Review of Superman Returns (2006) by Wil B — 14 Jun 2013

Superman Returns hasn't earned its reputation as a bad movie. The movie is actually fairly enjoyable, and feels epic at some points.

Bryan Singer uses the same universe as the earlier Superman movies, but loses the goofiness. In the movie Superman has been absent for a while, and the film deals with how those close to him react. Lois has moved on, finding a new man and writing articles about how the world will keep turning (the right direction) without Superman.

The dialogue is okay, but not great enough to sustain the movie between action scenes. The movie takes its time to get to each epic set piece, which would be fine if it were a tad bit more entertaining. Spacey keeps things entertaining by being a good mix of funny and creepy as Luthor, and James Marsden is actually charming as Lois' new man. Sam Huntington also stands out as a youthful Jimmy Olsen.

Other actors don't fare quite as well. Routh is lovably awkward as Clark, but doesn't feel engaging as Superman during some long, quiet scenes. When called upon to speak, however, he fits well into the role.

Singer handles the action scenes well. Visually striking, boosted by John Ottman's great score which makes use of John William's unforgettable themes. The opening alone made me feel all tingly. Superman Returns may not be the best of the franchise, but for most of its runtime it is an epic examination of an American icon. B-.