A Sad Superman Returns

Although Superman Returns is a well-made movie, it came across as too sad and gloomy for me. Expecting a fun summer blockbuster, I was disappointed with its serious tone and dreary presentation.

Yes, newcomer Brandon Routh looks great in those Superman tights and Kevin Spacey manages to get a couple of laughs as Lex Luthor, but most of the time the screen oozes so much dark magma that I hungered for even a glimpse of cartoon color. Plus it put me in a deep funk to see Superman suffering because Lois Lane, played by Kate Bosworth, moved on after our hero left without saying a word to her several years ago.

All the references to Superman as a savior and Christ-like figure also add to the somber atmosphere of this film. Still, I predict Superman Returns will be a big box office success. After all, the many fans of this popular superhero have waited almost 20 years for his return to the silver screen, and they will not let him down.