Multiple random bits and follow-ups today. Let's see where we go because I certainly don't know myself...
DC Studios opening logo |
Yesterday, I watched Superman (2025) for the third time in under a week; this time in IMAX, which is the BEST format to see the film. It gives you superior sound and the fullest extent of the viewing screen, really immersing you into the picture. One of the reasons for the multiple viewings is from my family members who want to see it with me! (Ahhhh, the benefits of being a lifelong comic book fan, I can offer expert testimony and commentary.) And as I predicted, my enjoyment of the movie continues to grow. I can honestly say I love it.
I appreciate Lois more and more, and find the interview scene to be such a clever way to not only recap pre-story events, but to expose the heart of their relationship and motivations as people. It was Clark's, "People were going to die!!" line that really hooked me the first time. Having lost his family, his world, etc.; he doesn't want anyone to go through the pain he has. This is why he tries to save everyone, including squirrels and B.E.Ms (bug-eye-monsters).
Sometimes when I hear an album for the first time, a few songs will immediately catch my ear and become quick favorites. These are the ones you want to listen to over and over. But with multiple listening's (usually three - the same number to get to the center of the tootsie roll pop), you start to uncover other hidden gems. They've been gradually infiltrating your mind, transitioning from background to foreground with subtle themes or moments that you don't realize you're becoming attuned to. Similarly, when you're cleaning you take care of the obvious things first and once they're out of the way, look what's underneath! And so it can be with some movies.
As I marinate on Superman again and again, I can unpack all the good things contained therein. The jokes land better because I'm prepared for them*, and the performances are seen more fully (not just the words but the gestures, especially on a giant screen). Guy Gardner is rising in prominence when initially (to me) he was overshadowed by Mister Terrific. Critics who complain about the busyness of the film and the almost overwhelming number of characters to process, aren't wrong, but that's only if you're a one-time-only consumer. As a creator do you produce your story to the lowest common denominator and simplify the storytelling, or do you challenge people to engage more fully? Here I think it worked, but it doesn't always.