I watched the Man of Steel the other day and I can honestly say I have never been so nervous going into a movie. This movie has been getting mixed reviews from fans and critics a like. And being a fan of superheros and comics in general I wanted this film to be an experience. From the beginning this movie was in a tough spot there is a lot riding on the success of this film. If the film didn’t hold its own the chance of a Justice League movie would be shot. It’s also the 75th anniversary of the character. But most of all if the film didn’t work it would be awhile until someone had the stones to reboot the franchise once again. So did the film live up to the daunting task of bring this hero to modern times and making us believe it?
Yes, I think it has. This movie is not the perfect film and frankly there is no such thing as a perfect movie. This movie is about an alien trying to figure out who he is and what his purpose is on this planet. The character of Superman is extremely complex. He feels alone, living a life that isn’t his, hiding his true self until he can dawn his tights and cape and reaches his full potential. And that’s what this movie is about. That journey.
One of the aspects that I really liked about the film is how they jumped back and forth into those defining moments in Kal-El’s life. To the moments where his adopted parents shaped his values and beliefs. It’s not something you see often in a superhero movie with all those flash backs. And I think it worked well. It gave you an insight into those moments, but didn’t overwhelm you with too much back story all at once.
I have to say the cast was amazing. Harvy Cavill is Superman, he embodies the role well. Even though I feel like we have only scratched the surface into his character, he played it well. We even see a glimpse of some humor from him, in an otherwise somber performance given the tone of the film. There is no doubt in my mind that his character will be explored deeper in future films. Kevin Costner and Russell Crowe had some of the best acting in the film and that’s super important as these two father figures play an essential part of shaping both Clark Kent and Kal-El. Actually in the case of Russell Crowe, I never really liked him at all as an actor, but his performance as Jor-El is spot on and should be applauded. The only casting choice that I am not sure about is Amy Adams as Lois Lane. I don’t feel that she really represents the tough investigative journalist that Lois is suppose to be. That being said I will give her the benefit of the doubt that her character will grow, given that this film again is about Kal-El’s journey to become Superman.
Overall I think the movie is a good re-introduction to the character. And I give this movie a passing grade. It’s worth a watch in theater. I just hope in future films we continue to see tremendous character development. This is a very good jumping off point for the DC universe. What are your thoughts on this movie? Sound off in comments!
-Tony-
THE MIDNITE EDITION 