Man Of Steel : A Review by Emjeed

Alright I'm going to cut to the chase with this one. No need to use any gimmick or try to complicate the simple answer to the question above. Man Of Steel soars. It's that simple.

This is the definitive reboot for Superman and it is done expertly. This is my opinion of course and is naturally subjective. But then I will also take the reactions of my fellow audiences that watched it with me.The general complain by critics is the lack of humor in this movie. I went in expecting Batman with powers after reading the hyperbolic claims of these critics on this matter and what I saw was a refreshingly warm and heartfelt movie.

I saw it twice already tonight.. and both times there was a lot of laughs in the theater. There's some really funny moments in this film that gives it enough levity from all the dark stuff("I grew up in Kansas, That's about as American as it gets!" haha.. this line received a roar of laughter and that scene with the girl saying she thought he was hot is actually very funny in the context of the movie. The way it's cut in the tv spot doesn't showcase it's comedic timing). Zod is menacing especially in the final fight. He has a really powerful and emotional turn in the climax that had a few ladies reaching for the handkerchief. The Fights are spectacular in way we haven't seen before.

Now that that's out of the way, I'll start with the acting. The actors in this piece were never in doubt to begin with, the exception of course being Henry Cavill as most people had not seen him in anything other than "Immortals". And I must say he really was a standout performance for me. I was sold in the scene where he finds out about his heritage. His reaction to his alien name was a powerful mixture of denial,awe,acceptance and even a touch of suspicion. He embodies the character of Superman right down to his knack for saying cringe worthy lines that can only be taken seriously when spoken by Superman. This is a Superman who is sure of himself and his powers. And this Superman Never gives up.

Next Up is Amy Adams as Lois Lane who hits the character out of the park! She's got a lot of spunk and is determined to satisfy her curiosity ones she's worked up an appetite for a specific story. She's also no push over and her character is not just another damsel in distress who needs saving all the time. Shoot.. she was measuring dicks with a Colonel and a scientist (You will get this when you watch the movie).

Michael Shannon as Zod was inspired casting. He brings a lot of depth to the role in that he's a villain that you don't necessarily like, but you do respect his resolve and determination to the point that you start feeling for him towards the end. Which is exactly what the makers of this movie wanted. They wanted us to be in the shoes of Superman and they execute this perfectly. We see Zod as Kal El sees him. A man who was made to live a certain way with no other choice. An unfortunate victim circumstances. But this is not a victim you sympathize with. You only understand his plight but are ultimately rooting for the good guy in this. He is no tragic villain. You want him defeated. Which is refreshing since Hollywood is all about anti-heroes instead villains these days.

Russel Crowe is the heart of this movie Along with Kevin Costner and Diane Lane. These actor deliver the goods with their characters as does the rest of the cast . Although I found the character of Jenny Jurwich unnecessary,she served he purpose well enough.

The action is a lot but it's far from repetitive as people have said. It builds up and culminates in what I'm sure will be one of the most debated finales on this site for weeks to come.

Now the only gripe i have with this is that it leaves GAPING plotholes about Superman's identity. After watching the movie it hard to imagine anyone not know who he is later. You will understand what i mean by this when you watch it.
Overall, I say this movie served its purpose. I saw it in both 3D and 2D and I gotta say i loved the 3D better.. but it's still the same movie in 2D as well and the visual effects are neither enhanced nor diminished by either medium. They both work just fine. It's a reintroduction of an iconic character to a modern audience and I believe it gets better the more you watch it. I was only able to spot two easter eggs and was grasping straws at another. There's no after credits scene so don't bother.
4.8/5
Me and the Gf in line