It’s our first look at Brandon Routh as Superman, from Bryan Singer’s new movie Superman Returns.
Singer decided to keep the cape, the blue body suit, the red tights…even the V-cut opening of Superman’s boots.
But Superman Returns makes a few subtle changes to the suit:
1—The character’s chest-shield S insignia is slightly smaller and higher on his chest, and instead of being painted on, it’s more of a three-dimensional plate.
2—The insignia is added to Superman’s belt buckle.
3—Costume designer Louise Mingenbach preserved the blue, red and yellow motif, but the shades are slightly darker than the bright primary colors of the comics. Superman’s yellow belt is more golden, and his cape is a deep scarlet.
My reaction? Wow…with one or two caveats.
Instantly, I was transported back to Christopher Reeve’s timeless image of Superman. I like the materials used, and Routh certainly looks stunning in the outfit.
That said, I think the big chest-shield S is too small…there’s something to be said for the bigger S, and how it emblazoned itself on the consciousness of viewers. Even Lois & Clark, back in 1993, changed their minds, reverting to a larger S after using a smaller one in the pilot.
That said, I’ll get used to it — overall, it’s exactly what it should be: an image of Superman we all have, come to life before our eyes. Do I really have to wait until next Christmas to see this movie?
ARGHRrrr…
