Zack Snyder is celebrating the 17th anniversary of Watchmen, sharing a series of behind-the-scenes photos from the production and reflecting on the film’s legacy.
The director posted the images on social media and wrote: “17 years ago today we released Watchmen. I shot this while we were filming—an old piece of 1940s Watchmen history sitting on set. That whole world had such a specific mood. Still incredibly proud of this movie. One of my favorites.”
The images include a staged “Watchmen 1940” photo featuring the Minutemen lineup, a close-up of the iconic smiley face button, and a moody shot of Nite Owl actor Patrick Wilson standing in the Owl Cave between takes.
Snyder recommends the Director’s Cut
Ahead of the anniversary, Snyder also reminded fans that there are multiple versions of the film and encouraged viewers to check out the extended version.
“Just a reminder. You’ve got one day to decide which version of Watchmen you’re watching tomorrow,” Snyder posted. “Personally… I recommend the Director’s Cut.”
Snyder’s Director’s Cut adds additional character moments and story material that wasn’t included in the theatrical release.
Large-format Polaroids capture the film’s mood
The images Snyder shared were shot on large-format black-and-white Polaroid film during production.
One photo features Patrick Wilson as Dan Dreiberg (Nite Owl) standing in the shadows of the Owl Cave between takes, which Snyder described as capturing the specific mood of the set.
“In the shadows of the Owl Cave. Patrick Wilson as Dan Dreiberg — Nite Owl — between takes on Watchmen. Shot on large-format black-and-white Polaroid,” Snyder wrote.
Another image highlights the famous smiley face button worn by The Comedian, which Snyder paired with the character’s well-known line: “What happened to the American dream? It came true. You’re looking at it.”
Watchmen remains one of Snyder’s favorites
Released in 2009, Watchmen adapted the iconic graphic novel by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons and starred Patrick Wilson, Jackie Earle Haley, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Malin Åkerman, Matthew Goode, and Billy Crudup.
The movie has developed a strong fan following over the years and remains one of Snyder’s most talked-about films.
Seventeen years later, the director says the movie still ranks among his personal favorites.
