A Sucker for Superman….
Yes, friends, in my never-ending quest for truth, justice and full disclosure, I must confess that I have been a sucker for Superman since the first time a comic book starring the Man of Steel fell into my hands – at age six. I read it cover to cover and would continue the love fest for many, many years. My adoration for Superman is a simple, straightforward and (somewhat) pure emotion, much like the character itself. Very unlike my dark and twisted relationship with Batman, but that’s fodder for another post….
So, let’s face it. I love any attempts to put the Man of Steel on film. There have been aspects of all Superman films (and yes, even the television series) that I have loved. Very little that I have hated.
I hated Margot Kidder as
Lois Lane. Of course, she was slightly better, and certainly ditzier, than the Lois Lane from the 60s TV show, who was stiffer than a board. Speaking of the TV show, I was not impressed by George Reeves as Superman. Even at the tender age of 7, I found him (gasp) fat! However, I adored Christopher Reeve and absorbed the Superman films in which he starred like a sponge. Lois & Clark was also fun, if somewhat predictable. I liked Terry Hatcher as Lois. She had just the right amount of spunk.
And as to Smallville – I don’t see it as much as I would like, but I am very impressed with the writing and acting. Just when you thought there was nothing new in the Superman franchise, they create a believable and credible prequel. Gives you faith in creativity all over again.
So it was with some trepidation, but with much joy, that I sat down to watch the newest rendition of the life of the Man of Steel – Superman Returns. And what can I say – big surprise – I liked it. Here’s why:
This film has good bones: solid direction by Bryan Singer, with much (justified) homage to director Richard Donner and the Christopher Reeve-generation of Superman films; the film included lots of the ‘original’ musical score remixed by the master, John Williams; and an old villain made new: Lex Luthor, played with joy and glee and eternal malice, by Kevin Spacey.
Brandon Routh takes on the tights with determination and gives an admirable performance, just shy of icon status. His Clark Kent (thank goodness) is less nerdish and befuddled, but more confused and in the background than Reeves’. Kate Bosworth as Lois Lane adds the right amount of woman scorned/woman tormented by emotion - and so for once we have hero and heroine both equally conflicted on the relationship front. It made for a good plot device.
Self-sacrifice and other New Testament philosophical elements abounded in this film, with Lois voicing right out loud to the Man that the ‘world doesn’t need a savior.’ (Wonder what evangelical Christians will think of that line - as well as the numerous times Superman floats back towards the earth with both arms outstretched, as if on a cross….coincidence? I don’t think so. Calling Mel Gibson….)
Overall, there are few surprises in the plot. Lex Luthor again quests for the ultimate land grab. Superman is again laid low by kryptonite. Lois insists she doesn’t love Superman, but we all know she does. I won’t add any major plot spoilers here, but suffice it to say the ‘big’ surprise of the film should be no surprise to anyone with eyes. Overall, a very satisfying, entertaining film that is safe for all ages. Rated PG-13 for some intense action violence. Go see it. Four stars.
