Zack Snyder’s Netflix epic pushes boundaries, exploring darker themes and complex characters
Zack Snyder’s Netflix epic, “Rebel Moon,” often feels like a tribute to the iconic Star Wars franchise, yet it dares to explore themes and character arcs that Star Wars has never ventured into. Louis Chilton examines how Snyder’s creation diverges from its predecessor.
Initially conceived as part of the Star Wars universe, “Rebel Moon” found its home on Netflix after Zack Snyder’s pitches to Disney were turned down. A few tweaks later, the series became a standalone saga, borrowing elements from Star Wars while carving its own path.
While “Rebel Moon” draws heavy inspiration from Akira Kurosawa’s “The Hidden Fortress,” as does Star Wars, it adds a new layer of complexity to its characters. The protagonist, Kora (portrayed by Sofia Boutella), is a war orphan turned imperial super-soldier turned rebel. Unlike the heroes of Star Wars, Kora’s past is tainted by her actions, including the murder of the emperor’s daughter.
Chilton notes that while Star Wars has explored themes of redemption, it often presents them in a swift and uncomplicated manner. Characters like Darth Vader and Kylo Ren experience a sudden turn towards redemption, neatly tied up by the film’s end. However, “Rebel Moon” takes a different approach, presenting a messier and more realistic journey to redemption for its characters.
Boutella’s Kora doesn’t experience a single moment of redemption; instead, she grapples with the consequences of her actions throughout the series. There are no heroic revelations or cathartic moments, just a gradual and partial path towards redemption.
While “Rebel Moon” may lack the depth of adult-oriented content, it challenges Star Wars by taking its characters and their arcs seriously. In a franchise increasingly focused on spin-offs and crowd-pleasers, “Rebel Moon” stands out for its willingness to explore darker themes and more nuanced characters.
“Rebel Moon: Part Two – The Scargiver” is currently streaming on Netflix for those ready to explore a galaxy where redemption isn’t easily won.
