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MAN OF STEEL - Full Length Reaction!

Here's the full length reaction to Man of Steel! I loved Christopher Reeve as Superman so much, so I wasn't sure how I'd feel about a different take on Superman... but I loved Henry Cavill in this! I enjoyed the movie's tone, and it was cool to see more of Superman's struggles and his discovery of how to control his powers. Enjoy!

MAN OF STEEL - Full Length Reaction!

Comments

The layers they use to measure the age of the earth, do not indicate that. They are evidence of hydrologic sorting, which is from the Flood of Noah.

Jay Perry

I feel like anyone who reacts to the Reeve movies should definitely follow up with that one.

Kyle

An nice alien arrival: "Battle: Los Angeles" (2011) Aaron Eckhart, Bridget Moynahan

JAKH

good Henry Cavill: "The Count of Monte Cristo" (2002) - 1810's/1820's costume period piece "The Man From U.N.C.L.E." (2015 remake)

JAKH

She actually doesn’t the show is its own spin off that doesn’t need you to watch the other shows to understand the story

Spidey Productions

Problems with that: 1) "SM&L" is a spin-off of the Arrowverse series "Supergirl" after the Crisis on Infinite Earths crossover episodes, so she would need to watch 25+ seasons of other shows (Arrow, Flash, Constantine, Legends of Tomorrow, Supergirl) as background. 2) The show is a big steaming pile of barf. 3) The show "Lois and Clark" (1997-1997) is much better. Older effects, but better writing, story, and plot.

JAKH

This is a fun movie, overall it’s probably a 7/10 for me. On the plus side, the special effects are terrific which definitely lends itself to really capturing what a fight involving people with Superman’s abilities would be like. Basically in terms of “realism” in regard to watching Superman in action this iteration with Henry Cavill probably the best version of the character. Additionally just the general art style for Krypton and the costumes are really solid. Where I start to ding the film is on some of the storytelling and editing aspects. First of all, it feels too long. By the two hour mark I was ready for the movie to finish but it just kept going. This definitely could have been cropped down to a tighter story. I also didn’t really like all the flashbacks, I think I would have preferred if they had stuck with a bit more of a conventional timeline structure where they show Clark growing up in the beginning and proceeding from there. It felt like the film was just using flashbacks for no particular reason other than wanting to be different. Also there were some seeming plot holes. For instance, the dad definitely didn’t have to die like he did. There were SO many ways for Clark to have avoided that! It also was never explained (unless I missed it) why Zod insisted on bringing Lois onto his ship, or why Lois was literally onboard the bomber (yeah, she told everybody the plan, but after that was done they basically had zero need for her onboard. Not to mention she just keeps showing up at whatever random spot Clark is in, such as just happening to be in the subway station where Clark and Zod crash land from orbit or wherever. And lastly I never really felt like any of the characters stood out much in terms of their personality. Mind you, I like the movie overall, and I definitely think the 57% rating it has on Rotten Tomatoes is too low. I do think the original Superman film, despite its campiness and outdated effects, is the more enjoyable film because it’s got overall better character development and dialogue and a more entertaining villain in Gene Hackman’s Luthor. But Man of Steel is still, despite not being among my favorite movies, an entertaining one that I don’t regret watching. 🙂

Doug

Definitely my favorite Superman movie 🙌

Chris Shine

Snyder Verse propped up by good casting. i'm okay with that, Henry Cavil giga Chad.

tgriexterminator

Addie, I almost forgot to mention, during Superman's battle with the World Engine, when he's struggling to break through its beam, there's a close up shot of Henry for at least 8 seconds and within that time, if you're looking closely, there is a clever Christopher Reeve tribute: Where Henry morphs into Christopher for 2 seconds but its so seamless due to both men looking very similar.

