Superman Returns (2006) is a superhero film directed by Bryan Singer, serving as a spiritual sequel to Richard Donner’s Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980), ignoring the events of Superman III (1983) and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987). The film stars Brandon Routh as Superman/Clark Kent, Kate Bosworth as Lois Lane, Kevin Spacey as Lex Luthor, and James Marsden as Richard White, Loisโs fiancรฉ.
The plot centers around Supermanโs return to Earth after a five-year absence, during which he had searched for the remains of his home planet, Krypton. Upon his return, he finds that the world has moved on without him. Lois Lane has written a Pulitzer-winning article titled “Why the World Doesnโt Need Superman,” and she is now in a relationship with Richard White, a journalist at the Daily Planet.
The film explores Supermanโs inner conflict as he grapples with his role in the modern world. His deep love for Lois, who has moved on without him, and his sense of responsibility toward Earth, are central themes. Despite the emotional weight of the story, the film also features spectacular action sequences, including Supermanโs battle with Luthor and his goons, as well as his efforts to stop Luthorโs plan to destroy the world.
Superman Returns is notable for its reverence to the original Superman films. It channels the spirit of the 1978 movie with a similar visual style, score (by John Ottman, incorporating John Williamsโ iconic Superman theme), and tone. The film also explores themes of isolation, duty, and the difficulty of being a hero in a complex world, with Superman struggling to find his place in a society that has learned to live without him.
Despite these mixed reviews, Superman Returns was a commercial success, grossing over $391 million worldwide, though it was considered a modest return on its $270 million budget. It was hoped that the film would launch a new era of Superman films, but due to its reception, a direct sequel never materialized. Instead, the character was reintroduced in Man of Steel (2013) as part of a more modern, gritty reimagining of the Superman story within the DC Extended Universe (DCEU).
Superman Returns remains a film that divided fans: some appreciate it as a heartfelt continuation of the original films, while others felt it didnโt quite meet the expectations of a modern superhero blockbuster.