The inclusion of Zod has many connotations. Many might be wandering as to why use Zod again. If you are trying to differentiate this movie from the Donner films why reuse the same villain. To set this movie apart but still include Zod requires that a new and creative portrayal of Zod is necessary. Using Zod again means that the filmmakers are either unimaginative or are actually daring enough to truly distinguish this movie from the previous films by reinterpreting the character and thereby setting in motion a new take on the entire franchise. Therefore Zod’s inclusion could be an excellent attempt to overturn preconceived notions and establish new ones. Below are some ideas for how Zod could be re-imagined.
Reinterpreting the character
If inspiration was definitely a tool being utilised by the filmmakers then perhaps this version of Zod is in fact an honourable and patriotic individual. He is callous in the Donner film. What a better way to absolutely reverse that notion by depicting Zod as a person with noble qualities but fallible emotions. This could then be the means to lay a new foundation for this reboot especially with the prospect of using an origin again. This new version of Zod would be more patriotic than self-serving. Ultimately his angst (from the destruction of Krypton) leads him to become a threat to humans.
Zod mentors the young Superman
We have had ice palaces and metaphysical stereopticon versions of Jor-El instilling Kryptonian knowledge in the young Clark. I propose that Zod be the one to mentor the young Kryptonian. This could provide the ideal means for Superman to learn about his Kryptonian heritage. Also, it provides an opportunity for Zod to teach Superman Kryptonian military martial arts and fighting techniques. Zod could perhaps take some solace in providing guidance to Superman because he feels tremendous anguish from the loss of Krypton.
Zod as an outsider and enemy
Imagine Zod’s thoughts of humans as he bears witness to atrocities such as violence, war and civil unrest (especially since the civil war from Birthright may be utilised in this movie). Zod could easily conclude that humankind will destroy itself. His solution is to force a utilitarian structure on humans. This becomes somewhat reminiscent of a “New Krypton” ideal and mirrors some of the qualities with his comic book counterpart. The problem with this utilitarian notion (and something which Superman opposes) is that it imposes upon the free will of humans. This essentially could be where Superman and Zod’s mentorship/friendship ends and their aspirations simply diverge. Their emotional differences lead them to resolve their dispute with their fists.
Krypton and Brainiac
It seems obvious that Krypton will play a significant part in the story. An origin story for Superman is vital because it sets off the motivations that guide the actions of Superman and the villain/s. I honestly think that the individuals responsible for the planet’s demise will significantly help initiate a plot that is truly epic and how Zod can be reinterpreted for this movie.
Therefore, I am going to briefly define a possible scenario:
Krypton faces a cataclysmic threat from the Koluan scientist known as Brainiac. In the comics Brainiac is unsympathetic and merciless. Imagine the high-tech planet of Krypton playing an unfortunate host to Brainiac’s maniacal aspirations. He sets the planet on course for its imminent destruction. Zod attempts to fight back in order to save the Krypton. Ultimately, Zod fails in the attempt and Brainiac (who takes the entire planet’s knowledge) destroys Krypton.
Christopher Meloni’s role
Christopher Meloni’s role in this movie has yet to be ascertained. Recent news reports quote him as saying that he will play a general role in this movie. While he certainly fits the role of Lex Luthor, it is the term “general” that might be misinterpreted.
I had the wild thought that Meloni could play the role of Jax-Ur, the evil Kryptonian scientist intent on overthrowing the Kryptonian government. In Superman: The Animated Series he was portrayed as a military general. In the comics, Jax-Ur is responsible for the deaths of Kryptonians when he destroys Wegthor (a moon of Krypton). Perhaps, as a disgraced and disgruntled scientist, he betrays Krypton and forms an allegiance with Brainiac. He proceeds to help the Koluan to acquire Krypton’s knowledge and set the planet on course for its destruction. | |
Superman vs Brainiac
Brainiac can covertly begin establishing his presence during the course of the movie. He would likely seek out the most technologically advanced location on Earth (LexCorp) and begin to use it as a base of operations in order to establish what type of defences humans possess. His desire is to assimilate all human knowledge and obliterate Earth. Brainiac represents the malignant nature of extra terrestrials. He is also a symbol for how technology dehumanises. Probably during the third and final act of the plot, Brainiac’s menace is exposed leading to retaliation from the US military.
Superman, in true faith, comes to the rescue in order to thwart Brainiac’s plans. He finds himself pitted against foes the likes of which he has never faced before. He has to contend with both Brainiac and Jax-Ur. Brainiac’s physical strength, his mental prowess and the advanced technology that he has at his disposal make him extremely formidable. Up until this point, Superman’s heroics have involved simple saves (such as preventing a bus crash). He has not yet had reason to test the upper limits of his powers and saving people from a bus crash does not depict the true potential of his power. Therefore, as a young and inexperienced hero, he turns to Zod for help – especially because Zod is very familiar with Brainiac and Jax-Ur. In this case, Zod’s motivations are straightforward: Zod is more than keen to despatch Brainiac to avenge what Brainiac did to Krypton. |
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It would not be drama if Zod did not sacrifice himself in the end. Perhaps in some poetic way, Zod becomes part of Brainiac’s collection of shrunken cities. This makes Superman realise that he himself is also going to have to make sacrifices if he wants to be Earth’s protector. In other words, Zod’s sacrifice is an act of altruism and an ideal that Superman embraces.
Is it advantageous to portray Zod as honourable, patriotic and self-sacrificing. Even if the character of Zod were based more faithfully on the character in the comic books (as opposed to my version), he would be a formidable villain.