Kyle Brandon Sanger

Wait, I’m so confused, the math isn’t mathing. Zack Snyder's Justice League (2021) was released two years after Endgame (2019) and three years after Infinity War (2018), with Endgame marking Thanos' final live-action appearance. I don’t see how the MCU could have taken aspects of the Snyder Cut to inspire Thanos! The only version of the film that existed prior to Infinity War (2018) was Justice League (2017), and I can't imagine the MCU taking any inspiration from that. Thanos' creator, Jim Starlin even admitted that Justice League (2017) made him nervous about Avengers: Infinity War, given how that film handled its big villain. Unless I'm missing something!

LittleGalaxyBoy

I wonder if Addie knows, that (this isnt spoilers) the Main villain was so good in Justice League snyder cut that the MCU took inspiration from it on how to write Thanos character. So im excited for you to see it!

Thats MR. Baldamort

Your just getting into Superman as WB is getting geared up to release the new Superman movie. From 3C Films, no spoilers except how Superman is going to look. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLvt50U0bZM

MattTheHazard

I understand, I still think DCEU gets more crap than it deserves, at least the first several films. There have been FAR worse super hero movies than anything Zack Snyder has put out (looking at you post endgame MCU)

Thats MR. Baldamort

It’s a mix of emotions for me because, yeah, it’s an epic film, but there are so many moments where I find myself thinking, "Eh, don’t really like that." Thankfully, with the DCEU now over, I can look back and appreciate it more since I know it’s not leading anywhere. Kind of just vibe with it and hope something better comes along, such a World's Finest movie.

LittleGalaxyBoy

I hope you watch Superman and Lois tv show on max so good a further explores Superman's relationship with Lois!

Spidey Productions

I dont disagree but I think its a fun epic film lol

Thats MR. Baldamort

Having Batman v Superman be her first experience seeing Batman and Superman on screen together hurts my soul. They should've given us a Batman solo film first and then a World's Finest team-up between Batman and Superman. Whoever at DC/WB came up with the idea to make Batman v Superman the second film in a connected universe deserves to be thrown into the Phantom Zone.

LittleGalaxyBoy

When you care more about a Nazi-killing robot (G.I. Robot from Creature Commandos) than Superman in his own movie, you know something's wrong. I felt the same way about the cast, I never got attached to these characters, at least the Superman related cast.

LittleGalaxyBoy

The deception of General Zodd as an anti-villian is an interesting take. He respects Jor-El but is frustrated by his optimism and love for others than his own people. Zodd has a Machiavellian world view where he genuinely believes that he's in the right.

Kyle Brandon Sanger

Hi Addie! Great reaction as always. I’m “Super” stoked for your eventual reaction to Batman V. Superman. And I’m really glad you like this and you haven’t let any of the hate for the Snyder movies affect your opinion. You may not even be aware of the hate a lot of people have for anything Snyder related, but it’s out there unfortunately. Anyway, I’m really glad you’re a reactor that will keep an open mind always and give your genuine opinion.

Cameron Kerby

Gotta check out The Man From U.N.C.L.E with Henry Cavill what a fun film

Samuel Newman

My issue with this one is that i don't find anyone likable. Superman isn't unlikeable, but he has no real personality. I feel like I'm supposed to like him just because he's Superman. Is he friendly? A jokester? Introverted? Extroverted? I dunno. We get a glimpse here and there, but not enough to make me like him as a person. They could've cut 20 minutes of action time and given us more character development across the board.

Luis Fernandez

The perception that DC is darker than Marvel often comes from movie portrayals, especially after Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy and Zack Snyder's DCEU, which emphasized a gritty, serious tone. However, both Marvel and DC comics have long explored deep themes with a mix of light and dark. In the '70s, Stan Lee's portrayal of drug abuse in The Amazing Spider-Man broke the Comics Code Authority, paving the way for mature themes in both universes, such as The Death of Gwen Stacy. DC's darker tone in movies is largely influenced by Batman, but both Marvel and DC tackled similar dark themes in the '80s and '90s, with Marvel’s Ultimate Universe and DC's New 52 reboot adopting grittier tones. Before this, both DC and Marvel had a campy era, but Marvel's shift in the '60s with characters like X-Men and Spider-Man brought a more dynamic tone, while DC still carried a lighter, whimsical feel from the '50s and '60s. So, the idea that DC is inherently darker is a misconception from mainstream audiences who haven’t explored the full breadth of both universes, beyond the movies.

