The second official trailer for “Man Of Steel,” the Christopher Nolan produced and Zack Snyder directed Superman reboot has made its way onto the web and all I can say is… wow! I’m not too much a fan of Bryan Singer’s “Superman Returns.” I felt it to be a mostly dull and lifeless try hard drama that really took away a lot of the iconic elements of Superman. With all the rebooting that has been going on lately, it isn’t much of a surprise that they decided to start over on this franchise as well. “Returns” just seemed flawed and out of place, like it was trying to pick up in some place that was left behind years ago. Routh was no Reeve and trying to duplicate Reeve in his entirety was a bit of a mistake on the studio’s part. I like that they have cast Henry Cavill, who has his own unique look. I love the approach and angles they are taking, bringing things onto a more epic, deep level that looks like it has a hell of a story to tell. Early reports are saying that Nolan’s input is giving “Man of Steel” a great visual and dramatic edge to this latest endeavor into one of DC’s most admired heroes.
The trailer is impressive. It promotes the film’s depth which I sense will give so much to it, especially since David S. Goyer, who was one of the members of the development team for the story and script of Nolan’s “Dark Knight Trilogy.” I like the angle of Kent having to make serious emotional decisions in an effort to conceal the power he carries. Not too much detail is given which I really like, but you get some great shots and glimpses of various aspects that give the film a lot of promise, particularly in the casting department. From Amy Adams as Lois Lane to Costner as Pa Kent, Diane Lane as Ma Kent, and you see quick little teases of Russel Crowe as Jor-El and Michael Shannon as Zod, this is showing promise on so many levels. I really love the visual approach which showcases a wonderful blend of atmospheric tones and Americana. I never imagined myself being so excited for a film that Zack Snyder directs. “Dawn of the Dead” was a surprise, but “300″ never grabbed my interest as I found it to be a poorly written, boring and laughable romp that bore no quality. “Watchmen” was an unexpected presence, as I found its unconventional and visceral approach to the superhero genre was a welcomed enjoyment on the big screen. His two latest, the animated adventure “Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’hoole” and the explosions n’ lingerie festival of all style no substance “Sucker Punch” have not interested me at all. Poor reviews and horrid word of mouth have further kept me away from wasting my time.
So, until the film itself is out and I have experienced it, I cannot say how good this will turn out. But as of now, it looks to promise a lot and I do not foresee an auteur like Christopher Nolan attaching his name to something bad. Even his lower listed films still have a lot to be gained from them. Snyder is a very hit or miss director but perhaps under the guidance of a master like Nolan and what seems to be a well-composed script, we could see a turn for Snyder as a much more enjoyable director for hire. “Man Of Steel” will hit theaters in both standard and IMAX formats on June 14th, 2013. Check out the most excellent trailer right here…
-ADAM KEITH.
