Man of Steel is a movie that redefines Superman on silver screen. Man of Steel undoubtedly was one of the most anticipated movies of the year. The movie is said to be the starting point of DC Cinematic Universe and while it may succeed in starting it but in total this movie pleases and disappoint at the same time.
It is the Superman movie that was needed to be ended up being too much Batman’ish. These days there are two options for a movie to go either the dark and grim way or the Marvel’s way. You have to choose one of them and not take the middle path. Parts in the movie especially during the second half are too long and lengthy, few scenes with Jor-El are way too confusing for the audience who want to feel familiar to Superman’s character and while the S on Superman’s chest means hope, the theme of the movie is way too dark and depressing.
As per acting everyone shines in their own way. Henry Cavil turns into if not a great then quite good Superman for present day, For Clark Kent’s role we might need to wait till the sequel comes. Michael Shannon is menacing as General Zod and he looks like he was perfect for the role. Amy Adams as Lois Lane is disappointing and rest of the cast is on their best. Russell Crowe’s Jor-El’s role is un-necessarily expanded but one who shines from all is Kevin Costner as Pa Kent. His acting is awesome to the level that it will bring tears in your eye.
Visual Effects are good but not satisfying. There are some points where it looked like more could be done with scenes but they didn’t give much focus on visual effects area. There are three brilliant action set pieces that are breathtaking and but as the movie proceeds towards the third act the film gets crowded with action sequences to the level where one cannot take them anymore.
I always had problem with Hans Zimmer’s score. WTF was WB thinking when they appointed him to do the soundtrack to this movie. Superman is the symbol of hope and even if there is good pleasing scene the soundtrack makes it look like grim and sad.
While overall I love this movie but it didn’t feel like a true Superman movie. There are plotholes in this one too but every movie has them. We all know what is his weakness, who is his love interest and a lot of scenes could have been shortened or edited. Zak Snyder's hardwork shows and I hope that he gets all the credits for this movie and not like all credit goes to Mr. Nolan himself.
Overall this movie is a good time entertainer but not something like The Dark Knight or Avengers that someone will like to watch it again and again.