Featured Audience Ratings

• John M

  
  I just recently re-watched this movie in all its remastered blu ray goodness and I have to say I smiled a lot and just enjoyed it for so much of what it was. Cheesy goodness!! Christopher Reeve as Superman will always be that character. No other reboot will ever fill his shoes. EVER.

• KJ P

  
  Superman is one of the greatest superhero films I have ever seen. Filled with superb dialogue and a heart wrenching story that triumphs over any hero film out there, Superman delivers on everything possible in cinema, during it's time. The build-up of Clark Kent in act 1 of the… More
  Superman is one of the greatest superhero films I have ever seen. Filled with superb dialogue and a heart wrenching story that triumphs over any hero film out there, Superman delivers on everything possible in cinema, during it's time. The build-up of Clark Kent in act 1 of the film is incredible, telling the backstory of his life on the farm, which is something that is missing from many superhero films nowadays. The villains are not overly charismatic which I loved, because it focusses on him having powers and having people, rather than having to deal with a bad guy 24/7, which is what modern day superhero films always do. The screenplay is terrific for what it is, the acting is very good, and the direction and camerawork is great! I love everything about this film, and although the effects are now somewhat dated, I find it easy to ignore, because the story is so powerful! "Superman (1978)" is a masterpiece of a superhero film!

• Everett J

  
  I've honestly never been a big "Superman" fan. But with "Man of Steel" set to come out next week, I figured I would break open a "Superman" blu ray box set I have and rewatch all of the movies(even though I don't remember seeing any of them… More
  I've honestly never been a big "Superman" fan. But with "Man of Steel" set to come out next week, I figured I would break open a "Superman" blu ray box set I have and rewatch all of the movies(even though I don't remember seeing any of them except the last one). The version I watched of the original was the extended cut, so I'm not really sure what the differences are with the theatrical version, but it does feel really long at over 2 and a half hours. Also, this was made in 1978, so it's pretty dated, but not unwatchable dated. The effects don't hold up, but the story is great. It's an origin story, turned into Superman trying to stop Lex Luthor from destroying the entire west coast. The cast of this movie is absolutely amazing for the time it was released. Marlon Brando, Gene Hackman, Ned Beatty, Margot Kidder, and of course Christopher Reeve. Reeve really was an amazing Superman, and his performance holds up better than anything else in this movie. Also, a small piece of trivia that I didn't know. But this was written by Mario Puzo, aka the man who wrote "The Godfather" trilogy. When compared to modern day comic book movies, this obviously comes up short. But, when you consider the time it was made, and how well it's aged, it's still very good. Also, for how old the movie is, the transfer on Blu Ray is pretty darn good. Great way to get prepared for the new movie, and perfect to introduce kids to "Superman" who haven't seen any of the movies.

• Christopher H

  
  Richard Donner (The Omen, Lethal Weapons) set out to make 70's audiences believe that a man CAN fly. Armed with a big budget and a charismatic cast, Donner delivers the first superhero epic that recounts the Man of Tomorrow's origins and his encounters with his first… More
  Richard Donner (The Omen, Lethal Weapons) set out to make 70's audiences believe that a man CAN fly. Armed with a big budget and a charismatic cast, Donner delivers the first superhero epic that recounts the Man of Tomorrow's origins and his encounters with his first nemesis, Lex Luthor. The story can be bloated, a bit un-even in tone (especially when the film turns towards a campy tone during the third act) and contains one of the most idiotic instances of a des ex machine ending ever; but delightful humor and memorable Superman moments are around every corner. The large-scale special effects may be a tad dated (some of the models look a tad plasticy) but the flying sequences still look impressive even today, especially considering it was done before the days of CGI. However, the ultimate element that makes the affair worthwhile is the wonderful cast. Christopher Reeve makes the character leap off the comic pages with his balance of good-hearted nature and emotional depth. Margot Kidder plays Lois Lane and she has a fantastic chemistry with Reeve. Gene Hackman's interpretation of Luthor may not be the most literal, but he nails every comedic note to the point that this can be forgiven (enough to make you excuse the villain's underwhelming and ridiculous real estate scheme). The legacy of this movie should not be underestimated; it established to a wider audience that superhero movies could be more than silly camp-romp like the Adam West Batman TV show.

