Look, Up in the Sky! The Amazing Story of Superman (2006)

I've never been a fan of Superman, but this enlightening documentary really allows you to respect what is, in my opinion, an out dated character. This film details the highs and lows of Superman in popular culture, and avoids being just an advertisement for his latest incarnation. There are interesting tidbits, such as many of the distinctive characters/traits coming from the early radio shows. We see Superman's effects on celebrities, writers, producers, a world at war, and much more. At times it places its feet where they're not wanted. Did we really need talk on September 11th? Probably more of a nice introduction to the character, or good for those looking to expand their knowledge. But most fans will be familiar with what's going on.

Hardcore Superman fans and Superman fans period will be very pleased with this documentary. This year I became really interested in everything Superman, mainly thanks to Superman Returns and Smallville. This documentary examines Superman history literally from day 1. The 1933 "superman" madman, the 1940's cartoons, the 1950's TV series, the movies, his death at the hands of Doomsday in 1993, the runs on TV with the new adventures of Superman and Smallville, and his triumphant return to the big screen are all thoroughly talked about. All the Supermen, from George Reeves to Brandon Routh are discussed. All the highs and lows of Superman's history are examined, including his downfall in the 70's before Superman: The Movie. Brilliantly narrated by Kevin Spacey, this is truly a must see for all those interested in Superman.

I found this to be an excellent documentary of the complete story from the beginning in the 1930's to the present. It covers the early comics, early cartoons, Superman, Superboy, Supergirl (although I wish she would have gotten more time...), Kirk Alyn, George Reeves, Gerard Christopher, and the whole gang. It had some great commentary from Noel Neil and Jack Larson. It also touched on the "mysterious" death of George Reeves. It, of course, had a good bit on Christopher Reeve with some of the auditions of other actors. It even had segments on The Return of Superman and an interview with Brandon Routh. I can't imagine any collection not having this DVD to go along with the other materials that are now available. For a novice as well as someone who has "flown" with a towel as well as in their dreams, this disc will be a treasure to view over and over!

Each one of the aspects of Superman from the comics to the radio show, the serialization for the cinema and the TV shows, through all the movies was presented with good wit and humor and thoughtful reflection on what had happened to many people associated with the entire spectrum.The celebrities, writers, directors and production staff that were interviewed gave not only their experience of the mythology of Superman, but of their memories of working on or with the different aspects and how it affected them both then and now.I recommend anyone who is a Superman fan see this film.