Every Live-Action Superman Movie & TV Show Ranked

The first film in the original Superman series, this was the perfect introduction to the Last Son of Krypton. This film laid out the origin story of Superman in a way that was very faithful to the comic books, including the heart-breaking death of Jonathan Kent.

The effects of this film were revolutionary for the time. The tagline of the poster was “You’ll believe a man can fly.” And director Richard Donner really delivered on this promise. The effects of Superman flying, particularly a sequence involving a helicopter, really showcases Superman’s powers in this incarnation.

Then we have Christopher Reeve…who is just tremendous. Reeve embodies Superman, everything you know about Superman is in this performance. The costume, the humour, the seriousness, the mannerisms. Christopher Reeve IS Superman.

Reeve also has a strong cast to work with. His chemistry with both Margot Kidder’s Lois Lane and Gene Hackman’s Lex Luthor is incredible, the latter being one of the most unique portrayals in comic book movies history.

This film was the perfect starting point for a franchise, allowing new fans to jump on board and take this journey with Superman. It’s an incredible, accessible film.