• Jeff "

  
  Revisiting this film a second time around, I loved it a lot more. Although I'm not that big on Superman, as I'm more a fan of Batman, this film was very much entertaining, and delivered good action, some good comedic elements and plenty of thrills. Christopher Reeve is… More
  Revisiting this film a second time around, I loved it a lot more. Although I'm not that big on Superman, as I'm more a fan of Batman, this film was very much entertaining, and delivered good action, some good comedic elements and plenty of thrills. Christopher Reeve is effective as Clark Kent/Superman and Gene Hackman is terrific as Lex Luthor. For its time Superman has impressive special effects that still hold up to this day. Richard Donner's directing is terrific, and he does a great job at crafting an exciting action adventure that is lots of fun. Superman is a true superhero classic now, having watched it a second time around, I really understand the merit behind this picture. This is a great film that has stood the test of time, although many superhero films tend to fail in terms of delivering good action, effective thrills and at times comedy, this one is a near flawless film that really brings out those elements and doesn't make them irritating like Batman & Robin. With Superman you have one of the greatest superhero films only topped recently by The Dark Knight. Even with that said, this is a definite classic of which every superhero films are judged. With a brilliant cast of incredible talent, a great story and exhilarating special effects, Superman is a must see for superhero fans everywhere. This film has something for everyone. If you want an evening of good fun, and haven't watched this one, definitely do; it is worth your time. Though I'm still reserved on the whole Superman thing, I really thought this was a great film. A definite classic of the genre.

• Melvin W

  
  Lex Luthor: It's kryptonite, Superman. Little souvenir from the old home town. I spared no expense to make you feel right at home.  "The movie that makes a legend come to life." Superman is, in my opinion, the best non-Nolan superhero movie ever made. I also think… More
  Lex Luthor: It's kryptonite, Superman. Little souvenir from the old home town. I spared no expense to make you feel right at home.  "The movie that makes a legend come to life." Superman is, in my opinion, the best non-Nolan superhero movie ever made. I also think that it is a genre masterpiece. It has everything that makes the genre great. It's effects are somewhat dated now, but for its time they aren't bad. There's so much talent at work here. Richard Donner is directing and he does so with a balance of seriousness, humor, camp, and style. He knows when to inject humor and camp, but never overdoes either, while he keeps a certain amount of seriousness in the characters. Superman is played by none other then Christopher Reeve, who would go on to play the flying Man of Steel for three sequels as well. Gene Hackman plays Lex Luthor with a perfect amount of confidence and flair. Ned Beatty plays Luthor's sidekick. Margret Kidder, who Donner must love, plays Superman's love interest Lois Lane. Marlon Brando even has a role as Jor-El, Superman's father.  Superman is an origin story, and might be the best origin superhero movie ever made. Well it's second behind Batman Begins. We begin are story on Krypton, Superman's home planet, where we learn that it will soon explode. Jor-El sends his son to earth in order to save him. When the boy lands on earth years later, he is taken in by the Kent's. He soon realizes he is not like everyone else. He's strong and quick. By the time he's eighteen, he finds the fortress of solitude and becomes the superhero we know. By day, he is a reporter named Clarke Kent, who is constantly bumping into things. By night, he flies the skies, keeping the people of Metropolis safe. Lex Luthor has a big plan up his sleeves though, that should keep Superman on his toes. Superman has always been a favorite of mine. I also think it's a slightly underrated film. It's classic status among superhero films is undoubted, but I believe it deserves to be classified as a great film period. It's one of the 70's defining films. This film is a big, explosive, well written, and well made masterpiece of cinema; not just superhero movies.  If you haven't seen Superman yet, I implore you to seek it out. Then go get number two, because it is nearly as good. Three and four aren't necessary viewing as the tone of the franchise is lost and they become ridiculous. I still get a certain amount of enjoyment out of three and four, but most people hate them. This one is a must see though. It's everything you want in a superhero movie. It's big, fun, thrilling entertainment. It's also the definitive Superman movie. That will likely never change either.

