Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story – Review

“What is a hero?”

The concept of heroism often evokes images of mythical legends, their larger-than-life exploits fueling our imaginations and shaping our ideals. We tend to view these figures as symbols of strength and resilience, their stories offering escapism and inspiration. And perhaps no hero, or in instance, superhero, embodies these qualities more than Superman, the Man of Steel who captured the hearts of millions with his unwavering commitment to truth and justice. And when it comes to the big screen, there will always be Christopher Reeve, who made the world believe that a man can fly. With his chiselled physique and unwavering gaze, Reeve first brought the Last Son of Krypton to life in Richard Donner’s Superman (1978), forever etching his image into the pantheon of cinematic heroes.

Reeve’s portrayal of Superman was so convincing, so perfectly aligned with the comic book ideal, that the tragic accident that befell him in 1995 felt particularly cruel. Thrown from a horse during an equestrian competition, Reeve suffered a spinal cord injury that left him paralysed from the neck down. The irony of Superman, a symbol of invincibility, becoming confined to a wheelchair was not lost on the world. It was a devastating blow, not just for Reeve and his loved ones, but for the millions who had come to see him as the embodiment of heroic ideals.

This profound irony is explored with great sensitivity and depth in Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, a documentary that chronicles Reeve’s life, inevitably focusing on the accident and its aftermath. The film allows Reeve to speak with intimate candour about his initial despair and the surreal nightmare he experienced.

“We need all the heroes we can get,” Reeve states near the beginning of the documentary, a sentiment that resonates throughout the film. Directors Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, known for their nuanced approach to biographical documentaries along the likes of McQueen (2018) – a documentary that shone light on British fashion designer Alexander McQueen – and Paralympic Games-focused Rising Phoenix (2020), strike a delicate balance between celebrating Reeve’s iconic status and exploring the personal struggles he faced after his accident. Unlike their previous subject (McQueen) who tragically succumbed to his demons, Reeve’s story is one of resilience and triumph over adversity.

For those unfamiliar with the cultural landscape of 1978, it’s difficult to grasp the monumental impact of Donner’s Superman, which rose above the initial scepticism and the unexpected triumph of Reeve’s performance. Reeve was among the many who were in the running for the role of Superman, with the most notable being A-listers like Paul Newman (Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Hustler) and Robert Redford (All the President’s Men, The Natural). Even Arnold Schwarzenegger (The Terminator, Predator) and singer-songwriter Neil Diamond expressed interest in donning the iconic red cape.

Superman catapulted the then-unknown Broadway actor to superstardom, his portrayal of the Man of Steel becoming the definitive interpretation for a generation. At a time when superhero movies were mainly a joke or a rarity, Reeve’s embodiment of both the bumbling Clark Kent and the awe-inspiring Superman proved to be a winning combination, captivating audiences and critics alike. Even the briefest glimpses of Reeve soaring through the skies with Margot Kidder’s Lois Lane, accompanied by John Williams’ iconic score, are enough to evoke a sense of wonder. His performance in Superman II (1980) further solidified his status, showcasing the duality of Clark Kent and Superman with remarkable nuance.

While acknowledging the influence of the Superman films on Reeve’s career, the documentary doesn’t shy away from his later cynicism towards the role, touching upon his frustration with being typecast and his disappointment with the declining quality of Superman III (1983) and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987). Thankfully, the film wisely chooses not to dwell on these aspects, recognising that Reeve’s story extends far beyond his superhero persona.

Nevertheless, there’s no denying that Reeve’s image as Superman, a symbol of strength and invincibility, amplified the shock and sorrow when he reappeared in public at the 1996 Academy Awards, less than a year after his accident. The documentary featured footage of Reeve’s journey to the Oscars, revealing the logistical challenges and emotional weight of his public return. This powerful moment is further enriched by the revelation of longtime friend and Juilliard schoolmate Robin Williams’ (Dead Poets Society, Good Will Hunting) instrumental role in orchestrating Reeve’s appearance, showcasing the depth of their friendship and unwavering support. Glenn Close (Fatal Attraction, 101 Dalmatians), a close friend of both actors, even suggested that Williams’ own tragic passing might have been prevented had Reeve still been alive.

Beyond Reeve’s public persona and struggles, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story also delves into the deeply personal topic of family. His three children, Alexandra, Matthew, and Will, offer intimate reflections on their father, their words interwoven with heartwarming home videos and archival footage that capture the joy and love within their family. The film traces Reeve’s evolving relationships, from his ten-year partnership with British modelling agent Gae Exton, with whom he had two children (Alexandra and Matthew), to his marriage to actress-singer Dana Reeve (née Morosini), the mother of his youngest son, Will. 

Although Reeve and Exton never married and eventually parted ways – a decision that eerily echoed the marital patterns of his own parents – his subsequent marriage to Morosini displayed a profound depth of love and commitment. This relationship proved pivotal, offering Reeve a stable family life that was crucial in overcoming his bouts of depression. The dynamic within their blended family, with Dana warmly embracing Alexandra and Matthew while nurturing a strong sibling bond with Will, highlights a cohesive familial unit. Even Exton remained a part of their lives, and the film captures a particularly poignant moment as she reflects on her relationship with Reeve, along with the enduring affection they shared. 

One of the most remarkable aspects of Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story is its ability to find hope and resilience amidst tragedy. While acknowledging the devastating impact of Reeve’s accident, the film centres on his extraordinary journey of recovery (he learned to breathe, speak, and ultimately, to live a fulfilling life), and his transformation into a passionate advocate for the disabled, chronicling his tireless efforts to raise awareness and secure funding for spinal cord injury research. In doing so, Reeve stepped off his superhero pedestal and became a true human hero, his empathy and determination shining brighter than any fictional superpower. 

“A hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles,” says Reeve in his autobiography, Still Me (1998). Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story embodies this sentiment, offering an intimate and achingly honest portrait of a man who redefined heroism. It’s a must-see documentary that celebrates Reeve’s legacy, not just as a cinematic icon, but as a beacon of hope and resilience for those facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. Just remember the tissues – this narrative, rich with triumph and tearful moments, demands them.