#20: Superman The Movie (1978)

I'm not sure how many little boys didn't want to be Superman growing up, but I can't imagine there are more than a few.  Like many little boys, after seeing this movie I ran around both mine and others' houses with a towel on my back for weeks.  This movie had a defining impact on my life by introducing to the world of dreams where right is might, virtue is commendable, and of course SUPERHEROES!

SYNOPSIS
This is the story of a child of a scientist who is trying to save a dying alien civilization.  In an attempt to save his only Son, he sends him away to earth with all his knowledge and love.  That Son is found in Smallville, Kansas by two loving parents who teach him right from wrong and to master his superhuman abilities caused by his exposure to the earth's yellow sun.  Eventually this child becomes Superman: the first superhero.

REVIEW
This story is fantastic and rings true to the human heart.  It is split into three different acts that could easily be movies of their own.  The first act is a Shakespearean space opera, the second is Americana hometown life, and the third is a comic book.  It really is masterfully put together, although I wish they had kept the original ending that Richard Donner, the director, had intended for it.

Christopher Reeve is a wonderful Superman (most don't know that he is an accomplished pianist and studied acting at Juliard). Marlon Brando and Glenn Ford were also brilliantly cast.  Whereas Margo Kidder was miscast, IMO.  I know they were really trying to get chemistry, which they did, but I still think they could have found someone better.  Lois has proven to be the hardest part to cast for in any Superman production.  I think the TV series Smallville cast the best Lois in Erica Durance.  Also I feel that Gene Hackman was miscast, or at least mis-characterized.  He was a funny bad guy, but neither a mad scientist or a brilliant billionaire.  They really missed an opportunity with that one.

The music is absolutely brilliant.  It REALLY captures the heart of Superman and to this day I think is some of John Williams' best work.

USELESS TRIVIA

• The Smallville scenes were filmed in Calgary, Alberta
• Both this and its sequel were filmed at the same time
• The ending of the first movie was originally supposed to be the ending of the second movie
• Marlon Brando got paid more for 2 weeks of shooting than the rest of the cast got combined
• The part of Superman was originally offered to several big name actors including Clint Eastwood, Robert Redford, and others.
• Is considered to be the 3rd real 'Blockbuster' after Jaws and Star Wars. 
• Steven Spielberg showed interest in directing the movie before Jaws was released, but then was asking for too much money after such a big success. 
• The original teaser trailer showed nothing but the camera going through clouds like the audience was flying. 

CONCLUSION

If you haven't seen this movie, I highly recommend it. The ending is bit much, but the rest of the movie is such a joy that I overlook it every time. 5/5 stars. *****