Why This Flopped Zack Snyder Fantasy Film Deserves a Second Chance

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Zack Snyder hasn’t always enjoyed a favorable image. While films like 300 have been well-received by fans of his aesthetic, the director faced significant criticism for his take on Justice League. Out of all his works, none seems to have been as negatively received as the 2011 film Sucker Punch. Despite boasting a strong cast, an eerie soundtrack of covers performed by star Emily Browning, and an enthralling opening montage, it failed to win over critics or the general public. The movie currently holds a paltry 22% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics labeling it as “awful,” “overwhelming,” and even going so far as to call it “disgusting and creepy.

Among the actors in the film, Jena Malone felt deeply disheartened by the unfavorable criticisms. In a conversation with Entertainment Weekly, she admitted that she considered leaving acting altogether following her role in the movie due to a lack of parts and chances that seemed to vanish afterwards. However, she persevered and didn’t let the reviews negatively impact her career. Now, around 15 years after Zack Snyder’s cyberpunk fantasy action film was first released, it might be worth revisiting for viewers who haven’t seen it in a while.

Jena Malone Almost Quit Acting After Sucker Punch Flopped

For those not acquainted, the movie “Sucker Punch” revolves around a young woman named Babydoll (played by Emily Browning), who finds herself in Lennox House, a mental institution, following an unfortunate incident involving her sister’s death. Her cruel and powerful stepfather aims to seize her mother’s estate and keeps her imprisoned as a result.

Among the initial spots Babdoll explores in Lennox House is a common area that serves both as a rec room and cafeteria. Here, she encounters some fellow residents, such as Blondie (Vanessa Hudgens), Amber (Jamie Chung), Sweet Pea (Abbie Cornish), and her sibling, Rocket (Jena Malone). To cope with her grim reality, Babydoll delves into an imaginary landscape where the ladies are employed in a brothel, overseen by a tyrannical orderly named Blue Jones (Oscar Isaac). His objective is to auction off Babydoll’s virginity to a man called the High Roller, symbolizing the prearranged lobotomy her stepfather had paid Blue to perform.

In much the same manner as in their institution, the girls aren’t willingly residing at the brothel, not even in Babydoll’s imagined realm. A character referred to as the Wise Man (Scott Glenn) instructs them that to break free, they require five specific objects: a map, fire, a knife, a Sucker Punch key, and an item of mystery which remains undisclosed until the movie concludes. Babydoll collaborates with her fellow girls in search of these items, and during their quest she constructs a different realm beyond her fantasy brothel where she assumes the role of a powerful warrior.

The plot of “Sucker Punch” is quite complex, but it’s precisely this intricate storyline that makes the movie captivating. It was expected to boost star Jena Malone’s growing fame. Her character, Rocket, shares a common ground with other patients at Lennox House. She’s bold, courageous, and seems wiser than her age. Moreover, she’s fiercely loyal to her older sister, Sweet Pea.

Unluckily, it turned out not to be intended for Malone. When the movie received unfavorable criticisms, she felt disheartened and considered giving up, expressing her feelings by saying:

Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant for Malone. After the film garnered negative reviews, she felt defeated and was considering quitting, expressing herself by saying:

I was so over the game and (I was) going to quit acting.

Before the release of “Sucker Punch”, Jena Malone had gained significant recognition as the romantic lead in “Donnie Darko”. However, despite her readiness for a major career boost, Zack Snyder’s 2011 film, unfortunately, did not provide the breakthrough she was hoping for.

Sucker Punch’s Take on Female Empowerment May Be Misunderstood

Critics may argue that the movie “Sucker Punch” is merely superficial, given its use of schoolgirl skirts and a deceptive air of innocence. Yet, upon closer examination, it becomes clear why many find it an engaging watch. The technical aspects are impressive, and the narrative offers a unique, intriguing layer, reminiscent of a lighter steampunk interpretation of “Inception.” While it’s not being suggested that “Sucker Punch” is on par with Christopher Nolan’s masterpiece, it does provide thought-provoking themes for viewers to ponder.

