Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), PG-13, 2 hr 31 min

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice

Year: 2016
Franchise: DC Extended Universe (DCEU)
Franchise #: 2
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Total Runtime: 151 minutes (Theatrical) / 183 minutes (Ultimate Edition)
Tagline: “Who will win?” / “Justice or vengeance?”


Main Cast
Ben Affleck as Bruce Wayne / Batman
Henry Cavill as Clark Kent / Superman
Gal Gadot as Diana Prince / Wonder Woman
Amy Adams as Lois Lane
Jesse Eisenberg as Lex Luthor
Jeremy Irons as Alfred Pennyworth
Holly Hunter as Senator Finch
Diane Lane as Martha Kent
Laurence Fishburne as Perry White

Reviews
Synopsis: This is where Batman and Superman collide—literally. Bruce Wayne sees Superman as a dangerous alien threat after the destruction in Man of Steel. Meanwhile, Superman questions Batman’s brutal vigilante tactics. Their conflict is manipulated by Lex Luthor, who creates a monstrous enemy that forces the heroes (and Wonder Woman!) to unite. The stakes? Nothing less than the fate of the world.

Overview: This film is dark, intense, and philosophical—more of a mythic tragedy than a traditional superhero movie. It explores what happens when gods walk among men and how fear, misunderstanding, and trauma shape justice. The Ultimate Edition improves pacing and clarity, offering a deeper experience. It’s divisive: some found it brooding and overstuffed; others saw it as epic and thought-provoking.

Family Friendliness: This movie is not for young kids. The violence is heavy—explosions, destruction, fistfights, and a monster battle at the end. There’s a dream sequence involving demonic imagery and Superman as a tyrant. No graphic language or sex, but the mature tone, moral ambiguity, and long runtime make it more suitable for teens and adults.

Christian Perspective: The movie is loaded with religious themes. Superman is portrayed as a god-like figure who struggles with public opinion, martyrdom, and whether humanity is worth saving. Batman’s journey is one of repentance—from vengeance to redemption. Lex Luthor mocks God and tries to create his own false messiah. The climactic sacrificial death of Superman draws heavy parallels to the crucifixion. For Christians, this film offers deep symbolic material—but discernment is needed due to the dark tone.

Critics Ratings
My Rating: 6/10
Dove Foundation: ❌ Not Dove-Approved
IMDb: 6.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes: Critics: 29%, Audience: 63%
Metacritic: 44/100

Notable Scenes
Bruce Wayne in Metropolis – A boots-on-the-ground view of Superman’s destruction

Batmobile Chase – Batman’s brutal pursuit of criminals

Warehouse Fight – One of the best Batman fight scenes in cinema

Doomsday Battle – Superman, Batman, and Wonder Woman unite for the first time

Superman’s Funeral – A mournful and symbolic send-off echoing Christ’s burial

Knightmare Sequence – Batman’s apocalyptic dream of a future ruled by evil Superman

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