Man of Steel (2013)
Runtime: 143 minutes
Synopsis: An alien child is evacuated from his dying world and sent to Earth to live among humans. His peace is threatened, when other survivors of his home planet invade Earth.
Performances: 7/10
Screenplay: 5/10
Editing: 4/10
Cinematography: 6/10
Score/Soundtrack: 9/10
Screenplay: 5/10
Editing: 4/10
Cinematography: 6/10
Score/Soundtrack: 9/10
Visual Effects: 5/10
Entertainment Factor: 7/10
Entertainment Factor: 7/10
Verdict: I have sort of a love/hate relationship with "Man of Steel", the film that kicked off the DCEU. I'm a person who will always find a way to defend it while still acknowledging its many flaws. I very much appreciate Zack Snyder's approach to the origin of one of the most iconic superheroes of our times. It takes a deeper, more conflict-centric look at the character's journey to becoming Superman by comparing him to a divine figure living amongst mortals while trying to understand his purpose on Earth. It's a much different approach to the Marvel formula we've been accustomed to for over a decade, and I respect it for trying to be more than just a mindless superhero flick.
Unfortunately, it only does half the job by never entirely committing to that more somber tone. It's a movie that requires the audience to turn their brains both on and off to fully take in, and that's my biggest issue with it. Behind the film's interesting themes are hidden many cheesy lines, questionable character decisions, and scenes that are just impossible to take seriously. It's also way too long, with the first and final acts being twice as lengthy as they need to be. On paper, it's a mess that is only salvaged by the best Superman to ever appear onscreen, as well as Hans Zimmer's timeless score and a few interesting shots, alas at times ruined by visual effects that I fear won't hold up in a few years.
Unfortunately, it only does half the job by never entirely committing to that more somber tone. It's a movie that requires the audience to turn their brains both on and off to fully take in, and that's my biggest issue with it. Behind the film's interesting themes are hidden many cheesy lines, questionable character decisions, and scenes that are just impossible to take seriously. It's also way too long, with the first and final acts being twice as lengthy as they need to be. On paper, it's a mess that is only salvaged by the best Superman to ever appear onscreen, as well as Hans Zimmer's timeless score and a few interesting shots, alas at times ruined by visual effects that I fear won't hold up in a few years.
While I do enjoy "Man of Steel" overall and believe that it's the best entry in the DCEU so far, I'd be lying if I said that some sharpening around the narrative and editing would've been welcomed.
FINAL GRADE: 6/10
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