6. Formidable Opponents
There really isn't many ways to get away with this not happening. This is a Superman movie and the villains must be worthy adversaries. Although we saw Zod in Superman II, he hasn't had much of a presence outside of that film. Yes, there was an appearance in Smallville but nothing like the resonating performance that Terrance Stamp originally gave. While Mr. Stamp is a tough act to follow for Michael Shannon, I think a few decades in between takes some of the pressure off. This is a Superman film and hopefully franchise for a new generation and Michael Shannon has a great opportunity in front of him. Choosing villains that have the same power levels and abilities as your hero provides the possibility for really great action. It also allows for other factors to come into play. It's not as simple as getting rid of a missile or saving a plane from crashing, there has to be something more. Since Zod and Faora are fellow Kryptonians, this can affect Superman not only physically but mentally and emotionally as well. Would he want to destroy the only remaining people from his home planet? Could they help give him answers that he is so desperately seeking that he'd be willing to spare their lives even though it could risk the lives of billions of others? There's a great dichotomy that can be played with in that relationship and I have a feeling that's exactly what we're going to get. One more thing. Kryptonite is not an opponent. It is a weakness. With enemies like Zod and Faora, there's no need to go back to the overused Achilles heel that has plagued Superman from day one. We've been there, we've done it, we've seen it. I was very happy to hear that
Zack Snyder confirmed that the little green rock wouldn't have an appearance in this film. I'm sure it will come into play eventually but at least I won't have to see Superman almost drown wearing Kryptonite bling.