28 June 2006
Superman Returns
Directed by: Bryan Singer
Starring: Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth and Kevin Spacey
Do you absolutely adore the original Richard Donner version of Superman? Bryan Singer does. And this is a borderline remake. That’s either a really good thing, or a very bad thing depending on your response to the first question.
It’s smart, it looks great both in setting and style and it is an interesting take on the continuity of the franchise, but it’s a little thick and not entirely *new*.
I have issues with creepy stalker Superman, and neglectful mother Lois Lane, and uber-criminal mastermind Lex Luther conning an old lady… but most of all I think the movie could have used a more obvious foil for the Man of Steel to provide some more action. Climactic battle scene: Superman vs a Rock.
Definite highlight: Kumar kicks Supes’ ass.
Hits rock-bottom:Â The reveal at the end with the kid (trying to avoid a spoiler)
Bottom Line: It’s not stupid, and it is a good re-start to the franchise, but still overall disappointing (unless you’re a super-fan of Donner’s original 1 1/2 Superman flicks).
