Superman Returns is as aptly titled as last summer’s comic book blockbuster Batman Begins–from its opening titles, familiar, rousing score and deft combination of action, romance and humor, this new chapter for the Man of Steel feels more like a sequel that never was, as opposed to a whole new interpretation.
First comes the big question: how is newcomer Brandon Routh at filling the red boots? While he’s still no match for Christopher Reeve, who juggled heroic Superman and klutzy Clark Kent through four features, Routh still does an admirable job at an unenviable task. While tough to warm up to at first, Routh exhibits a vulnerability and loneliness more than his predessesors in years past.
Kate Bosworth fares decently as Lois Lane. Now a mom and dating a handsome new boyfriend, she’s still bitter–maybe a little too bitter–at Superman for abruptly leaving years ago without saying goodbye.
The rest of the lineup shines, especially Kevin Spacey, who has fun with his role of criminal mastermind Lex Luthor and his all-new real estate swindle, Frank Langella as Daily Planet editor-in-chief Perry White, and Sam Huntington as young Jimmy Olsen, providing sharper comic relief than one might expect.
And so there is the requisite derring-do, the continuing speculation of whether Clark Kent is Superman, and a diabolically evil plot. There is also a last third where the movie dares to go in interesting directions, both in terms of emotion and action. The result is a remarkably mature piece of work, and a worthy addition to Superman’s 68-year-old legacy.
Hollywood.com will have a full review of Superman Returns on June 28, as well as premiere photos from the red carpet!
In the meantime…
Superman Returns is set for a world premiere on Wednesday, June 21 at 7:00 p.m. PST at the Mann Village Theater at 961 Broxton Avenue in Westwood, Calif.
Stars Brandon Routh, Kevin Spacey, Kate Bosworth, Frank Langella, James Marsden, Parker Posey, Sam Huntington, Eva Marie Saint, Kal Penn and many other celebs are expected on the red carpet. Be one of the first 300 people to arrive and get a front row seat in the red carpet high-rise bleachers. Celebrity arrivals begin at 5:30 p.m. PST.
Warner Bros. Pictures will also be giving away a limited number prizes to the crowd at random, including premiere tickets, Superman t-shirts, posters, and two 37” Sharp TVs.
