Monthly Archives: June 2013
Reintroducing a Classic
Through all of the variations of Superman, whether in cinema, television or comic books, Christopher Reeve established himself as the standard bearer 35 years ago. The richness Reeve brought to life in Clark Kent/Superman, and his superb supporting cast, has defined this movie from the ’70s as a classic well into the digitally-driven 21st century. We the audience did not simply watch in awe as a powerful man flew through the air and battled bad guys, but instead got caught up in a heroic story and a love story involving another world and people and a particularly feisty Daily Planet reporter. Terrific elements of realness and fantasy intertwined, which potently lifted Superman off the 2D screen into our hearts and imaginations.
Will 2013s, “Man of Steel” have the same impact as 1978s, “Superman”?
Richard Donner cared about Clark Kent/Superman, Lois Lane, Jimmy Olsen, Mr. White, General Zod, Lex Luthor and so forth. His dedication to showing us a story about Superman instead of telling us was just one of the many “it” factors that has cemented, “Superman” as the best movie thus far about the man with the “S” on his chest.
We cared because he cared.
The story for “Man of Steel” was written and concocted by David Goyer and Christopher Nolan (both of “The Dark Knight” trilogy). Below is an interview with Mr. Goyer.
The paramount question: Did Goyer and Nolan write a screenplay and create a story that Superman fans from multiple generations will care about in 2013?
And Action!
Superman is the greatest superhero in history.
This entry will focus on the latter portion of this statement because as the 2013 cinematic version of the, “man of steel” is only days away from re-entering Earth’s atmosphere and psyche, understanding where this inspirational icon has come from is critical to appreciating where he is today.
About 63 years ago, George Reeves entertained television audiences with his clean-cut image of Superman. Then, the world in 1978 saw Christopher Reeve prove to be definitively everything Clark Kent/Superman to movie audiences of all ages. A couple more actors since have added their personalities to this character and this Friday British actor Henry Cavill will be debuting his take to the public.
Below is a collection of clips from a Superman documentary, tracking the television and movie actors up to Christopher Reeve look-alike Brandon Routh in 2006s, “Superman Returns.” It’s remarkable to see how one character from a comic book published 75 years ago has changed and sustained decade after decade after decade to bring rejuvenated hope to the people of Earth.
With, “Man of Steel” about to premiere to the worldwide audiences, watch the short video and reminisce on all things Superman. All the while, ask yourself if you think this superhero is trending in the right direction.
And also watch a trailer for, “Man of Steel” again and compare and contrast what George Reeves and his television show did in the 1950s to what Warner Bros. is doing today in 2013.
Super indeed!
1978, Meet 2013
“Man of Steel” is released this Friday, June 14th. The next few days will revolve around Superman/Kal-El/Clark Kent. Superman is the greatest superhero in history and the late Christopher Reeve was responsible for inspiring entire generations through his brilliant portrayal of the, “Last Son of Krypton.” Richard Donner’s timeless classic, 1978s “Superman,” with his sensational cast, gave the world hope in a figure and man that men, women and children continue to admire thirty-five years later.
A video was made synching footage and dialogue from the, “Superman” movies with Christopher Reeve to the music and footage of the third trailer released for, “Man of Steel.”
The video below is a fun way to re-brand the, “Superman” classics for a new generation of fans accustomed to superhero movies being, “epic,” “emotionally raw” and “grand” in scale regarding scope and special effects.
Ladies and gentleman, enjoy this fan-made trailer!
Happy Monday!
Last Friday evening, I strolled through the annual Columbus Arts Festival, which featured artists of all variations from all over the country (plus a couple international artists). Each artist’s booth was set-up like its own pop-up gallery, giving people a few seconds to glance in and either dedicate their time or simply walk by onto the neighboring collections.
I’m happy to say I struck gold with a painter from Chicago! She imaginatively brought bottles of red and white wine and its accompanying foods to life.
The Columbus Arts Festival is a great tradition in Columbus, just like the occasional visit to a museum. The opportunity to calmly observe, reflect, ponder and even show off some knowledge is a wonderful exercise of the mind.
Common protocol with most art is the notion that there is no one “right” answer. Although, with some art, as Hemingway might put it today, “if you have a good insight it’s because it is an honest insight.”
In Gil’s case, he knew the honest truth and therefore was absolutely right in his interpretation in the rarely seen, “art burn.”
Have a Great Week & Visit a Museum!
Jimmy's Daily Planet 