So from the start of their encounter, where Superman begins by trying to explain the situation to Batman, we see how the showdown between the two is solely a product of Luthor’s sick obsession and fascination with the heroes. It wouldn’t be totally absurd if we had a moment in the film where Luthor exclaims, “I want to see them fight!” He’s not only a creepy voyeur, but Luthor’s mania even borders on erotic as he practically calls for Batman to penetrate Superman with a long staff of kryptonite. “Bring me his head,” he tells Superman at one point before the hero dashes off to engage with Batman. Perhaps that’s why the scenes feels so false and comes to a close so soon.
