Superman (1978)

While cliche or thin by today's standards, Superman (1978) remains a template for modern blockbusters. Via flat characters with vague motivations, its drama is shallow. The romance is underdeveloped and its villain is a campy mustache-twirler. There are no internal struggles or arcs. Complicated themes are sidestepped for rosy American exceptionalism. Its plot meanders with little setup/payoff. It dumps heavy exposition, skims excessive storylines, and abandons low stakes for a sudden finale. There's corny humor, predictability, and contrivances. The acting delivers range plus charm. Nevertheless, the pieces of a competent formula are present even if they're missing cohesion.

Superman aims for a wholesome adventure tone. The cinematography has purposeful lighting plus angles. Despite solid action and emotional cooldowns, its editing fumbles pacing, momentum, and structure. The sound adds genre elements as well as subjective emphasis. Its music provides an iconic John Williams theme. The production design establishes Americana, 70s sci-fi, and a famous (though quaint) hero costume. Along with reliable supporters, its casting of Reeve is inseparable from the role. The effects utilize an array of impressive techniques from its time (like miniatures, compositing, stunts, pyrotechnics, makeup, and wires). Overall, Superman is a flawed trailblazer.

Writing: 3/10

Direction: 6/10

Cinematography: 7/10

Acting: 7/10

Editing: 4/10

Sound: 9/10

Score/Soundtrack: 10/10

Production Design: 8/10

Casting: 9/10

Effects: 10/10

Overall Score: 7.3/10

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