LittleGalaxyBoy

The general consensus is Cavil is a great Superman, but not everyone loved the tone even though DC is considered a much darker tone than Marvel and then there are those people who just hate Zack Snyder regardless of the movie.

Jasbro

No worries, its all good. We'll are fans.

Kyle Brandon Sanger

The latter he did with Tom Holkenborg (Junkie XL).

Alex Tan

That's 100% understandable. I was just surprised since many consider Superman: The Animated Series the definitive depiction of Superman outside of the comics. And Henry's Superman actually pulls alot from this version of the character, highlighted in Justice League as well.

LittleGalaxyBoy

I just wasn't into STAS, however, the Justice Lords episode and Superman's meeting with Vandal Savage in 'Justice League' was amazing.

Kyle Brandon Sanger

You loving the tone of this version of superman has me very excited for Batman Vs Superman and Justice league. Overall, the tone is suppose to be darker and more serious than the MCU. BTW Addie, Hanz Zimmer did the scoring to this movie and Batman Vs Superman!

Thats MR. Baldamort

Really surprised by that since, Superman: The Animated Series (STAS) is, for most people, the definitive Superman rendition. It offers a stronger origin story than Man of Steel, featuring three epiosde story arc covering the origins of Superman. While Man of Steel, at least for people new to Superman leaves out so much of his early lore. The show features one of the best Batman-Superman meetings, better than what we got in Batman v Superman. The series truly captures Superman's heart, exploring his relationships, heroism, and moral compass in a way that resonates with both kids and adults. The episode where Superman takes on Batman's role, alongside Robin to search for Bruce Wayne, is something I'd love to see in live action. Clancy Brown's Lex Luthor is outstanding, and for a darker take on Superman, Brave New Metropolis shows an evil Superman as a ruthless dictator in a timeline in which his Lois died. Justice League and Justice League: Unlimited delve into complex Superman themes that the movies never explore, like the Justice Lords storyline where Superman kills Lex and leads a tyrannical Justice League. I wish the Snyder Trilogy had reached the levels of the DC Animated Universe's Universe.

LittleGalaxyBoy

Addie, did you know that the ending scream that Henry Cavill did was totally improvise on his part. Also, when he was younger, Henry admitted that he faced bullying because he struggled with his weight but prepping for 'Man of Steel' made him for in love with fitness and working out. While shooting the Oil Rig scene, Henry would always get the most of one last pump before every shoot because it would get the blood pumping and make the muscles more define, its an old Hollywood trick. Believe it or not, Henry missed the call from Zack Snyder because he was too busy playing 'World of Warcraft' on his computer. He thought that he missed the call of a lifetime, luckily, Snyder called again and notified Henry that he got the part of Superman. I can't wait for Addie to react to the R rated, 3 hour cut of the 'Ultimate Edition'.

Kyle Brandon Sanger

I love this film. Best Superman film. One of the best origin films along with 'Batman Begins' and I love the Snyder Trilogy. Since I was younger I found Superman to be boring, dull, and a bit corny, thanks to the 'STAS' and Justice League, fans dubbed him Wussman for a reason in 'Justice League'. I was always a Batman fan through and through. However, Henry Cavill changed everything for me. He is Superman. He was born to play the role. Yes, I am willing to die on this hill. Hot take. Cavill made me reevaluate my biases and appreciate the character of Superman. I watched 'Man of Steel' in the theater three times and the First Flight sequence still gives me chills to this day and is one of the greatest scenes ever IMO. I can't champion 'Man of Steel' enough and give Cavill all the praises and he loves and cherishes Superman. Zack Snyder and Christopher Nolan left us something special here.

