What defines a great superhero movie? This is a topic that would spark a very heated and potentially violent debate if brought up in any comics bookshop across America. It is also something that is very subjective, but there are a few things that very successful and beloved superhero films of the past have in common. I have narrowed it down to three specific elements necessary in making a great superhero flick.
The first is that the film must have great action. Not good action, not lukewarm action, but GREAT action. It must contain the kind of action sequences that cause your back to stick to the seat because you are sweating (and the sweating cannot be related to any pre-existing conditions, a la obesity). A great superhero movie must also have performances by its lead actors, who make us believe that these characters we loved so much in print are really coming to life. We cannot survive on actors who just look like our favorite heroes; they must also be able to walk in their shoes. And lastly these successful superhero films must have a story that keeps us yearning for more. We have read every comic, seen every animated episode, and we even have the bootlegged director's cut of the 1970s serial edition; we need more than just a rehashing of yesterday's saga.
All of these elements are absolutely necessary in making a superhero movie that will be respected and loved by fans everywhere. All of the X-Men films had them; each Spiderman thus far has had them; and even the Batman movies of both past and present have had them. (With the exception of that one with George Clooney. We don't talk about that one.) Today's question is, does Bryan Singer's Superman Returns have all of these elements, and is it worth getting all worked up about? I will divulge such information in good time, but first allow me to break down a little bit of synopsis for you.
Singer's Superman Returns finds the Man of Steel, played by Brandon Routh, returning to Earth after being gone for five years in search of his long-destroyed home, Krypton. He soon finds that plenty has changed in the world in the time that he has been gone. His nemesis Lex Luther, played by Kevin Spacey, has been released from prison and is — you guessed it — plotting a scheme to take over the world.
Article comments
1 - chantal stone
Great Review Neil....I think you hit the nail on the head, although I'm more critical of the performances....I just didn't think Kate Bosworth was the best choice for Lois Lane.
You're in Columbus right? Did you see it at the Rave?
2 - Andy Marsh
I was hoping you would tell me this was a good movie...I've been looking forward to the release...guess now I will go blow the money to see it. Thanks...great review!
3 - Neil Miller
chantal,
I saw it at the Arena Grande, in the THX Certified theather. And let me tell you, that made it all that much more enjoyable. I would recommend taking a trip downtown to hear what that film should sound like...
Cheers.