• danny d

  
  you had me till you flew around the earth to reverse time. overall this is a really good film, but it certainly will be beaten sooner than later as a definitive superman film. reeve was very good, and the story is engaging.

• Jim C

  
  Superman is a incredible and exciting superhero film and started one of the most famous genres in film. The story is a incredible telling of who is considered the greatest superhero ever, and although i'm more of a Batman guy, this movie tells a great story and I enjoyed… More
  Superman is a incredible and exciting superhero film and started one of the most famous genres in film. The story is a incredible telling of who is considered the greatest superhero ever, and although i'm more of a Batman guy, this movie tells a great story and I enjoyed learning his past and the movie gives us interesting characters and adds humor, I loved the story. The cast was great, Christopher Reeve was truly born to play Superman and gene Hackman played a very evil role as well. The special effects are amazing, they were some of the most groundbreaking visuals ever at the time, and I loved them. Superman is a film that lives on through many people, and it may not be the best superhero film ever, but its certainly one of the best.

• Martin S

  
  This was a good classic...Some scenes are really epic...That was cool. Gene Hackman is a cool guy. Everybody knows I'm not a fan of Superman...But this was a good show

• Tim S

  
  The original comic book movie...this is an all-time favorite. I thoroughly enjoy both versions of the film and can't imagine it being made at any other time with any other crew.

• AJ V

  
  I've never been a huge fan of Superman comics, but this is a good movie with an all star cast and it's become a classic. It does start out boring, but it gains speed, and it's very entertaining. If you like Superman, you should see this movie.

• Michael E

  
  more bad than good. The scenes in the film go way to crazy or over the top like the two nuclear missiles, tell me this IF HE CAN FLY AROUND THE WHOLE FREAKING WORLD AND REVERSE THE POLARITY OF THE EARTHS TIME THAN WHY CANT HE CATCH BOTH MISSILES, HE WOULDV'E PASSED THEM IN A… More
  more bad than good. The scenes in the film go way to crazy or over the top like the two nuclear missiles, tell me this IF HE CAN FLY AROUND THE WHOLE FREAKING WORLD AND REVERSE THE POLARITY OF THE EARTHS TIME THAN WHY CANT HE CATCH BOTH MISSILES, HE WOULDV'E PASSED THEM IN A MILLISECOND! SPEAKING OF WHICH THAT MAKES NO SENSE WHAT SO EVER, GOING BACK IN TIME TO CHANGE TIME EVEN TO A 3 YEAR OLD KID THAT MAKES NO SENSE

• Mike S

  
  Wow, it's been ages since I saw this film. I think last time wasn't even on this side of the millenium. It's still good after all these years, even if I don't love as much now as when I was younger. One thing that will never fade with time though, is the fantastic… More
  Wow, it's been ages since I saw this film. I think last time wasn't even on this side of the millenium. It's still good after all these years, even if I don't love as much now as when I was younger. One thing that will never fade with time though, is the fantastic music theme, composed by no other than the eminent John Williams. The action scenes remain brilliant as well, and are even up to par excitement-wise with today's superhero movies (albeit the special effects obviously have a lower "wow" factor). So when all is said and done, this still keeps its status as a charming and lustrous classic.

• Conner R

  
  The first great superhero movie that paved the way for all future adaptions. Richard Donner and Mario Puzo made superheros realistically fit into the world as much as they could and made comic books more than just something for kids. While it it wasn't a perfect movie at the… More
  The first great superhero movie that paved the way for all future adaptions. Richard Donner and Mario Puzo made superheros realistically fit into the world as much as they could and made comic books more than just something for kids. While it it wasn't a perfect movie at the time, the extended cut really shapes it into one. The performance of Christopher Reeves is great and captures Superman perfectly. However, it's Gene Hackman that completely steals the show and make Lex Luthor even more kooky and diabolical.