Kyle Brandon Sanger

Happy Monday, Addie! I hope that you had a great weekend. 😊 I enjoyed your YouTube live stream on Saturday. I really like this movie. This is one of few DCEU movies that I've seen. Henry Cavill does a great job as Clark Kent/Superman. And I enjoyed Amy Adams as Lois Lane. For more Henry Cavill, I highly recommend the 2002 "The Count of Monte Cristo". And for more Amy Adams, I very highly recommend the 2006 movie "Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby". Definitely looking forward to watching this reaction later this evening. Have a great day today! 😊

Randee Carreno

The Dark Knight Effect: Man of Steel very much follows the trend set by The Dark Knight, asking, “What if Superman existed in the real world?” This approach delivers a more "realistic" and darker take on the character, mirroring how Nolan handled Batman, both in tone and visual style, including the desaturated color grading. Zack Snyder leaned heavily into this, crafting a Superman film that feels more like a Nolan Batman story. While it’s far from my favorite depiction of Superman and I wouldn’t recommend it as someone’s first Superman experience, Man of Steel is worth watching as a unique Elseworlds take on the character. --------------------------------------------------- What I loved: (Yes, I actually liked aspects of Man of Steel) Starting on a positive note, Zack Snyder consistently excels in two areas: VFX and cinematography. Whether it’s 300 or Zack Snyder’s Justice League, his films always look stunning, and Man of Steel is no exception. The film also stands out by leaning into the alien invasion genre, setting it apart from previous Superman movies. The documentary-style shaky cam enhances that vibe, contributing to a grounded, chaotic energy that I genuinely enjoy. For me, this is the film's strongest element: it’s less about a love story or a deep dive into Superman’s character and more about an alien invasion with Superman at the center. That’s where I find most of my enjoyment. Krypton’s portrayal is another highlight. Snyder’s H.R. Giger-inspired take offers a fresh, ancient-meets-medieval design that feels unique compared to the vibrant sci-fi Krypton of the comics. And, of course, the fight scenes are spectacular, Superman finally feels like a force of nature on screen, which is thrilling to see. I also find it interesting that Man of Steel presents Superman as humanity’s first encounter with a metahuman in a world devoid of prior heroes. There’s no Justice Society of America dating back to the 1940s, which makes humanity’s reaction to Superman more grounded and cautious. This, of course, influences the Kents’ decision to push Clark to hide his abilities, fearing how the world would react to someone of his nature. This contrasts sharply with the comics, especially Superman: Secret Origin (2009), where Clark embraces his powers early on, becoming Superboy before eventually becoming Superman. In those stories, the Kents encourage Clark to embrace his abilities, knowing the world is already familiar with superheroes like the Justice Society, Metal Men etc. -------------------------------------------------------- What I disliked: (Oh, Boy!) While I enjoyed some elements, the film’s tone didn’t work for me. It felt too heavily inspired by The Dark Knight, delivering a grittier, moodier depiction of Superman and the DC Universe. This trend dominated superhero films at the time, with Fantastic Four (2015) and The Amazing Spider-Man (2012) suffering similarly by trying to replicate Nolan’s success. Simply put, this tone doesn’t capture the essence of Superman, Metropolis, or Krypton for me. In the comics, these worlds are colorful and vibrant—Metropolis is the City of Tomorrow, a retro-futuristic Art Deco wonderland, not the generic city we get in this film. While Snyder’s version of Krypton is visually interesting, I prefer the bright, high sci-fi aesthetic from the comics that reflects Superman’s iconic colors, something this film heavily tones down. Superman himself also feels far too mopey and emotionally closed off. Henry Cavill spends much of the film with a neutral expression, which is a far cry from the hopeful, inspiring Superman we know and love. I never connected with this version of the character. For me, much better depictions of Superman strike the right balance between joy and hope while still allowing for darker moments. What Chris Evans did for Captain America is the perfect template: earnest, heroic, and inspiring. Unfortunately, Zack Snyder stripped away these core aspects to emphasize a darker, moodier interpretation of Superman. That said, I understand that this was meant to be the beginning of Superman’s character arc, with Henry Cavill himself expressing his desire to portray a more joyful, "blue boy scout" Superman in future films. Sadly, with the DCEU now ended, we never got to see that vision fully realized. Other elements also fell short for me: The Fortress of Solitude as a generic Kryptonian ship lacks the unique wonder of the crystal palace seen in the comics and earlier films. The Fortress is Superman’s version of the Batcave but on a cosmic scale, filled with artifacts and treasures from his adventures. Jonathan Kent’s death didn’t work for me. I much prefer versions where Jonathan lives to see Clark become Superman. Unlike the Waynes, whose deaths are essential to Batman’s story, the Kents are more flexible in terms of whether they live or die, and this choice can shape the kind of Superman we get. Can we let Jonathan live in live-action, please? Thank you! The relationship between Clark and Lois lacked chemistry, and I never felt like these two characters "liked" each other. This problem persists throughout the DCEU for me. Finally, I don’t think Man of Steel was the right foundation for a connected DC universe. Rushing into Batman v Superman only made things worse. Instead of forcing Batman and Superman into conflict, they should have released a standalone Batman film or a World’s Finest team-up movie where they fight side-by-side, not each other. ------------------------------------------------------------- Hopeful for the Future: Thankfully, Superman (2025) looks like it’s fully embracing both the fantastical and hopeful side of the DC Universe. James Gunn’s version already feels more colorful and inspiring, with Superman returning to his roots as the hopeful "blue boy scout" we know and love. We’re even getting Krypto the Superdog! Something like that would’ve been considered "too outlandish" for the Snyderverse, according to some fans. A flying man? Fine. But a flying dog? That’s apparently where they drew the line! It’s refreshing to see Gunn lean into the more whimsical, heartwarming elements of Superman’s world, while still leaving room for genuine emotional depth. Krypto is a perfect example of how the DCU can balance fantastical elements with heartfelt storytelling. There’s already a stunning poster out, and the trailer drops this Thursday. Superman is back! :D

