Review of Superman Returns

As a fan of the first two films, as well as Tv shows Lois & Clark and Smallville. I have to admit that I went to see Superman Returns expecting to be disappointed. I'm so happy I was wrong. I expected recycled cliches, but instead got a fresh perspective of this classic story. Even with a few plot holes, I feel that the writers gave us a engrossing and entertaining tale that fully involves and develops each character.
The actors each brought us a full presentation of the people we know and love (or in the case of Lex Luthor; love to hate),the only exception to this would be Kate Bosworth as Lois Lane. I think Ms. Bosworth is a fine actress, but she is just not strong enough to pull the spark and "Spit" needed to be Lois Lane. Kevin Spacey plays Lex Luthor with such sarcastic, vindictive & plain evil perfection I am reminded as to why Lex is always a favorite villian. And Mr. Spacey does so with such ease and grace that he draws attention to the strength of his costars. Brandon Routh as Superman really suprised me, I did not expect him to be able to so completely take on this role that you sometimes forgot that he hadn't always played it. His performance, mannerisms and speech are so similar to Christopher Reeve's portrayal while adding his own stamp on it as well. It was the perfect way to blend the old with the new. James Marsden brought a lot of heart and power to his role. You very quickly see that he is not just a pretty boy but has compassion, courage and a spirit that make him a worthy contender for Lois' affection. The supporting cast is all fantastic, from Parker Posey's dream-big henchman with a conscience, Frank Langella's hard-hitting, no bull Perry White all the way to having Noel Niell (one of the original Lois Lane's) make a small appearance.
The effects are so amazing you actually find yourself forgetting that a man can't really fly, but even more, you just don't care.
Bryan Singer's direction brings all this together is such a seamless way that from the moment THAT music starts till the very end it brings out that little eight year old who still believes in superheros, truth, justice and the spirit of it all.

As always, there were plot holes, over played scenes, and predictable shocks and twists. But in my humble opinion, that all washes away in this fascinating and captivating tale showing all of us "Why the World Needs Superman" all over again.