Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story Movie Review

Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking documentary that explores the life of the iconic actor and activist Christopher Reeve. Directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, the film delves into the duality of Reeve’s life: his rise to fame as Superman and his transformation into an inspiring advocate for spinal cord injury research and disability rights after his tragic accident in 1995. The documentary offers an intimate portrayal of a man who, despite unimaginable hardships, became a symbol of resilience and hope for millions around the world.

The documentary takes viewers on a journey through Reeve’s early career, where he first became a household name by donning the red cape of Superman in the late ’70s and ’80s. As much as Reeve became synonymous with the iconic superhero, the film goes beyond his Hollywood persona to reveal the man behind the character. Through rare archival footage, behind-the-scenes clips, and interviews with close friends and family, the film successfully brings to light Reeve’s humility, dedication, and ambition in the early stages of his career.

However, the real turning point of the documentary—and Reeve’s life—came in 1995 when a horseback riding accident left him paralysed from the neck down. From this tragic moment, Super/Man shifts its focus to the heart of the story: Reeve’s incredible journey of perseverance and his role as an advocate for the disabled community. The accident, while devastating, became a defining moment for Reeve, not because it diminished him, but because it showcased his unbreakable spirit and the strength of those around him, especially his wife, Dana Reeve.

Dana Reeve’s presence throughout the documentary is felt strongly. She is portrayed as a quiet yet powerful force of support, standing by her husband every step of the way. Her unwavering love and compassion make her a hero in her own right, embodying the true power of resilience. Interviews with Reeve’s children—Alexandra, Matthew, and Will—further enrich the narrative, providing personal insights into their father’s strength and their own experiences of living through such a life-altering event. Their candid reflections on the day of the accident and the subsequent changes in their lives offer viewers a raw and emotional understanding of how tragedy affected the family, yet brought them closer.

One of the most poignant elements of the film is its use of Reeve’s own voice, narrating from his audiobook Still Me. This personal touch allows viewers to connect with Reeve on a deeper level, as his words and emotions are expressed in his own voice, making his story all the more powerful. Additionally, the directors cleverly weave in symbolism from Reeve’s portrayal of Superman by using CGI and animated sequences that depict Reeve as a superhero battling his own vulnerabilities. The use of Kryptonite as a metaphor for his paralysis is both creative and effective, adding layers of meaning to his story.

The documentary also features touching interviews with Reeve’s friends, including Hollywood stars like Glenn Close, Susan Sarandon, and Jeff Daniels. These interviews provide a multifaceted view of Reeve, revealing his close friendships and the admiration his peers had for him. The stories about his time at Juilliard and his friendship with Robin Williams offer a glimpse into the personal side of Reeve, showcasing his humor, humility, and determination.

While the documentary excels in its emotional depth, some viewers may find that it lingers too long on certain moments, affecting the overall pacing. There are also areas where a deeper exploration of Reeve’s pre-accident career and his other significant achievements would have added more substance to the film. Despite these minor critiques, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story remains an engaging and heartfelt tribute to a man whose courage and advocacy work left an indelible mark on the world.

Ultimately, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story is much more than just a look back at Reeve’s time as Superman. It is a celebration of his life, his indomitable will, and the love that surrounded him through his most difficult times. The film reinforces the idea that true heroism is not defined by superhuman abilities, but by the strength to persevere in the face of adversity. It is a touching reminder that Christopher Reeve’s legacy continues to inspire not only through his work in entertainment but through his advocacy for spinal cord injury research and his enduring message of hope and resilience.

We rate this documentary 4 out of 5 stars for its heartfelt storytelling and its powerful portrayal of a real-life hero.

Also Read: Season 4 of ‘Superman & Lois’ promises to deliver an ‘epic’ and ’emotional’ end