Superman Returns ...

Anyone who knows me undoubtedly knows how anxious I've been to see Bryan Singer's Superman Returns. To say it did not disappoint is a huge understatement. Is it perfect? No. Is it what I expected? Well, yes and no. Yes, it's a lovely "renewal" of the franchise. Yes, the characters are intact and their "histories" are honored. Yes, Brandon Routh is an admirable Superman and particularly charming as the somewhat bumbling Clark Kent. Yes, Kevin Spacey owns his role and brings a deeply sinister vibe to Luthor that can't help but smack the viewer in the face. And yes -- the classic theme music is there, woven throughout Singer's celluloid tapestry in a majestic and reverential way. But no ... I truly did not expect to be so touched, moved, and wrapped up in the human foibles of the character I've loved for most of my life.

I won't get into plot specifics (there are myriad sites out there for that kind of thing, if you're interested) ... but Singer and company obviously love Superman and his world very, very much. The characters are front and center here, and I think this more than anything else helps make the film work. It's a gorgeous looking movie, too. Eye-popping effects are effectively balanced with sweet (and sometimes, bittersweet) character moments. And that score! John Ottman deserves high praise for his work here. He's taken the very best of the classic John Williams score and created something very special. The subtle hints of "Can You Read My Mind?" are especially powerful when they appear.

Brandon Routh should be very proud. He evokes the late, great Christopher Reeve, of course (in fact, there are moments when he sounds and looks so much like Reeve it's eerie), but he inhabits the role with power and an admirable grace. I was damn impressed. As Superman, he's earnest and heroic. As Clark, he's dutiful and sweet and ... human. In direct contrast to Batman, where the costumed identity is the true identity, Clark Kent is who Superman really is. He's bright and funny and talented and genuine. That's always been one of my favorite aspects of the character -- this alien from another world who is truly more human than any Earth native. Singer must agree with me, because it's readily apparent in his film.

I could go on and on ... but I'll end with this:
The flight scenes are fantastic ... truly thrilling. Watching this man zoom through the skies of Metropolis performing truly superheroic deeds made my inner fanboy burst with pride and comfort. But unquestionably, my biggest joy came while watching Superman land. There's a grace and majesty to his movement that touched me deeply. All this power ... all these amazing abilities ... and it's his gentle touchdowns that speak volumes.

I loved this film.