Man of Steel

The legendary DC comic superhero is back on the big screen in a nontraditional and more contemporary take of a relatable, yet darker, humorless character. CGI augmented epic battle scenes and massive destruction prevail.

Director Zack Snyder reveals Superman’s origin through well interspersed flashbacks. Facing Planet Krypton’s imminent destruction, parents Jor-El (Russell Crowe) and mother Lara Lor-Van (Ayelet Zurer) send their newborn son Kal-El to Earth where he is raised in a Kansas farm as Clark Kent (Henry Cavill) by loving parents, Jonathan and Martha Kent (Kevin Costner and Diane Lane). A sense of isolation develops as Clark becomes conflicted about the special powers he possesses.

Stellar cast marks this feature. British actor Cavill and Amy Adams are terrific, both displaying screen chemistry. Costner and Lane deliver heartfelt performances as adoptive parents. Russell Crowe stands out as Jor-El, Kal-El's father. However, Michael Shannon steals the show as arch villain Kryptonian General Zod.

Engaging and upbeat, Man of Steel is sure to entertain superhero fans.