The new documentary SUPER/MAN: THE CHRISTOPHER REEVE STORY is long on heart but falls short as a retrospective of Reeve's career.
If you're looking for a beautiful story of one man's ability to inspire through tragedy, Ian Bonhote and Peter Ettedgui's film truly capture that angle.
We see Reeve's competitive drive, his idyllic family life and the success that his acting career earns him.
As the competitive riding accident happens, the impact on his life and those around him is depicted honestly and powerfully.
As he grows aware of the true extent of his injuries, the power of Chris's relationship with his wife Dana Reeve is truly inspirational.
Where the documentary feels unfinished is as any kind of reflection on Reeve's career once he hits the big screen. We do see his early college theater work and plenty of details about his casting as The Man of Steel. I loved seeing all the behind the scenes history of the filming of Superman. Reeve comes off as genuine, charming and kind every step of the way.
While it's touched on, there is certainly a lot more to tell about his biggest role as the films around him degenerated from the brilliant original "Superman" in 1978 to the absolute schlock crapfest that was "Superman IV: The Quest for Peace", less than a decade later.
We get clips, but the fan film in me wants more back stories on how producers wasted all audience goodwill so quickly.
Also, I would have loved to have seen more about Reeve's other film roles in "Monsignor" and "Deathtrap" or more details and clips from his TV remake of "Rear Window".
The film chooses to focus solely on Reeve's life post accident, his recovery, his constant refusal to accept what's "possible" and redefine what that means. There were many moments that punch you in the gut and truly define Reeve as a real life superhero.
What also struck me is the way he treats people throughout his life. Stardom never changed him, but his interactions with people post accident go to the next level as an example of humanity at its best.
As an activist for spinal cord injury treatments and disability rights, Reeve sets a standard that will be hard to match.
There are plenty of stars like Glenn Close and Susan Sarandon that share stories. His friendship with Robin Williams for decades is moving. I loved Jeff Daniels perspective as a fellow college student with Chris. He provides unvarnished insight into their friendship and Reeve's earliest acting roles.
Chris & Dana's children, Will, Alexandra, Matthew are all terrific as well.
Proving it's possible to be a superhero on and off the big screen, Christopher Reeve's story leaves you wanting to do better.
For that alone, it's worth watching. I just feel like it could have soared had it offered a deeper dive into the full film legacy of Reeve.
When you combine the full details of Dana's life in combination with her husband's, it almost leaves you winded with the challenges they faced.
For the inspiration they provide alone, the film earns a solid B.
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