen look. Naturally, curiosity about the reasons behind this decision arose.
Through my own research, I discovered that this format is indeed the actual movie's aspect ratio and not merely a choice inspired by nostalgia. The 4:3 ratio was applied to the film to create a sense of intimacy and to better highlight certain elements within the frame. However, this choice prompted questions among fans and critics alike about its consistency across Snyder's body of work.
The Consistency of Zack Snyder’s Aesthetic
Zack Snyder is known for his visually rich and detailed films, such as '300' and 'Watchmen.' When watching his works, there's a peculiar uniformity in his visual style that appeals to his core fanbase. The use of the 4:3 aspect ratio, though, seems out of place compared to his other movies.
Some have suggested that the 4:3 ratio in 'The Snyder Cut' could be related to Snyder's desire to recreate the classic, intimate feel of certain scenes. However, this consistency across all his movies hasn't been the case. For instance, other films like 'Wonder Woman' and 'Justice League' did not adopt the 4:3 format.
The question then remains: why did Snyder decide to change his style for just one work? Was it a deliberate artistic choice, or a mistake that was missed during post-production? Time may offer us the answers as we delve deeper into the making of 'The Snyder Cut' and Snyder's philosophy behind the film's creation.
The Release and Format Availability
Despite the controversy surrounding the 4:3 aspect ratio, the eagerness to see 'The Snyder Cut' remains strong among fans. On May 4, 2023, the Blu-ray release of the film is set to debut, providing fans with a physical copy of Snyder's vision. While the 4:3 aspect ratio may be preserved, it's not certain if this format will be an option on the physical release.
Blu-ray offers a unique opportunity to choose the viewing experience, with 4:3 and 16:9 options potentially available. However, the excitement is palpable as we eagerly await the release. Will the 4:3 aspect ratio persist, or will it be a rare anomaly in Snyder's body of work? Only time will tell.
For now, the 4:3 aspect ratio in 'The Snyder Cut' serves as a reminder of the nuanced and sometimes conflicting desires within filmmakers when it comes to creative vision and audience expectations.