Netflix has steadily been ramping up its slate of original feature films, and it looks like they’ve got another end-of-year banger in store with Zack Snyder’s Rebel Moon. Snyder, the legendary filmmaker behind 300, Man of Steel, and Army of the Dead, is teaming up with Netflix once again for an epic sci-fi franchise, with spinoff properties likely in the mix.
The film takes place in a peaceful farming colony, located on the edge of the galaxy, that’s facing existential threats from armies led by the tyrannical ruler, Regent Balisarius (Ed Skrein). A young woman named Kora (Sofia Boutella), however, is determined to dismantle the impending evil threat and goes on a journey to recruit trained fighters from neighboring planets to push against the attack.
Although Snyder had originally intended for Rebel Moon to be part of the Star Wars universe, the idea was ultimately shut down following Disney’s purchase of Lucasfilm in 2012. That didn’t stop him from creating something very similar in story. In fact, one member of the cast described the film as “like Star Wars, but with violence, sex, and swearing.” And if that doesn’t get you excited for the new original IP, I’m not sure what else will. Considering the film is scheduled to hit Netflix just in time for Christmas, it’s safe to assume that Rebel Moon will be a buzzworthy title to watch this holiday season. —Jacob Kramer
Director: Zack Snyder
Starring: Sofia Boutella, Charlie Hunnam, Anthony Hopkins, Djimon Hounsou, Michiel Huisman, and Ed Skrein.
Distributor: Netflix
How to Watch: Rebel Moon—Part One: A Child of Fire releases on Netflix Dec. 22, with a potential limited theatrical release.
