Zack Snyder’s Top Four Favorite Films of All Time
Zack Snyder—love him or loathe him—has carved a distinct niche in the world of filmmaking. With a career that includes everything from the chilling remake of “Dawn of the Dead” to the sprawling saga of “Justice League,” Snyder is a director who isn’t afraid to take risks, sometimes to the triumph of his craft and at other times to mixed reviews. Yet, what films does this iconic filmmaker turn to for inspiration? In a recent chat with Letterboxd around the premiere of “Rebel Moon – Part One: A Child of Fire” on Netflix in late 2023, Snyder revealed his four all-time favorite films, shedding light on what resonates with his artistic sensibilities.
Topping his list is none other than George Lucas’ iconic sci-fi masterpiece, “Star Wars: A New Hope.” With no hesitation, Snyder made it clear just how significant this film is to him: “I’m going to have to say ‘Star Wars,’ just because I have to. 1977. You don’t include that and you’re my age, I take small issue. I’d be like, ‘Really?'” Given that Snyder’s own “Rebel Moon” saga initially emerged as a concept tied to the “Star Wars” universe, this choice feels particularly fitting. The cultural impact of “Star Wars” cannot be overstated; it has inspired countless filmmakers and captivated audiences for generations.
Snyder’s other three favorites are Bob Fosse’s “All That Jazz,” John Boorman’s “Excalibur,” and David Lynch’s “Blue Velvet.” While he didn’t elaborate significantly on these selections, he offered an interesting remark: “Right now, for me, that kind of sums it up.” This suggests that Snyder’s tastes are somewhat fluid and can shift based on his life experiences. Nevertheless, these four selections present a fascinating glimpse into his cinematic influences.
“Excalibur,” released in 1981, stands out as another clear choice on his list. This epic fantasy film has maintained its allure for over four decades, especially among those who grew up in the ’80s. Its grand tone and sweeping visuals are aspects that Snyder has mirrored in much of his work, including his endeavors within the DC universe and even in the overlooked “Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole.”
On the other hand, “All That Jazz” and “Blue Velvet,” while classics, may come as more unexpected selections. “All That Jazz” is widely regarded as one of the finest musicals, even though Snyder has yet to delve into that genre. However, the film’s dreamlike quality might have influenced his visions for projects like “Sucker Punch.” Conversely, “Blue Velvet” is lauded as one of Lynch’s greatest works, weaving together psychological horror and noir elements—qualities that Snyder likely admires. While their styles differ considerably, both Snyder and Lynch are known for their unconventional paths in the filmmaking landscape.
Putting these four films together does present an intriguing picture of what inspires Snyder—a filmmaker who has built his career on breaking the mold. “Rebel Moon,” his latest venture, is currently available for streaming on Netflix.