Sucker Punch adds a layer of complexity to the portrayal of femininity within action movies. The main character, Babydoll, is known by her nickname and has no other defined identity; yet, she maintains command over her surroundings through her self-constructed fantasy world. Initially, the setting of the brothel might spark skepticism. Critics may argue that they are left with limited information about Babydoll’s true identity, including details such as her mother’s death, her abusive stepfather, her accidental killing of her little sister, and her exceptional dancing skills. However, it is also important to note that she possesses significant dance ability.

From one perspective, the film’s cast is undeniably captivating, often described as visual treats or “eye candy.” However, this term seems ironic given that the same reviewers frequently critique the movie for objectifying its actors. Characters like Babydoll, Rocket, Blondie, Sweet Pea, and Amber are indeed visually appealing, but their presence on screen is hard to overlook.

However, it’s important to note that simply casting attractive actresses does not necessarily imply the movie has a lewd intention. In this film, there are no prolonged shots of body parts, and any scenes involving Babydoll “dancing” are swiftly cut away from. If Zack Snyder truly intended to sexualize these characters, he might have kept the camera trained on Babydoll during her dance scenes.

But here’s a counterargument: The director may have chosen visually appealing actresses not for objectification but to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the movie. After all, casting is a crucial aspect of filmmaking, and attractive actors can help create an immersive and engaging cinematic experience.

One indication that “Sucker Punch” tackled a broader message is evident in its conclusion. Instead of being liberated, Babydoll undergoes a lobotomy, while Dr. Vera Gorski (Carla Gugino) intervenes to prevent Blue from exploiting her. In doing so, Babydoll willingly sacrifices herself, allowing Sweet Pea and Rocket to flee Lennox House. This series of events subtly conveys the feminist undertones that Zack Snyder was delving into. Babydoll perceives Lennox House as a brothel because she exists in a world where women like her are objectified. Regrettably, her only means of escaping this reality seems to be through daydreams. In essence, the film presents a critique on the unfortunate ways some girls, like Babydoll, believe they must seek empowerment.

Additionally, Babydoll hails from a home where her stepfather exhibited disdainful and condescending behavior towards women. It’s challenging to measure the extent of his impact on her psychological well-being, but it could be one reason she initially seeks escape in a brothel. It’s not far-fetched to assume that she might feel devalued by men, given her stepfather paid Blue Jones for her lobotomy. Unfortunately, critics may have missed this deeper theme in Sucker Punch, which might have spared Jena Malone from the negative reception and any subsequent feelings of regret about her acting role.

The Future Is Bright for Jena Malone and Zack Snyder

Audience members might find it intriguing to rewatch the movie titled “Sucker Punch” with a fresh perspective. The female characters in this film are equipped with weapons like machetes, machine guns, and have combat skills, yet they also don elaborate skirts and high heels. This blend of strength and femininity is quite captivating. It’s worth mentioning that the protagonist, Babydoll, perceives Lennox House as a brothel, but she transforms this scenario into a realm where she fights against giants, robots, and dragons instead. When she “dances,” she’s essentially escaping to a world where she can channel her power to surmount challenges and opponents. To underscore the theme of female empowerment, she’s accompanied by a band of allies throughout this journey.

For those who find it hard to embrace the idea of female empowerment, they should at least acknowledge Zack Snyder’s proficiency as a filmmaker. The movie is visually stunning, boasts a strong soundtrack, features a talented cast, and just watching the adorable bunny mecha destroy enemies makes the ticket price worthwhile.

Fortunately for us film enthusiasts, Jena Malone persisted with her acting career following the box office flop of Sucker Punch. Since then, she has gained a new fanbase with her portrayal of Johanna Mason, and also appeared in The Neon Demon, an acclaimed art-house film featuring Elle Fanning. Whether Sucker Punch eventually finds its audience remains to be seen; for now, we eagerly anticipate what Jena Malone’s future acting projects hold.

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2025-05-17 03:22