Superman (1978)
#62 in my 2007 movie challenge was the Christopher Reeve Superman, still one of the best superhero movies, ever. The more recent Superman Returns pales in comparison, proving that special effects are no compensation for the lack of the original’s compelling casting of Reeve, Kidder, and Hackman.
The beginning of the film sets the stage for the next film, and details the destruction of Krypton. Brando is a commanding presence, but his flat delivery hints at a paycheck. It is a full fifty minutes until Reeve appears in Metropolis as Clark Kent, meeting Kidder’s Lois Lane soon after. And it’s finally at the 1:10 mark that we see the title character himself, and the film takes off with him. Reeve does a fabulous job switching between the bumbling Clark Kent and his alter ego. The chemistry with Kidder is palpable, and nowhere more evident than in the rooftop interview, one of the most romantic movie scenes ever made. Unfortunately, it is followed by the cheesy Kidder voiceover as he takes her flying, set to the strains of “Can You Read My Mind,” which went on to become a high school band staple in the 80’s.
The DVD extras are worthwhile, especially Reeve’s screen tests. A relative unknown, his looks and charisma made him suited to the suit, not ridiculous in it. They also hint at the strength of character he would be known for later in life.
