Release date: December 15, 1978 (United States)
Runtime: Theatrical Cut: 143 minutes; Extended TV Cut: ~188 minutes
Rating: MPAA – PG
Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures
Director: Richard Donner
Writers: Mario Puzo (story), David Newman, Leslie Newman, Robert Benton; based on characters by Jerry Siegel & Joe Shuster
Producers: Pierre Spengler, Ilya Salkind
Executive Producers: Alexander Salkind
Lead Roles:
- Christopher Reeve (Clark Kent / Superman)
- Margot Kidder (Lois Lane)
- Gene Hackman (Lex Luthor)
Supporting Cast (Key):
- Marlon Brando (Jor-El)
- Glenn Ford (Jonathan Kent)
- Phyllis Thaxter (Martha Kent)
- Ned Beatty (Otis)
- Jackie Cooper (Perry White)
Review Summary
Superman: the Movie is a cinematic benchmark against which all superhero films should be measured in terms of direction, casting, and film scoring for generations to come.
Christopher Reeve delivers an excellent performance in the dual role of Clark Kent and Superman, indelibly defining our perception of the iconic hero.
Margot Kidder is the embodiment of Lois Lane, and no one but Gene Hackman could have captured the essence of Lex Luthor as masterfully as he did.
Perry White, personified by Jackie Cooper, and Superman’s pal Jimmy Olsen, portrayed by Marc McClure, round out the traditional lineup perfectly.
Without Marlon Brando, the film would not have achieved the star power it commands, and his performance provides the audience with a well-placed cameo.
The theme composed by John Williams is both heavenly and heroic, serving as a manifestation of Superman himself.
A masterpiece of cinema that should be required viewing for any serious student of film studies.
Formal Critique
Spoiler
In review….
IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/superman_the_movie
Rotten Tomatoes: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/superman_the_movie
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