So Far, So Amazing For Watchmen

Amidst continuous news of lawsuits and litigation to boycotts against Fox Studios, we finally have an all-positive report for one of the most anticipated films of 2009: Watchmen.

Yesterday, Warner Bros. held a special presentation for Watchmen where they debuted nearly a half-hour of footage to an audience of press representatives. The footage included the opening to the film along with many other scenes scattered throughout the story.

Alex Billington at First Showing and Devin Faraci from CHUD were among the attendees at the event and both came away with VERY high praise from what they had been shown. Some of the notable remarks include amazing action sequences, beautiful visuals and awesome story-telling for adapting the graphic novel to the big screen.

I won’t detail the scenes that were shown – not that it’s a spoiler if you’ve read the book – but some of the ways it’s been translated to film may be. For more information on that check out the articles linked below.

What I will talk about are some of the details confirmed by Zack Snyder himself in the Q&A session after the footage was shown. Here are some key points that were revealed:

• The current length of the film is 2 hours and 43 minutes, so if that sticks, it looks like we’ll be getting a cut closer to what Zack Snyder needed to tell the story.
• They are working on a version of the film that includes the ‘Tales of the Black Freighter’ segments and those will be animated. These will be included in the DVD versions of the film, not the theatrical release.
• Mr. Snyder also debunked any rumors of a potential prequel that would build on the probable cash cow which will be the Watchmen – that is, if he has any say in the matter down the road (money talks).
• Dr. Manhattan’s Voice is that of Billy Crudup completely unchanged. Snyder feels that since the big blue guy can do literally anything, he would leave his voice unchanged as to not freak people out too much – not that the big blue glow would do that or anything, heh. Also, Crudup’s unique voice fits the role perfectly as it is.
• Finally, (and most importantly for some I’m sure) is that Dr. Manhattan’s blue private parts will be shown in the film.

With all this news, all I can say is: Bring it on! I hope this movie is the biggest, best, and most successful of 2009.

Watchmen hits theaters everywhere March 6, 2009.

Sources: CHUD, First Showing