Superman & Superman II

a review

At last what we have all been waiting for, one of the best superhero films every made, in my humble opinion. The film (s) by which all other superhero films must be judged. The film hits all the right buttons, unknown at the time Christopher Reeves is Superman, and also an excellent Clark Kent, mild mannered hicksville hack. Lex Luthor is also impressive as the irrepressible Lex Luthor, and Margot Kidder made a formittable Lois Lane, only bettered in my opinion by Teri Hatcher.

The first film concerns itself with the youth and appearance of Superman, and an insane plot by Lex Luthor to destroy the west coast and gain himself some valuable real estate. You all know the plot, Clark Kent, from Smallville, Kankas, is a reporter on the world famous Daily Planet by day, where he tries to live a normal life and woo the love of his life, hard nosed Lois Lane. By night, however (or when no one else is looking) he is Superman, super strong, super fast and generally a real good egg.

The sequel features the always value for money Terence Stamp as the evil General Zod, imprisoned in a big pane of glass (?) by Superman's dad ($3.7million fee plus percentage of gross, for 12 days work) Marlon Brando, in the original and out for revenege.

This double DVD contains both the original film and it's sequel, and while the first one takes about 40 minutes to get in the rhythm, while the sequel, which was filmed back top back with the original (how's that for confidence) kicks straight into the action.

Both films still look good today, although the effects aren't as impressive as they once were (obviously) and the extras are wonderful, on the first film as least. With the original you get a commentary from Richard Donner (director) and Tom Mankiewicz (creative consultant), three documentaries, interviews and new footage integrated into the movie specially for the DVD.

With the sequel you get a trailor!

That apart, the DVD is well worth the money and a must for all fans.