Zack Snyder turns over ‘Justice League’ to Whedon after daughter’s suicide
COME November, fans and reviewers will likely see WB/ DC’s Justice League” and weigh the work as directed by Zack Snyder and completed by Joss Whedon. The wheels of commerce and criticism will demand it.
But for the moment, out of respect and sympathy, let us set aside the deep preoccupation with the sometimes cold machinery of Hollywood moviemaking.
Zack lost his daughter Autumn, 20, to suicide in March, the director told the Hollywood Reporter on Monday. In the immediate aftermath, what else matters but their family’s healing and our extended humanity?
In his commitment, Snyder continued to work on the tentpole film, save for a two-week break to deal with the tragedy, but now he has announced that he will turn the postproduction and a few additional scene shoots over to “Batgirl” director Joss Whedon (who is hewing to the Nov 17 “Justice League” release date). His wife, Deborah Snyder, a producer on the film, will also take a break to focus on her family’s healing.
“In my mind, I thought it was a cathartic thing to go back to work, to just bury myself and see if that was the way through it,” Snyder told THR on Monday, with his wife next to him in his Warner Bros. office. “The demands of this job are pretty intense. It is all-consuming.
“And in the last two months, I’ve come to the realisation ... I’ve decided to take a step back from the movie to be with my family, be with my kids, who really need me,” he continued. “They are all having a hard time. I’m having a hard time.”
The Snyders have seven children and stepchildren.
Warner Bros. Pictures President Toby Emmerich was among the many people close to the family who publicly shared his condolences.
Here is how some other friends and colleagues in the industry reacted to the announcement:
“My heart, eternal support — thanks to my friend — colleague @ zacksnyder — one of the kindest and most inspirational artists I’ve ever known.” — Geoff Johns
“Wishing Zack and Deborah some measure of peace — solace in the wake of their heartbreaking family tragedy. Love you guys” — Jim Lee
“My thoughts and prayers are with @ ZackSnyder and his family. Much love to all of them.” — James Gunn
“My heart goes out to you, @ ZackSnyder. I’m sorry for your family’s loss. We all love you, sir. I’m here if you need anything.” — Kevin Smith (@ThatKevinSmith) May 22, 2017
“Our hearts are with the Snyder’s and have been. Truly good people and friends to so many. xoxo” — WP-Bloomberg