Ranking the Superman Movies

With talks stalled on plans for the WB’s new Superman movies, it seems like a good time to take a look at the five full-length Superman features, beginning with the original Christopher Reeve Superman filmed in 1978, to the 2006 Superman Returns, starring Brandon Routh.

Christopher Reeve is the “man of steel” to many. Despite the many animated and short films based on the epic superhero, the Superman movies hold a special place in the historical realm of superhero movies.

Let’s explore the five feature-length Superman films and rank them in order from the best to the worst or least-best, depending on how you look at it.

Ranking the Superman movies

1. Superman II (1980) – Of all the Christopher Reeve Supermans, the second film is the most riveting and memorable from a plot perspective. In order for Superhero films to work, you have to have tribulation and villains that are “almost” insurmountable. With three criminals possessing similar talents to the hero himself, Superman definitely met his matches. Other reasons this movie is so compelling include a romantic rendezvous and reveal (later withdrawn) with Lois Lane. Superman also makes a decision to give up his powers to make a life with Lois and faces the harsh realities of mortality when he is beat up by a man in a diner. He later makes things right after regaining his heroic stature.

2. Superman III (1983) – The dominant story of this third leg in the Superman movies was the inner battle between good Superman and evil Superman. Superman is overcome by dark kryptonite and he becomes destructive. In order to find himself, he must battle the demon within. Lex Luther (Gene Hackman) is up to no good and Richard Pryor plays a significant role. The final scene in an underground cave is very memorable.

3. Superman (1978) – The original Superman film marked the feature film debut of the man in blue played by Reeve. The story of Superman begins as his planet is destroyed. His parents send him to earth to survive, giving him the talent and knowledge to succeed and thrive in his new home. One of the most memorable scenes of all the Superman movies is the hero flying around the earth and turning back time to save Lois after Lex helps spark an earthquake.

4. Superman Returns (2006) – Recreating a legenary movie series, especially after its iconic star (Reeve) has just died, is very tough. However, the first version of the new Superman movies was surprisingly intriguing and captivating. It doesn’t measure up to the epic nature of the original three, but it was a nice effort.

5. Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987) – Many people forget that this movie was ever made. It wasn’t nearly up to the standard of the original trilogy, and very much seemed like an afterthought, coming four years after Superman 3. Superman again faces an equally (perhaps more) gifted foe who was designed by Lex Luther. Superman tries to help end the nuclear arms race and actually helps create his new nemesis. A romantic triangle emerges as well as Lois is not the only lady in Clark’s Kent’s life.

Agree or disagree with the Superman movies rankings? Feel free to add a comment and share your own top 5 or favorite Superman film.

This Superman movie rankings feature was written by Neil of Movie Room Reviews

See also:

• Ranking the Rocky Movies