Few characters in the history of twentieth century popular culture have proven to be as enduring and iconic as Superman. Since his creation in the 1930s, Superman has undergone numerous transformations reflecting his presence in an ever-changing political and social landscape, appearing in a variety of media spanning outwards from his comic book roots, including radio, television and video games. Even before the character appeared on screen, his iconic blue costume, red cape and stylised red and yellow "S" shield on his chest was instantly recognisable to millions of people, and it is with good reason that Superman has frequently been cited as the greatest comic book hero of all time. Given his archetypal status - as a Nietzschian figure of transcendent man, mythological hero in the vein of Samson and Hercules and, more humbly, analogue for an immigrant figure adapting to American culture and values - it's no surprise that his appeal has been resilient across the decades. Capturing the essence of Superman on the silver screen and doing justice to the wealth and diversity of source material can be a tricky thing for any filmmaker to pull off, and with a character who has changed with the times it's inevitable that not everyone will be pleased with the results. Do you prefer the darker, more brooding vigilante incarnation of old or the humanitarian post-war Superman? Of course, it's all subjective, and with that in mind here's a break down of the Superman movies from worst to best. Subjectivity aside, few readers are likely to disagree with the first choice.
