A mature and powerful interpretation of the Superman story.

Rating: 10/10 (18 June 2013)

This movie is excellent. Reason: it tells a story. Also, it is not a rip off of the previous movies of the Superman genre. Instead, it offers a unique interpretation of the Superman story. It frames the story as a morality tale with the protagonist caught in a moral conflict, one which defies an easy solution. Also, the story's main antagonist, General Zod, has a plausible reason for doing what he does. That is, his actions are not motivated by any sadistic urges but rather are part of a mission, one that Superman cannot readily dismiss since it involves him too. One can almost sympathize with Zod's plight. Also, the story plays up the fact that Superman is an alien, and one who could also pose a threat to the human race ... if he wants. Unlike previous Superman movies, this movie deals with Superman in a forthright manner and not merely as a comic book character with special powers. That Superman must disguise himself as a human is evidence of his own uncertain and tenuous relationship with the rest of the world. This uncertainty permeates throughout the movie as Superman is shown concealing his true identity in order to avoid alarming people. This ambivalence raises the story of Superman to a more mature and dramatically powerful level. Henry Cavill is excellent as Superman and the rest of the cast is equally excellent too. This movie is a must-see for all movie buffs and for everyone else too.