
This review contains NO Spoilers!!!
If you go in to 'Superman - Man Of Steel' expecting to recapture the incredible feeling you got back in 1978 when you first saw 'Superman The Movie', I will tell you now, you'll be disappointed. But if you go in expecting a modern take on Superman, you will fall in right away!
First of all, we start out by seeing this is not your fathers Krypton! Krypton is dying but before its destruction, war and political coup is in effect and this will be a key throughout the film.
Next you will notice the overall feel of the film is dark and moody, like you would expect from Christopher Nolan and Zack Snyder. But what I loved and found to be the magic and charm is the fact that the character of Superman / Clark Kent is the light that shines in all the darkness. Here we are seeing a young Superman coming to grips with his true heritage as he tries to live by the morals instilled in him by his earthly father. At many times he takes on a 'Jesus like' role as he deals with the fact that he may have to be the sacrifice for humanity.
The cast is an incredible collection who pay their parts perfectly! Henry Cavill as Superman / Clark Kent is the obvious standout. His Superman is strong and commanding, but his demeanor is humble and soft. Kevin Costner as Pa Kent takes control of the screen everytime he is on it esecially when he imparted 'tear wielding' advice. Russell Crow as Jor El brings to the role more than Marlon Brando did way back when. His Jor El is at times, almost an action hero. His adversary General Zod (played by Michael Shannon) is intense and fanatical about his beliefs. His methods are a bit much. And Amy Adams? Has she ever had a bad role?
The story, despite having so much crammed in it, flows at a nice pace and moves seamlessly from Krypton to current times to the Smallville flashbacks.
There are two things I did struggle with a bit since there has to be something. The first is the Battlestar Galactica film angles. At times, like the too close fight scenes get a bit tough to watch, but I do understand this is the way of modern film making. The second was the language, especially the young kids of Smallville. It seemed to be unnecessary and only made the parents in the audience squirm. The kids in the audience l
'Superman - Man Of Steel' is an amazing movie that shows that Superman and what he stands for is not an outdated concept. If you remember this is a Superman for a modern time, you will be able to enjoy it more.
Matman Rating - 5 out of 5 destroyed city blocks