Superman II (1980)

Superman II (1980)

7/10

Starring

Gene Hackman

Christopher Reeves

Margot Kidder

Directed by Richard Lester

Superman II picks up where Superman I (1978) leaves off, which makes sense since both movies were shot back-to-back. For me, this second part of Superman’s origin and introduction to the world is far better than the first.

The movie doesn’t rely as much on comic scenes as the first one did, and it delivers thoroughly on action scenes. The special effects are just as impressive as in the original.

Christopher Reeve stepped up to the task and delivered another groundbreaking performance as the man behind the big “S.” The screenplay is worth noting, too, as it captures enough engaging moments to keep you entertained.

I haven’t seen the 2006 Richard Donner Cut, which exists because Richard Donner was fired from the director’s chair after completing over 75% of the film. Richard Lester took over, reshot some scenes, and completed the version we see today.

There are considerable differences between this theatrical release and the Richard Donner Cut. For example, the way Lois discovers Clark’s identity as Superman is different. The Donner Cut is interesting enough to be worth watching. Another notable difference is that all of Marlon Brando’s scenes, recorded by Donner, were removed. Instead of Jor-El speaking to his son, we hear from his mother, Lara.

In this theatrical release: After the events of Superman I, the world has come to accept their new hero. However, an incident in Paris leads Superman to take a bomb into space to detonate it, saving the people of Paris.

His noble action backfires, as the explosion’s shockwave breaks the Phantom Zone prison, freeing General Zod and his henchmen. General Zod and his men were imprisoned in the Phantom Zone by the council and Jor-El at the beginning of Superman I.

Now free, General Zod and his men attack Earth with the goal of ruling it. Lex Luthor approaches them and informs them of the presence of Kal-El (Superman), the son of Jor-El. This angers Zod, who declares a challenge to battle Superman.

Meanwhile, Clark/Superman and Lois fall in love, and Superman gives up his powers to become mortal and be with Lois—before he learns of Zod’s arrival. Now mortal, Superman must face three Kryptonians with the same strength and powers as him, who are waging war against Earth.

Superman II is another classic Superman film. In comparison to the Superman films of now, which focuses more on his power and his abilities, this, like the Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman TV series, focuses on him as a person.