Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story documents the bravery and heroism shown by the actor, best known for portraying Superman, after he suffered life-altering injuries. Source: Australian Catholics.
Reeve was the popular star of four Superman movies (1978-87).
In 1995, aged 42, a near-fatal horse-riding accident left Reeve paralysed from the neck down. His horse refused to jump in a competition, and he was thrown to the ground, rendering him a quadriplegic for the remainder of his life.
Reeve, who died in 2004, became an activist for spinal cord injuries and disability rights that inspired all who saw and heard him.
This documentary intimately explores the tragedy that Reeve experienced and its effect on him and his family after his accident, with his adult children sharing their personal insights.
Threaded throughout the film are personal statements from Reeve’s close friends, including Glenn Close, Susan Sarandon, Whoopi Goldberg and the late Robin Williams.
The movie also shows multiple scenes from Reeve’s Superman movies, which remind viewers of his cinematic exploits by featuring the role that made him famous.
The documentary offers a redemptive account of the story of an iconic actor who became an extremely effective activist.
Reeves became the champion of positive help and understanding that brought both emotional and financial support to the suffering of persons with injuries like his own.
It is arguable that Reeve’s portrayal of Superman set the benchmark for the superhero cinematic universe that came after him in the movies.
This film offers a powerful tribute to Reeve and movingly highlights his legacy. It tells an emotionally compelling story that demonstrates the power of love, affection, and family support, which fostered his resilience and total determination to stay alive.
Review by Peter W Sheehan, Jesuit Media
Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story: Starring Christopher Reeve. Directed by Ian Bonhote and Peter Ettedgui. Rated M (Coarse Language). 105 min.
FULL REVIEW
Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story (Australian Catholics)
