Wednesday, 30 August 2017

SUPERMAN IV (1987)

Featuring: Christopher Reeve; Gene Hackman; Margot Kidder
Director: Sidney J Furie

Whereas Superman III was a bit of a derailment, with Superman IV the series is back on track. Most of the original cast is back too, including Gene Hackman as Lex Luthor. Over the years I have seen many versions of this character in other derivatives of the Superman saga but no one did it justice like him.

This film then also kicks off with Lex Luthor escaping from custody with the help of his dimwitted nephew, hilariously portrayed by none other than Two and a half Men's Jon Cryer. Soon afterwards Lex is approached by some weapons dealers with the request that he helps them doing away with Superman. This is because the latter vowed to rid the earth of all nuclear weapons. And in order to achieve this, Lex creates his own secret weapon: Nuclear Man who has to challenge and destroy the Man of Steel.

As mentioned, this third sequel is a vast improvement on the previous one. The story, though still completely fantastical, is much more coherent and at least makes sense, especially the battle scene on the moon. And Mariel Hemingway makes a delightful addition to the now familiar cast.

I can again give it 3 out of 5 stars.

Trailer link:

 Superman meets Nuclear Man

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