In previous versions and in comics, the audience knew that Superman came from the distant planet Krypton and was sent to Earth to escape. Man of Steel begins with the image of Krypton’s end when the energy mass is nearly exhausted. At the time of settlement, General Zod attempted a coup and struggled for power. Scientist Jor-El objected vehemently. Faced with the dangers of Zod’s pursuit, Jor-El and his wife sent their newborn son, Kal-El, on a spaceship to another planet. Kal-El becomes Krypton’s last hope.
When the coup failed, Zod and his companions were exiled into space. In anger and hatred, he determined to find Kal-El. When the spacecraft crashed to Earth, Kal-El was taken care of by his grandparents Martha and Jonathan Kent, who gave him the name Clark Kent. With health and senses far exceeding human limits, young Clark Kent grew up with countless questions and concerns about himself. Upon realizing his true abilities, the young man sets out to find the answer to his mission and destiny…
Man of Steel does not follow the usual linear order but introduces Clark Kent’s origin and maturation process through memories and flashbacks. The film does not go into the details of how Clark’s ship reached Earth or how Mr. and Mrs. Kent found it, but focuses on Superman’s ego, when he realizes the extraordinary powers he possesses can change the history of mankind. Humanity’s reaction when learning of the existence of aliens is also emphasized in this work.
When watching Man of Steel, audiences will also see slightly darker colors like The Dark Knight series. If Marvel always intersperses many humorous and amusing details to reduce tension in superhero movies, then DC Comics is the opposite. It’s very difficult to find funny situations in movies like The Dark Knight or Man of Steel. The main atmosphere in the film is dark and dramatic with moments that show psychological depth and evoke many meaningful messages. The heroic music of famous composer Hans Zimmer once again creates intense emotions for Christopher Nolan’s blockbusters.
Playing Superman in this new version is emerging British actor – Henry Cavill. Although his acting is not convincing, Henry has a statue-like face and body. His appearance perfectly fits the image of Superman – both fiercely strong but inside very weak and sensitive. In addition to Henry, Man of Steel also brings together a cast of famous actors such as Amy Adams (as Lois Lane), Russell Crowe (as Superman’s father), Diane Lane (as Martha) or Kevin Costner (as Jonathan). The character Lana Lang, Clark Kent’s first love, is only mentioned briefly in this version.