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"Man of Steel" Movie Review
Zack Snyder, the mind behind the brilliant adaptation of Watchmen, takes on Superman in the visually spectacular Man of Steel. The film chronicles Superman's early life, his role as the Superman, and his colossal battle against the evil Zod.
The story begins on Krypton, showing in detail for the first time the events which led to Jor-El sending his son Kal-El to Earth. General Zod betrayed Jor-El, setting off a chain of events that would eventually cause Krypton's destruction. Jor-El banished Zod and his followers to the Phantom Zone, a prison in the deepest reaches of space where there is nothing but torture and pain. Kal was adopted by earth couple Jonathan and Martha Kent. The Kents named him Clark and raised him as their own. They soon realized that he was more than just a boy. Clark had incredible strength and the ability to heal, not to mention heat vision and unpierceable skin. Clark had abilities that were beyond devastatingly powerful, and the Kents had to teach him when and how to use them. There were times when Clark had to use his abilities to save others, even though the risk of others seeing was great. Eventually, Clark grew into an adult, taking on the alter ego Superman. But an unexpected threat came to Earth, engaging Superman in a colossal fight to the death.
The acting was remarkable, even for the kids. The directing was masterful and the story superbly well-written. Perhaps the only issue I had with the film is that some parts seemed to drag out longer than they needed to. I'm sure there's a way the film could have been shortened, even if it was just by 10-15 minutes.
In conclusion, the film was satisfying and refreshing. I was skeptical about the film, feeling that it released a bit too soon after Smallville wrapped up. Man of Steel was its own film and I appreciated that. It didn't try to outshine the Christopher Reeve films nor Smallville. Instead, it was original and closer to the comics. It exceeded my expectations, making me look forward to future installments.
© 2016 Nathan Jasper