Man of Steel Review

If there's one film that is sure to be discussed and debated this summer, it's Zack Snyder's update on Superman, Man of Steel. The title alone is an indication of the film's fresh take on this beloved comic book character. However, is the comic book community up for a change? Will they approve of its darker, more violent tone?

The film is beautifully told, featuring a similar style to 2005's Batman Begins. It flashes back to Clark Kent's childhood memories for much of it's first half, which helps to really develop his character. One thing that sets the film above some of it's superhero movie counterparts is its ability to contain intimately emotional moments amidst the action-packed premise. It really connects you with the characters, something that many superhero flicks miss.

The cast is superb, starting with Henry Cavill as Clark Kent/Superman. His performance was exceptionally great, as he didn't try too hard to create something new. He simply played the role of Superman, and reminds us of the greatness of the character.

Russell Crowe and Kevin Costner play Jor-El and Jonathan Kent respectively, Superman's biological and adoptive fathers. They are both fantastic in their roles. They help create some of the more emotional moments in the film. And they mold Clark into the man he grows up to become. Something essential for the character's development.

Michael Shannon does a great job as the film's main antagonist, General Zod. He is suitably creepy, and pleasingly complicated. His story isn't just that he wants to rule the world. He has a higher, more noble purpose that helps create one of the most emotionally resonant scenes in the film.

Amy Adams does a solid job of portraying Lois Lane. She definitely has her own spin on the character, but at the same time doesn't stray too far from Margot Kidder's great character of the Christopher Reeve films. There are distinct similarities, and in a film that changes a lot about this tale, it's nice to find something familiar.

The action in the film is breathtaking. Its something we have never seen before in a Superman film. Whether its Superman flying across the Earth and into space for the first time, or two Kryptonians battling it out, the film's action sequences are always engaging and visually striking.

Now onto the bad. One of the film's biggest errors is its lack of levity. This isn't Batman. Superman is a lighter, more buoyant character, something the film often forgets. Another thing I didn't like was the Clark/Lois relationship. It didn't feel like true love. It simply felt like they ended up together not by choice. I hope they fix this in the inevitable sequels.

Conclusion

Man of Steel provides electric action to go along with its tender emotional resonance. The film connects you with the characters, and engages you in the story. The cast is great all-around, and the direction by Zack Snyder is sure-handed. A much-needed update on Superman that can certainly become the foundation for a DC Cinematic Universe (fingers crossed!).

Rating: 9/10