SUPERMAN RETURNS is an iconic and emotionally resonant superhero movie. Following the mythology as laid down in Richard Donner’s original film, Bryan Singer and company have brought us the kind of movie that SUPERMAN III should have been. Ignoring the two SUPERMAN sequels that are best left ignored, the plot of SUPERMAN RETURNS follows a logical progression in the lives of the characters. Brandon Routh is a near perfect Superman, capturing the spirit of Christopher Reeve’s performance- from the humbleness of his Man of Steel to the awkwardness of his Clark Kent. Routh, however, also brings his own special quality to dual character; immediately making it his own. Equally perfect is Kevin Spacey’s Lex Luthor- certainly more menacing that Gene Hackman in the role, but maintaining the slight comic tinge. Okay, I’ll admit the film is not wholly perfect, but SUPERMAN RETURNS is a wonderful first act on a reinvigorated franchise. I can’t wait to see what happens next. In the mean time, I am happy to report that Superman has indeed returned… and its about time.

This Theatrical Brief is Copyright © 2006 THE CINEMA LASER and may not be copied or reprinted without the written consent of the publisher.
THE CINEMA LASER is written, edited and published by Derek M. Germano.