Super/Man – The Christopher Reeve story – REVIEW

As a movie critic with a penchant for biographical films, I must say that “Super/Man – The Christopher Reeve Story” is a poignant and powerful narrative that transcends the typical superhero genre. Having grown up watching Superman on the silver screen, it was heart-wrenching to witness the life of the man behind the cape unfold in such a raw and honest manner.

Before Marvel became famous, it was Christopher Reeve who demonstrated that portraying a superhero like Superman could turn an actor into a star. Known as an all-American hero capable of defeating any adversary, he embodied those qualities. However, on May 27, 1995, his life took a drastic turn when a horse riding accident left him paralyzed and near death. The irony that the man who played Superman was now virtually immobile and reliant on assistance to breathe was too much for the tabloids. But “Super/Man – The Christopher Reeve Story” doesn’t dwell on this tragedy; instead, it shows how he refused to succumb to his situation and fought back against a fate that could have easily robbed him of his humanity.

Directed jointly by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, they don’t hesitate to explore the less appealing aspects of his character. An individual who, as a youngster, sought approval from an uninterested father, ironically became a largely absent father himself upon achieving stardom. A reticent man, yet one with a penchant for women, he struggled to commit to his long-term girlfriend Gae Exton despite having children with her and his personal struggle to demonstrate his acting prowess beyond playing Superman. This was evident even in the unsuccessful Deathtrap opposite Michael Caine, though it was this role that ultimately proved his versatility as an actor.

The documentary’s power lies in the poignant recollections of his three children, Matthew and Alexandra (Gae Exton’s offspring) and Will (Dana’s son), who was merely three when the accident occurred. Unaware that his father was critically ill, Will had a birthday party. The film captures their heartfelt reminiscences about their late father, with tears streaming down as they approach the moment of his passing in October 2004. Gae Exton, Reeve’s former partner, also participates and is visibly moved, demonstrating that he was always cherished. These emotional scenes are difficult to endure, evoking a similar response from many viewers, leaving several audience members weeping alongside the contributors on screen.

Christopher Reeve’s resolve to not only survive but to walk again, showcasing his bravery, is awe-inspiring. This spirit was evident at the Oscars when he first appeared, leaving those in attendance deeply touched. However, there’s an unintentional reminder of his situation as the wheelchair-bound actor on stage looks out at a crowd standing and clapping for him might be seen as adding salt to the wound.

Titled “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story,” this captivating documentary offers a comprehensive depiction of a man of diverse facets – a passion for sports cruelly curtailed by an accident in his beloved sport, a devoted family man with a complex family background, a gifted actor struggling to transcend his iconic role, and an advocate who vigorously challenged the apathy of those unscathed by spinal injuries. This compelling, heartwarming, and frequently emotional documentary underscores the remarkable impact one individual can have.

We spoke with directors Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui regarding the movie, discussing its alignment with the contemporary DC Comics universe of superhero films.

Here’s the ‘Super/Man The Christopher Reeve story’ trailer…….

2024-11-01 03:23

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