I’m likely going to see Watchmen again tonight with a larger group of people, including several that have not read the comic. That subset of viewers is particularly interesting to me, as their reactions seem to have been generally more positive than those who are familiar with the source material. As for me, I’ll be examining the film’s dense detail with a more relaxed eye, but also attempting to put a firmer handle on the things that didn’t quite work for me. (Contra many critics, my impression is that the on-the-nose, ironic musical selections worked very well, but I might need the second viewing to be sure.)

This is great stuff. I just got back from seeing this, so I am still processing it. But I have to say that you encapsulate my experience with this line:

“That said, Watchmen is a fascinating mess, one that calls out to be scrutinized, explored, and savored, like a cinematic collage.”

I couldn’t agree more. Which is why I may have to see it again to give it a proper film review. I also agree with your thoughts on the films failings and successes being do to Snyder. It’s a catch-22 with that guy, because damn it, his stuff looks so nice sometime, and he is a wonderful alternative to the Michael Bay’s of the world. But is his slow motion really that much better than Bay’s hyper kinetic twirling, whooshing cameras?

All I know is I think I’ll be thinking about “Watchmen” for a while. Better articulated thoughts to come, but I just wanted to say your review will be in the back of my mind when I think about writing one.

Great job.