Supe’s back! In a treatment worthy of an icon, the Man of Steel makes a terrific comeback under the assured direction of Bryan Singer.

Superman has been away for five years, and Earth has moved on in his absence including his love interest Lois Lane. Things are not looking up for the man in tights on the professional front either as his arch nemesis, Lex Luthor, has been out of prison, and has been brewing a nasty broth.
Though the film has been mounted on a lavish scale boasting of impressive visual and technical effects, it is at heart about Superman and his lady love. Lois who is now a mother to a 5 year old, is seeing her assistant editor and has a Pulitzer on an article on why Earth doesn’t need Superman anymore - she is mega pissed. Supe’s gotta cope not only with saving the world on a daily basis, and Lois’ anger directed at him, but also with his paternal feelings for her son.

First things first, why you should see this film: Brandon Routh is a major find, and his expressive face bears a striking resemblance and is a tribute to the late Christopher Reeves. A relative unknown till now, he carries the film on his capable shoulders.
Kevin Spacey, reprising the role made famous by Gene Hackman, is terrific as Lex Luthor and strikes a fine balance between his light hearted self and harbouring a dark hatred against Superman.
James Marsden as Richard White, deserves special mention for richly layering his performance with emotional depth and maturity, as Lois’ love interest who has the unenviable task of being Superman’s competition.

Now the cons: As Lois Lane, Kate Bosworth simply doesn’t cut it as someone whom Superman would pine for. She is a major washout.
The second sore apsect is the finale. In comparison to the rest of the film, the climax is a dull and melodramatic affair with bits of religious symbolism thrown in for good measure. Wonder what went wrong? The film loses a star rating due to the weak climax.

Bryan Singer, who previously cut his teeth with the first two X-men affairs, is an excellent choice to helm the return of an icon. Barring the feeble climax, the film holds your attention for it’s 2 plus hours duration. Singer’s love for Richard Donner’s Superman is reflected not only in his choice for Routh, but also in his decision to include the original Superman Soundtrack, the original layout of the title credits and resurrecting a dead Marlon Brando by editing in his footage from the original.

On a concluding note, I’d love to see Routh as the famous Man of Steel again. Perhaps Chris Nolan should take the reigns the next time round.

Lois Lane: “Will I see you, around?”.
Superman: “I’ll always be around, Lois”.
That folks is music to my ears!

Running Time: 154 mins.
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for some intense action violence.
Cast: Brandon Routh, Kate Bosworth, Kevin Spacey & Parker Posey.
Director: Bryan Singer