Man of Steel

If you’re a die-hard fan of superman (like I am), then you probably don’t mind the fact that it hasn't taken that long for Clark Kent to return to the big screen like a speeding bullet through the sky, shortly after the previous film, Superman Returns. For those of you who are less impressed by one of America’s greatest heroes, then it might take a bit more convincing to get you excited for Man of Steel, Superman’s latest outing. But hopefully this review can solve that little issue…

Directed by Zack Snyder, Man of Steel definitely tries to take the series back to its roots, focussing on how Superman actually became the Man of Steel. Because of this, a big portion of the film takes place on Superman’s home planet, the fantastical alien world of Krypton. And this is the moment where sci-fi geeks explode with excitement, as Krypton truly is an amazing world, brought to life in an astonishing fashion by director Snyder, best known for his equally outlandish work on Sucker Punch, Watchmen and 300. Alien races, their spaceships, and their world truly seem mesmerisingly beautiful, but highly threatening at the same time as Kent’s family and loved ones are caught in the midst of a very alarming political war.

"Alien races, their spaceships, and their world truly seem mesmerisingly beautiful, but highly threatening at the same time as Kent’s family and loved ones are caught in the midst of a very alarming political war."

When the story finally gets taken to familiar shores on planet earth, there is a welcome slowing of the pace, as the audience gets the opportunity to learn more about the strong bonds that Clark Kent has forged with his human family, as well as the bigger community he grew up in. This story arc is woven into the entire fabric of the movie as a type of golden thread, imbuing the film with an impactful sense of emotional resonance. Oh and there’s also a nice love story added here for those romantics amongst us. Don't however expect anything groundbreaking in terms of the storyline though, it's all very standard Hollywood fare.

But let's be serious, no one watches a superhero movie for the riveting story or character development. In-between of all those story filler scenes, are also a lot of amazing action sequences that are taken to the next level thanks to out of this world digital effects. There is one scene in particular when Superman faces off with his fellow Kryptonians (peeps hailing from his home planet) that is sure to blow your socks right off, so please make sure to wear proper footwear when you go see this one!

Whilst it’s difficult to argue that Man of Steel is the best film in the Superman franchise, it definitely is one of the most memorable ones. And even if you’re not a big superhero movie fan, I strongly recommend it as a great introduction to this fabled legend that has had an undeniable influence on modern pop culture. It's not as profound as it wants to believe it is, but still way worth the trip to the cinema (even though you can't fly). 

Don't the calm demeanour fool you. This guy has a lot to worry about. 

Highlight: A jaw-droppingly awesome fight scene between Superman and his alien friends made me feel like a little kid again. 

(Note: I would have given this one an 8 if it wasn't for the painfully corny dialogue that rears its ugly head every now and then)