Wonder Woman
almost didn’t include one of the most iconic scenes in the movie, but thankfully director Patty Jenkins ensured her vision was realized. The DCEU made a lot of mistakes which eventually led to the reboot as the DCU
, but one of the few projects from that franchise that received widespread praise was Wonder Woman. With Gal Gadot in the тιтular lead role, this movie brought to life a popular character from DC Comics in a way that had never been seen before.
And yet, there was some pushback when director Patty Jenkins tried to include one scene that executives felt was out of place in the movie. However, Jenkins knew what she was doing, and the inclusion of this single scene adds so much to the movie. But it’s easy to see why others may have felt it didn’t belong in the movie.
Wonder Woman’s Director Has Explained That Her Favorite Scene Also “Made The Least Sense To Other People Going In”
The Director’s Vision Was Not Shared By The Rest Of The Team Initially
Patty Jenkins had a clear vision for how she wanted to see the character of Diana Prince represented on the big screen. Of course, she needed to be strong, powerful, and capable of taking down any rival. However, Jenkins also wanted to explore the softer, more tender side of Wonder Woman. Rather than focus solely on big fights, or tense, dark scenes, Jenkins wanted to see Diana become a shining light to people in need, which is why I believe she wanted to include the “No Man’s Land” scene.
But for others approaching the story, it appears that this scene felt out of place. Wonder Woman was developing into an action-packed superhero story, with epic battles involving the powerful Amazonian princess. The movie also showcased a variety of powers and tools that are iconic to the character, but this scene slows the story down briefly and shifts the focus from how super Diana is. While no one else could have done what she does, the “No Man’s Land” scene is also a moment that feels the most resonant for Wonder Woman and the audience.
Wonder Woman’s No Man’s Land Scene Is Arguably The Best Part Of The Whole Movie
Wonder Woman Becomes A Hero On her Trek Through No Man’s Land
While DC is clearly focused on exploring these god-like heroes, who stand tall above the ordinary humans, the comics also ensure that these characters adopt human qualities. They connect with mortals, they love mortals, and they see the value in humanity, despite darkness, weakness, and suffering. And when Diana Prince hears the suffering that these innocent victims of war are experiencing, she decides to stand up and do what is right, despite the challenge ahead.
The way this scene slows down the movie, and gives room to seeing Diana as someone who stands for hope, kindness, and protecting those who need her help, really provides a better insight into her character. Yes, other parts of the movie are more action-packed, fun, or tense, but this scene makes the character more than a god, it makes her relatable, and a hero. Honestly, without it, the movie would have been entirely different.
I Don’t Think Wonder Woman Would Have Quite The Legacy It Does Without The No Man’s Land Scene
Wonder Woman’s Best Outing Was In Her Debut Film
Obviously, the DCEU has a group of die-hard fans behind it, and there are plenty of high points in the franchise, but Wonder Woman stands out from the other movies in the series. While the tone of the DCEU was decidedly darker than other superhero films, it sometimes lost sight of the core idea that these characters are in fact heroes. In a short span of time, several iconic heroes became dark, terrifying caricatures who presented incredible risks to humans.
Yes, they eventually found a way to work together, and they were able to save the world from imminent threats, but they didn’t always feel heroic. Diana Prince proved herself to be a hero worth looking up to when she marched through No Man’s Land, inspiring others who thought she was crazy to follow her, and eventually saving people who couldn’t save themselves. As a result, Wonder Woman remains one of the best DCEU movies ever made.
Upcoming DC Movie Releases
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Superman
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Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow
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The Batman Part II