‘Man of Steel’ Brings Us a Superman for the 21st Century

One of the most anticipated movies of the summer hit theaters over the weekend, and fans of the hero will not be disappointed in this reboot. 

Superman - the first superhero. It is a character that will never be out of style, though sometimes needs to be reintroduced to us. This world is far different then 1938 when he was first introduced to an America that needed a hero in a time of great war. This new hero brought to us by Zack Snyder is a new kind of Superman for a world that is a little bit darker, and a little bit harsher.

Everyone knows the back story of Superman. In Snyder's 'Man of Steel' we get a deeper look at the world of Krypton and it's destruction. Jor-El, played by Russel Crowe gives new life to a character who in the past had seemed cold and distant. Instead we see a loving father and husband.

Superman's other parents are played by Kevin Costner and Diane Lane. Their portrayal of Jonathan and Martha Kent is pretty good. Snyder didn't really go into the Smallville side of the story, since the world already saw most of that for years on the CW or WB, whatever it was at the time.

Back to Superman. Henry Cavill plays a good hero. His demeanor is that of a man trying to figure out his place in the universe. How quickly we forget that Superman, like some of us, is trying to figure out the mystery of life - though his is a bit more complicated, alien and all. Amy Adams brings a good Lois Lane to the table. More edgy and up-to-date then the original reporter we are used to.

Michael Shannon plays the evil General Zod, a Kryptonian military man hellbent on preserving the lives of his people. His mission to protect his planet clouds his judgement, and lands him in the Phantom Zone, until he finds his way to earth, and Superman - the last Kryptonian standing in his way of restoring his race.

Over all, I'll say that 'Man of Steel' is a great reboot to a franchise most of us thought was lost for good. The characters have been resurrected for this world. It's a darker film, with some very adult themes, so maybe leave the kids at home for this one. Much like the Batman reboot, this film has some serious messages, and doesn't skimp on the action.

The world needed a Superman who wasn't wearing red underwear, and Zack Snyder gave him to us.