L'Homme d'acier

I was really happy with the origin story aspect of this movie... although I would have liked to see more of Kevin Costner's character. I didn't see this until New Year's Eve 2020 and had heard a lot of comments about the movie... positive land negative. Exceeded my expectations.

Man of Steel is a breathtaking and ambitious reimagining of Superman's origin that deserves far more recognition than it received. This movie breathes new life into the classic hero with stunning visuals, a grounded storyline, and one of the most powerful scores ever composed by Hans Zimmer. This film is nothing short of a chef's kiss - an underrated masterpiece that elevates the superhero genre to a whole new level.

Zimmer's background score is the beating heart of Man of Steel. His music captures the essence of Superman - hope, struggle, and inner strength - with a haunting, emotional resonance that stays with you long after the credits roll. Tracks like "Flight" and "What Are You Going to Do When You Are Not Saving the World?" take each scene to a higher plane, perfectly conveying Clark Kent's journey from outsider to hero. Zimmer's score is monumental and tender at once, turning each action scene into a visceral experience and each emotional beat into a moment of pure cinematic magic.

The film's visuals are nothing short of stunning. Snyder creates an immersive world, filled with grand, awe-inspiring scenes that lend Superman's story a sense of mythic scale. The Krypton opening sequence alone is a visual marvel, introducing audiences to a fresh and imaginative view of Superman's home world. And when it comes to Superman's first flight, Snyder delivers a scene so exhilarating and hopeful that it feels like an invitation to believe in the impossible.

This isn't just a superhero movie - it's a deeper exploration of identity, sacrifice, and the weight of destiny. Henry Cavill's Superman is both human and heroic, facing internal struggles that make his journey feel grounded and real. The movie's action scenes are intense and powerful, but they're backed by meaningful stakes that make every punch and every victory feel earned.

Man of Steel deserves to be remembered not just as a Superman film, but as a true cinematic gem. Snyder's direction, Zimmer's score, and Cavill's heartfelt performance make it an unforgettable experience that soars above typical superhero fare. For anyone who loves powerful storytelling wrapped in stunning visuals and an unforgettable score, Man of Steel is a must-watch - a true "chef's kiss" that honors and redefines an icon.

So we are looking at essentially a remake of Superman (nothing wrong with that). So how does it compare? Favourably.

The original is perhaps a little softer, more romantic and more idyllic whereas the remake is darker, richer and a little more interesting.

2 changes that worked for me, the origin part of the story on Krypton which is much more expansive (creating more of a universe feel, literally) and the extended character of Superman Senior. Brando was the quintessential sci-fi 'head in a bottle' character using him to explain Supe's back story in the original, Crowe's character came full combat ready and I think it added well to the overall story.

Really enjoyable effort that sits well as a representative of the DC universe :)

I am old enough to have seen the original 2 Christopher Reeve Superman movies, and the idea of combining them is great. Henry Cavill is a better Superman, Amy Adams is a better Lois Lane, the script is far stronger, the baddies are more believable, I honestly can't understand the negatives; with the exception of the first 20 minutes, which just didn't work. A great attempt, far better than most DC movies, except the Nolan ones.

This movie was dishonestly mauled by critics and reviewers simply because it was directed by Snyder. Watching this again in 2020, I have to say this will go down as a classic in years to come. It's an absolute blast from start to finish and is one of the most loyal adaptations and faithful to the Superman lore found in DC comics. One of its greatest achievements was the magnificent depiction of Krypton and giving Zod the gravitas and motivation that he lacked in Superman II. You felt empathy for him. Shannon was outstanding in his portrayal of Zod; up there with Ledger's Joker.

I remember people actually complained about the level of destruction in this movie and the excessive use of special effects, but for me this is what makes a Superman movie. Take off your nostalgia tinted glasses and watch this with an open mind. This is the greatest Superman movie bar none.