Introduction

As an SEO expert at Google, my task here is to delve into the analysis of Zack Snyder's Justice League's Steppenwolf redesign. While it's true that the graphic update cannot change the original story, it does significantly enhance the visual experience. Enhancements like the CGI armor have made Steppenwolf look more menacing and visually impressive.

The Visual Upgrade: A 100% Improvement?

Comparing the original 2017 release to the 2021 Snyder Cut, it's clear that the 2021 remake has made a substantial improvement. With a far constrained budget of just $70 million as opposed to the $300 million of the Joss Whedon version, the team has managed to make Steppenwolf more of a formidable threat. The redesign portrays him as a new god who conquers planets with ease, emphasizing his power and aura.

Steppenwolf’s New Armor

The new armor design has garnered a lot of attention and appreciation. It makes Steppenwolf look more human and less like a rigid armor, which is a significant aesthetic improvement. The darker appearance aligns better with the Apokoliptian setting, adding depth and menace to the character. Although the spikes on the armor might not play a direct part in the story, they add a layer of visual complexity and power that the original design lacked.

Arguable Changes: Comparing Old and New

The redesign isn't without its critics. Some viewers prefer the original 'costume' for Steppenwolf because it might be more believable as a full-fledged suit rather than a CGI outfit. The old version’s shininess compared to the Apokoliptian characters seems out of place, making it look slightly odd. However, the new armor is more reflective of its characters and the overall dark atmosphere of the movie.

Steppenwolf’s Physical Presence and Threat

The physical presence of Steppenwolf in the Snyder Cut is genuinely more impactful. Scenes where he is unequivocal in his dominance, such as when he captures and confronts Atlantean guards, are even more awe-inspiring in the 2021 version. While the sizes are presumed to be the same, Steppenwolf feels significantly larger in the Snyder Cut, capturing the essence of being a godlike figure.

The Man Behind the Armor

Moving on to Steppenwolf himself, the man inside the armor, the redesign drastically affects his demeanor. The old look, which made him resemble Liam Neeson, doesn't have the menacing presence that the new design brings. The character in the 2021 version is more expressive and imposing, especially when speaking with Desaad or Darkseid. This change adds emotional depth and a sense of anticipation, making Steppenwolf feel like a character deserving of redemption, an element that was mostly absent in the original version.

Conclusion

While the redesign is undoubtedly an improvement, some elements might still be preferred from the original. Blending the two versions could potentially create an optimal viewing experience. For those who appreciate the visual leap, the Snyder Cut offers a more substantial and engaging portrayal of Steppenwolf, making the character more menacing and intriguing. This analysis showcases the balancing act between visual enhancement and narrative consistency, crucial for enhancing the viewer’s experience of Zack Snyder’s Justice League.