Stranger Things Star Names Zack Snyder a Favorite!

Stranger Things’ Billy Hargrove actor, Dacre Montgomery, names Zack Snyder as a favorite filmmaker. Moreover, he sets one condition for joining Marvel or DC. Earlier in January 2026, while promoting Dead Man’s Wire, Montgomery shared his admiration for Snyder. Additionally, he expressed openness to the superhero genre.

Reflecting on Snyder’s impact, he said:

“Zack Snyder [is] one of my favorites to do amazing stuff with the superhero genre.”

Montgomery specifically highlighted Watchmen (2009), praising its:

“gritty, noir tone” and “violent” realism,

noting how it stood apart from standard superhero formulas.

Additionally, as a self-described “total cinephile,” Montgomery respects directors who retain strong creative control. Furthermore, he grouped Snyder alongside filmmakers like Taika Waititi, noting their ability to bring a “fresh perspective” to large franchises.

He added that working with directors who have a clear vision makes him feel creatively challenged and inspired:

“I’m drawn to projects where the director knows exactly what they want to create. That’s where I thrive.”

One Condition for Joining Marvel or DC – Stranger Things’ Dacre Montgomery

Regarding fan-casting rumors for roles such as Johnny Storm or Wolverine, Montgomery revealed that he would ultimately only consider joining the MCU or DCU under one important condition: the director.

He explained:

“I would be interested in doing anything depending on the director.”

Montgomery emphasized that the director’s vision and the story matter more than the franchise name or the size of the role. He continued:

Montgomery’s Recent Career and Projects (2026)

After a self-imposed four-year hiatus to “protect himself” from the pressures of fame, Montgomery has focused on auteur-driven projects.

Dead Man’s Wire (2026): Montgomery stars as Richard Hall in Gus Van Sant’s thriller about the 1977 Tony Kiritsis hostage crisis, released on January 16, 2026.
Directorial Debut: He revealed he is preparing for his directorial debut, having searched for the right story for nine years.

Montgomery described his hiatus as a chance to focus on meaningful projects:

“I’ve been looking for the right story for nine years.”

Overall, Montgomery’s selective approach suggests that any future MCU or DCU appearance will be carefully curated. Moreover, his admiration for directors like Snyder signals that fans could see him in roles that are dark, complex, and visually striking.

Clearly, Montgomery’s admiration for visionary directors like Zack Snyder shows his dedication to projects with strong creative direction. Furthermore, by prioritizing director vision over franchise fame, he keeps doors open for innovative and memorable roles in the DCU or MCU.

Overall, Dacre Montgomery’s candid insights reveal a deep respect for visionary directors and a selective approach to blockbuster franchises. Moreover, for fans of Stranger Things and the superhero genre, his words hint at exciting possibilities ahead, whether in Marvel or DC projects—so long as the director inspires him.