• Anthony L

  
  Superman is by far the best Superhero movie of all time. Sure the new Batman films are excellent but they're not a touch on Donner's classic. Reeve is the quintessential Superman, even though he the 3rd (or is it 4th?) person to play him. I just can't express how much I… More
  Superman is by far the best Superhero movie of all time. Sure the new Batman films are excellent but they're not a touch on Donner's classic. Reeve is the quintessential Superman, even though he the 3rd (or is it 4th?) person to play him. I just can't express how much I adore this film, it has been my favourite since childhood and I must have watched it over 100 times. I love everything about it and can find no faults with it. Brilliant!

• Jason O

  
  In my opinion, this is the best "Superman" movie out of any of them. All of them are great, but none of the others have the thrills, wonder, and excitement that this one has. Superman (Christopher Reeve) is sent to earth to keep people out of danger the best he can. However,… More
  In my opinion, this is the best "Superman" movie out of any of them. All of them are great, but none of the others have the thrills, wonder, and excitement that this one has. Superman (Christopher Reeve) is sent to earth to keep people out of danger the best he can. However, it might be harder than he might had anticipated after he meets with Lex Luthor (Gene Hackman) and learns of his plan to destroy parts of the United States by means of huge bombs. "Superman - The Movie" had some of the best special effects ever seen at the time and it also had a great plot. Not only is Superman a superhero, he also has a life. When nobody's in trouble, he turns into Clark Kent and works at a local newspaper company. He is also interested in Lois Lane (Margot Kidder). Christopher Reeve, Margot Kidder, and Gene Hackman all put on great performances to make this movie a classic. If you like movies about superheroes who always come to the rescue, I would recommend getting "Superman - The Movie." The first time you see it, it will take you by surprise as you watch it in awe at what Superman can do. Even after you see it a few times, it doesn't get old. NOTE: That was my Amazon review written in the year 2000. I lied, the best Superman movie is Superman II, but this one's great also.

• Thomas B

  
  set the benchmark for superhero movies

• Chris G

  
  You know how we have comic book adaptation films every summer. This is the granddaddy of them all (even though it would be another decade for Batman to get his film and yet another decade for the genre to truly take off). Everyone knows the story of Superman, so I won't even… More
  You know how we have comic book adaptation films every summer. This is the granddaddy of them all (even though it would be another decade for Batman to get his film and yet another decade for the genre to truly take off). Everyone knows the story of Superman, so I won't even waste the time on the plot or the storyline. If you don't know who Superman is you might as well stop right here. Directed by Richard Donner, Superman is a film that could have been an over the top romp ala the late 1960's Batman television series. But what Donner delivered is a film anchored in reality. This being from another world has dropped on the everyday lives of the people of Metropolis (or Manhattan if we want to get technical). When the name Mario Puzo is thrown into the screenwriting process you know this isn't going to be a campy affair. The cast is great. Christopher Reeve IS Superman for the entire generation that grew up with these films and the way it's going the next two generations will also look to Reeve as the big blue guy with the "S" on his chest. Can you imagine anyone else in that role? James Caan?? Brando turns in a nice 15 minutes as Kal-El, almost appearing to be in something written by Shakespeare and Margot Kidder shall forever be Lois Lane. Finally Gene Hackman gets the honor of playing one of the biggest baddies in modern mythology in Lex Luthor and he does it perfectly. Richard Donner has said that he had two goals in making this film. The first was making you believe a man could fly. The second was that the audience cared about what happened to Superman and Lois, making it a pseudo love story. He accomplished both and created a film that dozens of producers and comic book geeks have tried to emulate ever since.

• Chris W

  
  This is a classic 70's film, but it hasn't aged well. It's still a lot of fun though, and the music is great, so it's still worth seeing.

• Ken S

  
  Because Superman isn't powerful enough? He has to be able to turn back time too? Such a crap ending...it was so close to being good

Read all 20 featured audience ratings