Superman I (1978)

Superman I (1978)

7/10

Starring

Marlon Brando

Gene Hackman

Christopher Reeves

Directed by Richard Donner

For me, this is where it all started—when Christopher Reeve bore the famous “S” on his chest, flying around as a do-gooder and kicking Lex Luthor’s ass.

With the bad reviews that plagued the new addition to the Superman franchise, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice (2016), the urge to see Christopher Reeve’s performance in Richard Donner’s masterpiece grew strong, and I finally gave in.

Reeve wasn’t the first actor to wear the red cape with an “S,” but he’s the most memorable (maybe because of my age). He also wasn’t well-known at the time of the movie’s release. The film cost $55 million (this was for both Superman I and Superman II as they were shot back-to-back) to make, making it the most expensive movie of its time. Out of that huge sum, Marlon Brando, who played Jor−El, took home $3.7 million plus a share of the profits, and Gene Hackman earned $2 million. Meanwhile, the relatively unknown Reeve was paid 250,000.

Most of the budget went into the special effects, which were top-notch for the time. While they might feel dated now, the story is captivating enough to keep you hooked once you get past the somewhat slow 45-minute intro.

The movie’s production ran for 19 months, and both Superman I and Superman II were shot back-to-back, though Donner didn’t direct the second part.

What’s worth noting in this movie is the life Christopher Reeve brought to the character. His portrayal of Superman is unforgettable and can easily be classified as the best among those who played the role before and after him.

This Richard Donner (Lethal Weapon 1–4) Superman is one of the best adaptations I’ve seen, and if you haven’t watched it, you’re missing out.

The movie starts with life on Krypton, where Jor-El banishes criminals for their crimes. He then warns the council about Krypton’s impending doom, but they ignore him. Jor-El sends his son to Earth to save him.

On Earth, he’s raised by the Kents as a young man with the ability to fly, super strength, and impenetrable skin. He grows up to become a news reporter at the Daily Planet, living a double life as Superman. All of this, of course, we know.

In this film, Lex, as usual, is plotting to destroy the world. But the presence of Superman poses a challenge he’s ready to face. Lex investigates Superman’s existence using details from an interview Superman gave to Lois Lane. He discovers Kryptonite, which he plans to use to weaken Superman while carrying out his scheme.

This is an awesome movie, both a critical and commercial success. It launched Christopher Reeve’s career, made over $300 million at the box office, and is worth seeing again.

Here’s another one for the archives.