NaN’s Top Five Superman Movies

(Photo created with Canva)

Written by Colleen Bement, Editor

With James Gunn’s Superman swooping into theaters on July 11th, now is the perfect time to take a look back at the history of the Man of Steel. Over the decades, Superman has evolved from a George Reeves leaping tall buildings in a single bound to a symbol of hope in a complex world with films and television shows that have captivated us for years. The superhero icon was created by writer Jerry Siegel and artist Joe Shuster back in 1938. They were high school buddies from Cleveland that were inspired by the tough years of the Great Depression. Their legacy carries on with fresh new takes on Superman movies and TV shows, so let’s prep for the next chapter by counting down the Top 5 Superman Movies of All Time. 

 

5. Superman Returns (2006)

Directed by: Bryan Singer | Starring: Brandon Routh

 

This spiritual successor to the Christopher Reeve classics often gets overlooked, but it deserves a spot in the top five for its heartfelt tone and amazing visuals. Brandon Routh stepped into the boots of a more melancholy Superman returning after a mysterious five-year absence. Some fans liked the more of a brooding superhero. They had been through a LOT! While the movie lacked action, it delivered a respectful homage to the mythos—plus, Routh’s Superman saving the falling airplane remains an iconic scene.

4. Zack Snyder’s Justice League (2021)

Directed by: Zack Snyder | Starring: Henry Cavill

 

While not solely a Superman movie, this epic, four-hour director’s cut gave fans the version of Superman we were looking for. Albeit, 4 hours was over-the-top, but it gave us a lot to enjoy: Maybe in two sittings, if needed. It also was a nice reminder of those of us who loved the Super Friends Saturday morning cartoons in the 70s. Henry Cavill’s black-suited resurrection and climactic arrival during the final battle were pure Kryptonian power. This film not only restored Superman’s power, but also solidified Cavill’s place in the Superman verse.. It’s moody, mythic, and loaded with comic book grandeur.

3. Man of Steel (2013)

Directed by: Zack Snyder | Starring: Henry Cavill

 

Bold, divisive, and beautifully shot, Man of Steel gave Superman a 21st-century makeover. This origin story reimagined Clark Kent’s journey with a heavier emotional tone and high-stakes destruction. Cavill brought a grounded intensity, Michael Shannon killed it as General Zod,  and Hans Zimmer’s score practically lifted us into the sky. It’s a Superman for a post-9/11 world—brooding but hopeful.

2. Superman II (1980)

Directed by: Richard Lester and Richard Donner) | Starring: Christopher Reeve

 

This is the movie that made us all believe Superman could really throw down. Clark gives up his powers for love, then must regain them to face the villainous trio of Zod, Ursa, and Non. It has heart, romance, action, and—most importantly—Christopher Reeve in full command of the role. Having Hackman and Kidder back was also a big treat. “Kneel before Zod” became pop culture gold, and the battle in Metropolis still holds up as a classic super-powered showdown. Completely off topic but Supernatural fans might remember what was probably a nod to that scene in the episode ‘Wishful Thinking.’ 

 

Superman: The Movie (1978)

Directed by: Richard Donner | Starring: Christopher Reeve

You can’t beat the original. Richard Donner’s “Superman” didn’t just kick off the Superman saga—it invented the superhero blockbuster. The special effects were groundbreaking for its time, the gorgeous score by none other than John Williams, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster at the helm writing, along with Mario Puzo, couldn’t have done a better job. And, of course, Christopher Reeve’s definitive performance will always be a favorite. This film really touched our emotions and the storyline holds up to today. It almost made us believe that we could fly. It captured everything Superman is supposed to be: noble, compassionate, and larger than life. Simply put, it’s the blueprint. For us romantics out there, we’ll leave you with this.

Do you agree with our list? Did we miss your favorite?  Let us know your top Superman picks before the next chapter hits theaters! Check out the trailer for James Gunn’s Superman.

 

Lynn Makes

Hi, I’m Lynn, and I Make.
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