Superman Returns (2006) - Directed by Bryan Singer
Rated PG-13 for some intense action violence.

With Spiderman, X-Men, The Hulk, Fantastic Four, Daredevil, and The Punisher all getting movie adaptations, the Marvel Comics universe has more or less been tapped. Save for last summer's phenomenal Batman Begins, heroes in the DC Comic universe haven't seen nearly as much big-screen time in comparison. Missing from this recent onslaught of superhero flicks is arguably the biggest of them all: Superman.

But fear not fellow mortals, for our savior--The Man of Steel--has returned.

In Superman Returns, the titular hero (played by newcomer Brandon Routh) comes back to Earth after leaving to visit the remains of his destroyed homeworld. But in the 5 years since his departure, Superman finds that quite a bit has changed--that is except for Lex Luthor (Kevin Spacey) and his criminal ambition.

I was unsure what to expect from this movie, but all doubts as to whether or not Bryan Singer could pull off Superman were blown away after the opening title sequence featuring a massive supernova set to the legendary John Williams score. Fan-freaking-tastic.

Although perhaps not quite on par with Batman Begins, Superman Returns certainly should be included in the 'Superhero Movies That Don't Stink' list. Every bit as grand and magical as the Christopher Reeve movies, Brandon Routh does a fine job of giving props to Reeve's portrayal while adding his own youthful vigor to Supes. Kevin Spacey (whose performance I was most looking forward to), taking the role of Luthor from Gene Hackman, never seemed as good as it should have, however. And Kate Bosworth as Lois Lane didn't do much for me.

But with great special effects (better than the trailers may lead you to believe), a touching script, and excellent direction in the hands of Bryan Singer, Superman Returns will not disappoint.

Pros:
+ Bryan Singer's direction of a great script
+ Brandon Routh proves himself capable of wearing the blue tights
+ Great effects

Cons:
- Kate Bosworth was a poor choice for Lois Lane
- May be a bit long for the young'uns

Who Should See It: Comic and action fans alike. It will reaffirm your faith in superhero movies if you were turned off by X3.

Rating: 4.5/5