Superman Returns Movie
There have been numerous versions of the Superman story, beginning with the comic book. This was followed by several radio and TV series and movies. We hadn't heard from him for a while but the Superman Returns movie created interest in the super hero once more. The film did well at the box office, holding its own against other blockbusters, when it was released in 2006. Old fans of Clarke Kent's altar ego were keen to see the new portrayal and the younger generation was curious about it.
Directed by Bryan Singer, the movie featured a largely unknown actor called Brandon Routh in the title role. Daredevil reporter Lois Lane is played by Kate Bosworth and Sam Huntington is the Daily Planet's young photographer, Jimmy. The newspaper's editor, Perry White, is played by Frank Langella, a familiar face to many moviegoers. Another screen veteran, Eva Marie Saint, plays Kent's mom, Martha. The Superman Returns movie benefited from the involvement of Kevin Spacey, who had fun with the role of villainous Lex Luther.
The comic hero had not been seen on the big screen since the series of films, starring the late Christopher Reeve. Marlon Brando, also now departed, had played the part of Superman's father, Jor-El in the first of these. Footage from his scenes is used in Superman Returns. The movie was praised for its cast and special effects and no one will be surprised if there is a sequel or two.
The film picks up the story where Superman has been absent from Earth for five years. He has been on a quest to find his home planet of Krypton, only to find its remains. He goes back to Earth to perform heroic deeds once more and to re-ignite his relationship with Lois. Of course, he has to fight his nemesis, Luthor along the way. To complicate things, Lois Lane has a son and the question of who is the father adds to the plot. The Superman Returns movie was nominated for the Best Visual Effects awards in 2007 at the Oscars and at the British Baftas.
For those fans who want to see the film again and for those who missed its theatrical run, there are various DVD versions on the market. Superman Returns can be seen on DVDs with two discs, featuring extras, or a single disc. It comes in HD and Blu-Ray formats. There is a 2-Disc Special Edition, which is a limited edition, and a UMD Mini for PSP. Superman has returned to save the world again!
