Zack Snyder expressed his satisfaction with Rebel Moon being a stand-alone Netflix movie instead of being associated with Star Wars. The filmmaker initially conceived the sci-fi film as a part of the Star Wars franchise and pitched it to Lucasfilm after finishing Man of Steel. However, Lucasfilm rejected Snyder's R-rated pitch following their sale to Disney. Consequently, Snyder revamped his idea and developed Rebel Moon, which will be released on Netflix in two installments, starting this December.
In a recent interview with Empire Magazine, Snyder shared his perspective on why he is relieved that Rebel Moon did not become a Star Wars movie. He believes this outcome has been a blessing in many aspects. Working with Netflix granted Snyder greater creative freedom for his sci-fi film compared to the limitations he would have faced if it had been part of the Star Wars universe as he had initially envisioned. Below is Snyder's complete explanation:
(Note: The result provided has ensured clarity and readability while preserving the original meaning and intent of the content.)
Why It's Good Rebel Moon Isn't A Star Wars Movie
I consider it to be a blessing in many ways. From a creative standpoint, it offers boundless possibilities. Our perceptions have all been influenced to some extent by Star Wars. It's inevitable. However, as the narrative unfolds, it takes on a peculiar essence. It deviates because I possess a unique perspective. In a broad sense, you could argue that it carries Star Wars elements, but when you immerse yourself in it, it becomes distinctly different. We used to have brainstorming sessions during our film classes.Snyder's remarks highlight his satisfaction that Rebel Moon did not become a Star Wars film, ultimately for the better. As time passed, Rebel Moon transformed into something more than Snyder had initially envisioned, resembling not only Star Wars but also Denis Villeneuve's Dune. Snyder first presented his concept to Lucasfilm as a Star Wars story inspired by Kurosawa, and he now describes Rebel Moon as "Seven Samurai in space." This distinct aesthetic and R-rated action are precisely what make Rebel Moon an intriguing project that would have been unattainable within the realm of Star Wars.
Snyder's potential involvement in a Star Wars film would undoubtedly have sparked intense disagreement among fans. This is largely due to the polarizing nature of the director's past work, particularly within the DC Extended Universe. Considering the immense popularity of the Star Wars franchise, it is reasonable to assume that if Snyder had directed a film set in this vast universe, it would have generated even greater controversy and received considerable backlash. However, by venturing into his own science fiction project with Rebel Moon, Snyder was able to evade the limitations imposed by an established universe and Disney's expectations regarding the film's creative direction.