The Best Movie - A Life Experience

Rating: 10/10 (14 July 2013)

I have never read action comic books. I was introduced to the superman story as a child watching black & white TV, with actor George Reeves (middle aged - average physique) pretend to be a super hero in a cheap superman suit. Since then, I have seen all the superman movies and enjoyed them, but nothing beyond those movies. Until "Man of Steel", the previous movies contained * action, * slap stick, and romantic "chick-flick" elements. And, for what they were, I was entertained. "Man of Steel" is for grownups who have allowed their minds to wander and wonder about what and why things are the way they are - about possible pieces of the terrestrial life question and possibilities beyond our normal cradle-to-grave reality which is conveniently handed to us. Interwoven in this movie's story were relevant ethical points to consider about evolution and genetic engineering of any or all life forms, whether in the universe or on earth. If an environment changes and subsequently will no longer support a particular life form, intelligent species attempt to survive by either inventing gizmos, moving somewhere else, or accepting that it's time is up. The storyline also shows that if there is no compromise, if space cannot be shared, then survival can be a fight to the death. In this movie, Superman cannot save everybody. He doesn't turn back time like in a previous movie. He has some limitations, and that makes him more human, since he must make more serious choices.
The visual realism for such a massive epic was a few notches up from what I have seen in cinema up until now. I did watch it on an Imax screen in 3D. But it would still be great in 2D. I intend to watch it once or twice again before it leaves the theaters. I feel privileged to have been able to experience such audio visual masterpiece within my lifetime. I hope there will be more sequels to follow.
My girlfriend is a fan of foreign films, romantic movies and TV dramas , and I felt like I had to pull her by the ear lobe to see "Man of Steel". I think she actually ended up liking it as much as I did. She said " This Superman was hot !"
OK, so we liked it for different reasons.
I am puzzled to see so many one star hateful reviews, and although I can see why someone would be disappointed if they were expecting the same type of romantic aspects of the previous superman movies. Correct. This "episode" was not about romance. But is that enough to HATE the movie ? What planet are they ....?. . .Never mind.
I rated this movie a 12, and took off 1 point because I suppose it could have been a teeny bit better. But the ratings only allow up to 10 stars, so I guess I'm stuck with a 10 instead of 11. Ten stars it is !
I am always perplexed by the great divide in public opinions about many things, so I guess I should not be surprised that a few people hate it. A few people will always hate something about anything. I will say that if you are elderly or have a hard time following conversations, then maybe you would do better with a more serene down to earth movie like "Still Mine", or maybe pull out some of your old VHS cassettes and watch your old favorites. "Man of Steel" is heavy on concepts and visual artistry. It does not elicit strong emotions (although there are a couple of laughs) nor is it always "accurate". But then, superman is only a fictional character with a fictional story, so if your thing is to nit pick at inconsistent details in a fictional story which is presented mainly as entertainment, then you will have a great time jotting down inconsistencies, while the rest of the audience enjoys the ride. If you have the ability to open up and enjoy a masterpiece with minor flaws, then you will love this experience.