Superman Returns

Starring: Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth, Kevin Spacey, James Marsden, Parker Posey & more
Directed by: Bryan Singer

My rating: Over the Counter

I was majorly disappointed with Superman Returns.

Let's start with the big question: Can anyone really ever replace Christopher Reeves? No.

While Brandon Routh looks the part I have to say the makers didn't have the confidence in the actor to give him much dialogue through the film. He's monosyllabic and stoic with a lot less charm as Clark than I remember from the old films. In short, he's just not as fun to watch.

The story is also a bit shaky, as we see our hero return to Earth after a five year absence. Supes is *shocked* that life didn't stop after he left five years ago. That's silly in my opinion and makes Superman out to be a lot dumber than he really is. And why did he leave the Earth to begin with? I feel like I have no clue. There should have been some sort of catalyst explained but they best the writers come up with is that he wanted to see if his planet of krypton was still there. Isn't there a telescope for that? One of many major plot holes in the film.

Anyway, the directing is very well done by Bryan Singer. His shots are professional and flawless and he does his best to add as much heart as possible to Superman. Unfortunately it fails for me. I won't say why here (no spoilers in my reviews!) but it has to do with practically abandoning someone he should love.

The action sequences are quite breathtaking as well and probably what will save this movie from becoming a flop. When Superman saves a plane it's jaw-dropping cool. I had some problems with the CGI of his maroon cape - it's very rubber and fake looking and does not flow naturally like it should. Instead of being beautiful it's quite an eye sore in the film.

Kevin Spacey as Lex Luthor is amazing as well and is the only character I can say fits his part like a glove. He's crazy and wild, just like Lex should be. I loved him. The kid I could have done without however and he adds nothing to the story except wide-eyed cuteness, which I generally despise.

Overall, probably worth the admission price but there are some very slow parts that drag the movie on instead of giving the characters depth. Be prepared to sit through some slow scenes in between the action.

Another note: I saw the movie on IMAX and there were select scenes in 3-D. It was not as cool as it sounds. I wish I would have skipped the whole 3-D experience because it really was done poorly and I missed a lot of detail because of them.