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"Man of Steel" is a serious treatment of the classic Superman story. Snyder directed "300" and "Watchmen," but "Man of Steel" has less "comic book" feel than his other movies taken from graphic novels. And like Snyder's other movies, Superman is over-the-top and action-filled from beginning to end. Audiences will enjoy the ride whether or not they are longtime Superman fans.
The special effects are a feast for the eyes, though I found myself getting a bit full. Superman gets thrown through so many buildings it's amazing that there are any left standing in Metropolis by the end of the movie.
Henry Cavill ("Immortals," "The Count of Monte Cristo") does a wonderful job playing Clark Kent/Kal-El/Superman, a young man who wants to help in every way he can while still concealing his powers. There is so much back story in the movie, that sometimes it was difficult to understand the motives for his actions.
Oscar winner Russell Crowe ("Gladiator") plays Jor-El, Superman's real father from Krypton. As usual Crowe delivers a great performance, but Jor-El is involved in more of the plot than I would have liked, taking the focus away from Kal-El.
Four-time Oscar nominee Amy Adams ("The Master," "The Fighter") portrays Superman's love interest, Lois Lane. She plays the spunky reporter well, but there isn't much chemistry between her and Cavill.
Oscar nominee Diane Lane ("Unfaithful") and Oscar winner Kevin Costner ("Dances with Wolves") are effective as Clark Kent's earthly parents and while they infuse him with morality and integrity, they also fear revealing his secrets. And yet, surprisingly, we see very little of them.
I thoroughly enjoyed this movie, even if it was a bit longer than perhaps it needed to be.
"Man of Steel" has a total running time of 2 hours 23 minutes and is rated PG13.
Derek Zemrak is a Film Critic, Film Producer and Founder of the California Independent Film Festival. You can follow Derek on Twitter @zemrak for the latest Hollywood news. Derek is the host of Real to Reel on TRadioV.com live at 6 p.m. every Tuesday.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA