Man of Steel Review

Man of Steel

3 stars out of 4

By Brett Takeshita

The summer tent-pole that you may -- or may not -- have been waiting for is Man of Steel. Some of you may be wondering if we really needed another Superman movie after the unsuccessful relaunch a couple years back. Well, judging off this new film, I'd say yes.

You probably already know the story. Clark Kent aka Kal-El (Henry Cavill) is not from this planet. He's an alien from Krypton. His parents -- Jor-El (Russell Crowe) and Faora-Ul (Antje Traue) -- shipped him off to earth and sacrificed their lives in order to protect their son from the evil General Zod (Michael Shannon). Jonathan (Kevin Costner) and Martha (Diane Lane) found baby Clark in their Kansas field and decided to raise him. As a young boy, Clark knew that something was wrong with himself. Everything, from his X-ray vision to his ultra-sensitive hearing, frightened him. As he grew older, he gradually understood that he was gifted with amazing powers and abilities. As an adult, Clark still doesn't understand everything. He seeks to learn more about himself and his background. There's also that one reporter girl, Lois Lane (Amy Adams), who seeks to uncover the mystery behind this great individual. However, something is threatening all of earth. General Zod has come to this planet in search of something very important, and if he does not get what he wants, all of earth will be destroyed. Will Clark rise up to the occasion and save all of humanity? Will he become "Superman," the symbol of hope and strength that the world needs?

Based off of this premise, you may be thinking to yourself that Man of Steel is covering familiar territory -- a been-there-done-that sorta thing. However, that'd be incorrect. What really makes Man of Steel a strong film and what differentiates it from other comic book superhero films is its humanity. Man of Steel is a surprisingly emotional film, playing up Clark Kent's vulnerability. The beginning of this film -- the examination of Clark's strange and occasionally terrifying childhood -- is its strongest section. Kudos to writer David Goyer for really fleshing out Clark's character and making him a superhero with which we empathize. (It's worth noting that Christopher Nolan of The Dark Knight trilogy has a story credit here, and David Goyer also contributed to that trilogy. Their intelligent marks are all over this film).

What also differentiates Man of Steel is its unconventional structure and direction. The film is told in a non-linear fashion. Director Zack Snyder cuts back-and-forth between the past and the present. There's a beautiful artfulness to this approach that took me by surprise. Snyder -- who is known for his loud and epic blockbusters -- shows a quiet restraint at the beginning of the film. Tonally, there's a sense of melancholy and wonder, as we slowly uncover the pieces of Clark Kent and his life. This sensitivity is engaging and truly un-Snyder-like. 

Then, of course, Snyder gets to his usual flourishes in the final act of the film -- which is about 45 minutes of non-stop action and explosions. I've heard multiple complaints about the end being too long and repetitous. However, I was pretty engrossed and entertained throughout. The visual effects are very impressive, with the intricate details of the destruction of the city being entirely captivating. Snyder keeps things moving at a lightning-fast pace, and the action is always exciting. I really had no problems with the final set-pieces because they are truly well done. 

However, for a long time, Snyder shows a different side of himself. It seems as if he was attempting to push himself out of his comfort zone, and for that, I commend him. Actually, I think the quieter, softer side of Snyder might be the better one -- which isn't meant to diss his usual self. Some are complaining about Snyder's directorial decisions, but I really think he did a great job with this film. His thoughtfulness and intelligence shine through.

While there has been mixed reception to Snyder's direction, no one can deny the excellence of his cast. Henry Cavill is a phenomenal Superman, and I couldn't have pictured a more perfect lead actor. Of course, at first glance, he looks the part -- he's tall, buff, and oh so handsome. However, the sheer depth that he brings to the role is outstanding. Cavill really pulls off Clark's emotional and vulnerable sides. He never brings cockiness to the character and doesn't play Superman as if he's on a pedestal, so as to make Clark seem better than us. Cavill erupts with ferocity when necessary but also dials down the intensity for a good part of the film. He's absolutely mesmerizing and entirely charismatic in each frame. He brings humanity and pathos to an old character. This is a star-making turn.

Kevin Costner and Diane Lane are sensational with their heartbreaking delivery and emotional investment. Amy Adams is the perfect Lois Lane. She brings an edginess and sassiness to the role that is refreshing. And what's really great is that she actually seems like a legitimate reporter on a mission, instead of simply being a damsel in distress. Last but not least, the incredible Michael Shannon. Do you even dare doubt his talent? He really fleshes out Zod. Of course, there's the frightening intensity and utter creepiness that you expect from Shannon, but there's also something entirely intriguing about his execution as this villain. He makes Zod evil but interesting. You hate him but also understand where he comes from. What a smart performance this is.

There's one other performance and character that demands special attention: Russell Crowe as Jor-El. I will say that his performance is decent. Not great but not bad. However, his character is what drags the entire film down. I have to admit that I was rather bored with the bloated opening on Krypton. I didn't care about Jor-El. Then, he keeps reappearing throughout the film and says the most obvious things. The dialogue is supposed to be profound and inspiring for the audience, but it just comes across as too obvious and too safe. Crowe could have really shined if he was given a more interesting and more intelligent character. However, even with a decent amount of screen time, his character is what is ultimately the biggest flaw of the film.

So, Superman-diehards and doubters of Man of Steel, I really hope that you will give this film a chance. Despite mixed reviews, I truly think that it's refreshing to have such an unconventional superhero film to blast off the summer. It has the action and the thrills that you want, but it also brings humanity, emotion, and occasional darkness that you might not expect. Is this a perfect film? No. But is it a damn good one? Yes. Three stars out of four.