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Zack Snyder DC Return Teased: Cinematographer Says “Never”

Jennylyn Bartolome
Zack Snyder, Zack Snyder DC return [Image Source: COMICBOOKMOVIE]

Despite nearly two years passing since the end of the Snyderverse, hopes for a Zack Snyder DC return remain strong among fans, driven partially by Snyder’s consistent sharing of images from his days at DC on social media. The director of Man of Steel frequently posts throwbacks, prompting enthusiasts to wonder if these are hints about a future revival of his DC mythology.

While excitement endures, such interpretations have mostly been regarded as speculation with little substantial backing. However, a recent social media exchange with Larry Fong, renowned cinematographer and long-time Snyder collaborator, has reignited conversation about whether the director is truly finished with DC. Fong’s career includes notable work on 300, Watchmen, and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, as well as other mainstream projects, lending significance to any comments he makes about Snyder’s professional future.

Social Media Sparks to Life with Fong’s Comments

Fong contributed to fan speculation by sharing a frame from Batman v Superman on social platform X. A fan responded enthusiastically, attaching a #RestoreTheSnyderverse hashtag, to which Fong replied:

“Zack’s posting some past memories on Instagram so I thought I would too. They were good times. Don’t try to read too much into it :)” — Larry Fong ASC, Cinematographer

His initial response attempted to downplay any deeper meaning, urging fans not to overanalyze the post. Yet, when another fan expressed hope for a hidden message, Fong further stoked the fires of speculation by replying:

Zack Snyder
Image of: Zack Snyder

“Never say never…” — Larry Fong ASC, Cinematographer

This statement, made in direct conversation with the vocal Snyder fanbase, quickly became a focal point for discussions surrounding a possible Zack Snyder DC return.

The Snyderverse Legacy and Uncertain Prospects

Fong’s willingness to engage with fans in such a potentially suggestive way is noteworthy, especially given the intense support Snyder continues to receive from advocates of his DC projects. While his “never say never” comment can fuel hope, it’s crucial to consider Hollywood realities. The DCEU—Snyder’s main contribution to the DC Universe—struggled both critically and at the box office, failing to meet Warner Bros.’ aspirations and leading to the studio’s decision to move in a new direction after repeated disappointments.

Industry insiders like Fong, familiar with the commercial and creative dynamics at play, likely understand the low probability of Zack Snyder returning to DC. The most plausible interpretation of Fong’s comment is that it reflects the general unpredictability of the film industry, rather than confirming active talks or near-term plans.

Statements from James Gunn and Zack Snyder Add Context

To better understand Snyder’s position, we look back to February 2023, when persistent calls for the DCEU to continue—including suggestions it move to Netflix—were addressed by DC Studios co-CEO James Gunn. Gunn clearly rebuffed these suggestions, stating:

“I have to say, this has got to be the wackiest hashtag ever since 1) Netflix hasn’t expressed any such interest (although we’ve discussed other stuff) & 2) Zack hasn’t expressed any interest & seems to be happy doing what he’s doing (and, yes, we too have talked).” — James Gunn, Co-CEO, DC Studios

In April 2023, however, at the Full Circle event attended by actors Ben Affleck and Ray Fisher, Snyder indicated he would be interested in continuing his DC universe if an opportunity emerged:

“Look, I love the world, and obviously, I’ve not put a small amount of effort into this mythology. And we have done not also small amount of work toward what the eventualities of these scenarios might be. […] Would I be interested in whatever medium or whatever way these ideas would continue? Of course I would. But yeah, in the meantime, we forge ahead and we do what we do.” — Zack Snyder, Director

Gunn later clarified his stance, noting any lack of interest expressed by Snyder referred strictly to their direct discussions, as stated:

“I would think it was obvious that I meant Zack hadn’t expressed any interest to ME in our discussions, so you can quit spamming this on every single post!” — James Gunn, Co-CEO, DC Studios

This means that while Snyder expressed general openness to returning, he was not actively pursuing it, nor were there formal conversations underway between him and DC Studios.

Chances of a Snyder Comeback Remain Slim for Now

While Snyder’s fans remain eager for new DC projects under his leadership, and figures like Larry Fong continue to interact with this enthusiasm, all substantial indicators show that a Zack Snyder DC return is, for the moment, unlikely. The director’s previous works—Man of Steel, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Zack Snyder’s Justice League—are all available for streaming on HBO Max, representing his completed contributions to the franchise thus far.

Even so, the ambiguous social media exchanges serve to keep the debate alive, reflecting both the enduring fan passion and the ever-present uncertainty that defines Hollywood. As the landscape for DC films continues to evolve under new leadership and fresh creative directions, the question of Snyder’s possible return remains open—remote, but not categorically shut. Fans will continue to watch, speculate, and discuss, as even a single comment like “never say never” from a close Snyder collaborator is enough to renew hope for reviving the Snyderverse.

https://twitter.com/drewexmachina/status/1994891617887818177

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Jennylyn Bartolome
Jennylyn Bartolome