Login
I watched this movie back when it came out and only now I'm writing a review. I'm so embarassed. I'm a huge Superman fan and I think this is not only the best Superman movie ever, it is also one of the best superhero movies ever.
After the mediocre Superman Returns, I hoped a sequel would make up for it, so I wasn't particularly excited when I learned Warner Bros. would reboot the franchise. Fortunately, I was mistaken.
''Man of Steel'' reintroduces several classical elements from the Superman mythology to modern audiences, such as Krypton's decadent state or humanity's attitude towards aliens with superpowers. All of these were actually seen in comic books, but movies are meant for a wider audience, even those who haven't read a comic book in their lives. The story has a good pace and establishes the characters fairly quickly. It doesn't take its sweet time to explain things because the Superman franchise is one where everyone already knows what's what and who's who. Instead, the characters are free to do their own thing without being constrained by exposition.
I actually enjoyed the movie's tone. It's not as "dark" as other people claim, but it is definitely serious. The characters remain their normal selves and react the way you would expect them to in such environment. In the end, it makes for a more enjoyable experience.
Henry Cavill was a valiant and dignified Superman. He would have a hard time measuring up to Christopher Reeve, but he certainly prove he has what it takes to be the Man of Steel. I enjoyed the sense of humanity the film introduced for him, making his heroic actions more believable. At first, I had my doubts about a British actor playing an American superhero, but then again, it worked for Batman and Spider-Man. And boy did Cavill deliver.
Amy Adams as Lois Lane was a major hit for the movie. I also had my reservations about Adams, what with the age difference between her and Cavill and her red hair, but when I saw her on-screen, she was just natural. She and Cavill had great chemistry on-screen.
As for the villain, we have Michael Shannon as General Zod. After his appearances in Superman II and Smallville, I was getting tired of him but Shannon's performance made the character interested in him again. Zod also has very sympathetic reasons to do what he is doing, but he is also quick to remind everyone that he is a bad guy and Superman has a good reason to fight him.
Russell Crowe, Kevin Costner, Diane Lane and Laurence Fishburne are undeniable bonuses for the movie. Their characters allow us to see different sides of the Superman universe. The movie benefits from their development.
As a Zack Snyder movie, the visual effects are nothing less than extraordinary and really bring the action sequences to life. The music, made by Hans Zimmer, is appropiate for Superman.
The action sequences were great. A lot of people complained about the excessive action, but after five movies, it felt good to see Superman use his powers to their full capacity.
This is a great movie and I definitely recommend it.