LittleGalaxyBoy

Thanks, Addie! I won't have time to watch this for a few days, but I look forward to seeing whether Henry Cavill can elicit the same flustered giddiness as Christopher Reeve... 😉

Phil Stubblefield

Surely you can fit in one more holiday movie before Christmas (and/or slightly after on YT)? 🤔

Byrd N. Hand

Thanks for this one, Addie. I liked this movie a lot although I think Zack Snyder can sometimes benefit from a tighter (shorter) edit of some of his films. For me, "Man of Steel" does not take away anything from Christopher Reeve's incredible performance in "Superman: The Movie" (1978). These are two different takes on a superhero. The only thing I had seen with (a very young) Henry Cavill before this was "The Count of Monte Cristo" (2002). This is an excellent film and I wouldn't mind seeing this someday as a reaction. Henry seems so young in this one I had to re-watch it to make sure it was the same Henry Cavill. I also like the film scores by John Williams and Hans Zimmer, although John Williams' theme song is the more rousing and inspiring one, IMO.

ButtercupsTrueLove

If you want to see another movie take on the character watch Superman Returns (2006). Not many have reacted to that on Youtube.

Marko T.

Happy Man of Steel Monday, Addie. I'm so glad that you enjoyed this movie, as you kick off the DC Extended Universe. See you on Wednesday for A Few Good Men (1992). BTW, perfect timing as the poster for the upcoming Superman (2025), with David Corenswet as Superman/Clark Kent, has been revealed. And PLEASE watch Red One (2024) for the channel. #RedOneForAddieCounts

Alex Tan


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