Review: ‘Man of Steel’ is an Invigorating and Heartfelt Portrayal of the Timeless Superman Legend

Comic books have a way of creating icons without even trying. Let me start by saying that Director Zack Snyder’s highly anticipated “Man of Steel” is a good movie. However, the problem with reviewing movies like this is that it’s virtually impossible to do without comparing it to a legion of previous attempts—in this case the iconic 1978 film “Superman.” Many fans simply find no way to view another rendition of this famed superhero as acceptable amidst the accolades presented by Christopher Reeve’s portrayal of the Man of Steel, Lex Luther as the villain, or the sinister glow of green Kryptonite rendering Superman weaker than man. However, in “Man of Steel,” what we find is a supremely entertaining film. It is darker and more emotional, which should serve as a fitting new franchise entry to please both fans and newcomers alike.

One of the main differences between this film and previous “Superman” movies is the attention and detail it gives the lives on Krypton before sending baby Kal-El to Earth. Superman’s father Jor-El is here re-imagined as a man of action, portrayed wonderfully in a subdued performance by Russell Crowe. Krypton’s core has been irreparably damaged by drilling attempts to sustain energy on the planet, and is all but doomed. In haste, Jor-El and his wife send their son Kal-El—the first natural born Kryptonian in centuries—to Earth to give him a chance to live a natural life and to serve as a symbol of hope to the weaker planet. At the same time, a coup has begun by the strong willed military leader General Zod (Michael Shannon). This leads to his eventual defeat and exile—but not before promising to find Kal-El and reap revenge.

An Origin Story Done Right

The beginning of “Man of Steel” is quick and violent; the following scenes, however, are slow moving and purposeful. They set the stage for Kal-El—now the grown man Clark Kent—to discover who he is while fighting the morals of saving lives versus keeping his secret hidden.

Given unfavorable reviews of previous efforts such as “The Cold Light of Day,” one of the high points of “Man of Steel” is honestly the portrayal of Superman brought by Henry Cavill. He plays Clark Kent with the right amount of intrigue and heart, and Superman with the right amount of humility to make him a truly engrossing character. Its early scenes focus on a young Clark and the heroic acts he commits while attempting to hide his true identity.

A way more vicious and maniacal Zod appears this time around, played by Michael Shannon (Photo: Warner Bros.).

However, flashbacks show the moral nature instilled in him, a by-product of growing up on Earth and being naturally born. For instance, amidst his father’s reproach, he saves a bus full of kids from drowning and almost gives away his secret. The scene underscores the necessity of Clark coming to grips with the way he wants to live as he grapples with why he is different than everybody else. There is one scene in the film—which will not be spoiled here—involving Clark and his father on a highway that reaches deep into the man Clark is trying to be. It is one of the most effective and heart wrenching scenes in any superhero movie to date.

Good Acting from All the Major Players

Acting all around is very good. As Clark’s father, Kevin Kostner gives a heart-warming performance as Jonathan Clark, a man who wants his son to live a normal life even though he’s not sure he can. As Mrs. Kent, Diane Lane also does well. It is encouraging to see the movie cast so many big name actors and somehow be the better for it. Even Laurence Fishburn, playing the iconic Perry White of the Daily Planet, manages to blend into the movie, adding to a compelling story. There are no show stealers here. “Man of Steel” also uses Lois Lane (Amy Adams) in a fun and believable way—she helps uncover the story of Superman’s identity—as well as Christopher Meloni as a initially-distrusting military colonel.

Of the cast, Michael Shannon turns in what could arguably be the movie’s best performance as the evil and misguided General Zod. And though the breakneck pace and special effects that ensues during he and Superman’s inevitable confrontation will doubtless please fans of movies such as this (an entire city is in fact, destroyed), the only criticism is it feels as though writers David Goyer and Christopher Nolan (The “Dark Knight” Trilogy) cut a few corners in dialogue between the two, leading to an almost too convenient excuse for their battle scenes.

A Film Garnering Some Unnecessary Criticism

For instance, as a hologram of Jor-El entreats Zod that Krypton and Earth could live in peace, Zod’s dismissive answer surmounts to little more than, That’s too much work, I’d rather just kill everyone. Additionally, critics have thus far denounced the violence of “Man of Steel,” particularly the final battle between Zod and Superman. While we won’t spoil that conclusion here, I have to say that Clark’s actions are so thoroughly justified I don’t understand people’s problems with this aspect of the script. While one scene certainly goes against Superman’s ‘turn the other cheek’ legacy, given the destruction Zod wreaks in the name of Krypton (he knowingly kills what one could only assume to be 500,000 people), Clark can’t really ask him to sit down to peace talks.

Scenes between young Clark (Dylan Sprayberry) and adopted father Jonathan Kent (Kevin Costner) add heart to the superhero epic. (Photo: Warner Bros.).

“Man of Steel” runs a little long at 143 minutes. However, there is a good amount of back-story and plot to get through, so it’s ultimately forgivable. The soundtrack, in particular the new theme song, is absolutely gorgeous and haunting. It underscores a sense of tragedy and honor in Superman’s existence missing from previous incarnations.

A Great Opener Setting Up Things to Come

This is a good film. It’s well put together, well acted, and, at the end of the day, is one of the most enjoyable “Superman” experiences since the original 1978 opener. It sets up what we can only assume to be a franchise effectively, boasting incredible and believable special effects. And with Snyder, Goyer, and Nolan’s touch, it also adds a sense of urgency to the legend of Superman. It was time for an update. An invincible man of steel is captivating…but the more interesting story is not how he does it, but why. Thankfully, “Man of Steel” provides an excellent opening glimpse into this question we can only hope subsequent films will continue to explore.

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