Zack Snyder and Ben Affleck were the A-list team that was going to take the DCU to new heights. Each artist had visions to create a cinematic universe that could challenge Marvel’s empire. The DCU was going to be the MCU’s dark, psychologically thrilling, and thought-provoking counterpart. However, the disappointing box office returns from Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice simply led to a catastrophic Justice League. The films that were supposed to bring Snyder’s universe together only broke it down. After these failures, Affleck threw away plans to direct a solo Batman film and stepped down as the caped crusader. With Affleck gone, Snyder knew his vision had come to an end and gave his Batman a heartfelt goodbye.

“There was a time above.. A time before… there were perfect things… diamond absolutes. But things fall… Things on earth. And what falls… is fallen. In the dream, it took me to the light. A beautiful lie, Best Batman ever. Thank you my friend for blessing me with that fucking glorious chin and an amazing heart.”

During Affleck’s tour with Oscar Isaac for the upcoming film, Triple Frontier, the Associated Press asked Affleck about Snyder’s gesture. The star responded as follows:

Ben Affleck: Zack’s a funny guy, what can I say? [laughs]

Oscar Isaac: He’s got a good chin too, doesn’t he?

Ben Affleck: He does have a very nice chin! He shouldn’t sell himself short.

In an era defined by the intense pressure to achieve unfathomable cinematic goals, each star took time to become aware of themselves and joke about their failures. Whether you love or hate Snyder’s DCEU, the director always tried to maintain the integrity of his vision. Dawn of Justice attempted to give audiences a different look at a grotesquely saturated genre. 

Affleck’s Triple Frontier has made its digital and theatrical debut. Snyder will return to his roots and once again, work with zombies on his upcoming project, Army of the Dead. Each star bounced back from their plunge down the superhero rabbit hole. Their ability to publicly joke about it serves as demonstrations of the artists’ tenacity and character. Affleck and Snyder obviously maintain mutual respect for one another. One can only hope the two artists will be able to work together again.