Since 2013’s San Diego Comic Con when this film was announced, fans have been eagerly awaiting “Batman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice,” the big screen debut of the Man of Steel and the Dark Knight’s first meeting. Now after three years it has finally arrived, so how does Batman V. Superman hold up? Let’s find out.

It’s been nearly two years since Superman’s (Henry Cavill) battle with General Zod (Michael Shannon) devastated the city of Metropolis. The loss of life and collateral damage left many feeling angry and helpless, including crime-fighting billionaire Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck). Convinced that Superman is now a threat to humanity, Batman embarks on a personal vendetta to end his reign on Earth, while the conniving Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg) launches his own crusade against the Man of Steel.

The direction and cinematography by Zack Snyder right off the bat make this film a visually breathtaking experience. The action scenes at play are a joy to watch and keep the audience on the edge of their seats, especially the titular fight between Batman and Superman, providing thrills, occasional laughs and ending in an unexpected and emotional way.

Contrary to what many feared back when he was cast, Ben Affleck is possibly the greatest live action version of the caped crusader put to screen. As Bruce Wayne he has the playboy philanthropist persona that he uses in front of the public, but when he is alone you can see all of the darkness that clouds his mind just by looking at his facial expressions. His portrayal of Batman himself is downright terrifying, with his build, his voice, his efficiency in taking down criminals, and an incredible new costume that both looks great and allows him to battle effectively. This is one Batman that makes you thankful you are not The Joker.

Henry Cavill has much more to work with here than he did in 2013’s “Man of Steel” allowing him to really show what he’s capable of, performance-wise. This Superman can’t seem to ever catch a break in the public eye, constantly being harassed, ridiculed and blamed for horrific actions he did not cause. You really end up feeling for this guy, and it makes it all the more commendable when he chooses the high route that many would find difficult to take.

Surprisingly, Jesse Eisenberg’s Lex Luthor really works. While he is nothing like his comic book counterpart, this version of Lex is a creepy, sociopathic, foppish villain who is as threatening as he is sadistic. His motivation makes sense but begs for a tad more development but aside from that he’s one villain that I anticipate to see more of in the future.

Gal Gadot is terrific to portray the first cinematic version of Wonder Woman, so much so that she had the loudest applause when she first appeared. She essentially acts as the gateway to possibilities for the future of the Justice League. On that note, there are many cameos and easter eggs that hint toward the DC film future. and while some are interesting to see like The Flash, others like Aquaman are a tad awkward and very out of place.

Even with all of the film’s positives, there are quite a few problems. The story is at times very disjointed and seems to just take some breaks to either go to a pointless subplot or set-up for future DC Comics-based films. Amy Adams’ Lois Lane, for example, could easily be removed entirely from this film and it would have little effect on the story. Fortunately the characters and action save this film from being a disaster.  

“Batman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice” is an enjoyable romp with plenty of spectacle, fan service, and great character moments to distract from the somewhat incohesive story. It’s sure to please almost any DC comics fan and entertain your casual movie goer.