Superman (Christopher Reeve)!, better know as Clark Kent, the super powered caped hero from Krypton that has captured our hearts over the decades has made a comeback in a documentary, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story.
Although he is not flying through the sky or crunching steel this time round, the documentary showcases his strengths as an actor and his struggles after being injured in a horse-riding accident in 1995 that left him paralysed from the neck down.
After becoming a quadriplegic the American actor, director, and author became an activist in his quest to find a possible cure for injuries linked to the spine and disability rights. The resilience of the actor is remarkable, as he continued to work in front of and behind the camera, never allowing his injuries to stifle his career and dedication to his family.
Through heartfelt interviews with his children, Matthew, Alexandra, and William, the documentary paints an intimate portrait of the Reeve family. Home videos offer a glimpse into their lives, showcasing both the joys and challenges they faced together. Alexandra, reflecting on the film’s impact, shared with Reuters, “It was a huge leap of faith… but it’s also a total gift. We sat there in the screening room… and I remember the lights coming up at the end and… one of the first things I said was: ‘You just gave us two hours with our parents again.’”
This documentary serves as a poignant reminder of Christopher Reeve’s enduring legacy, not just as Superman, but as a man who faced adversity with extraordinary courage and grace. “Super/Man” is a must-watch, offering an intimate look at the man behind the superhero, celebrating his strength both on and off the screen. We can expect it to hit streaming services in South Africa sometime in November, for now this brilliant trailer will have to do.
