It’s a bird … it’s a plane … it’s a grumpy longshoreman with a beard?
This weekend gives us the first peek at “Man of Steel,” the film reboot of the popular Superman character. Seems the 2006 version, starring a perfectly fine Brandon Routh, didn’t quite take. That film clung too eagerly to the Christopher Reeve franchise, down to using riffs from that series’ iconic score and Routh’s uncanny resemblance to his late predecessor.
That doesn’t appear to be the case with Henry Cavill’s version of Clark Kent’s alter ego.
The new “Man of Steel” teaser trailer doesn’t offer much in the way of storyline, special effects or super villainy. It’s a tone poem of a trailer, the kind meant to suggest a change in approach that’s nearly as radical as comparing “The Dark Knight” to Adam West’s avuncular Batman from the swingin’ 60s.
The trailer shows Cavill, a relatively unknown actor whose biggest work to date was “Immortals,” lumbering around a ship sporting a beard and what appears to be a heavy psychological burden.
We hear Kevin Costner’s grumbling voice – he plays Clark Kent’s pappy – hinting at the choices the young man must face as he embraces his super destiny.
Since Superman has two daddies, Warner Bros. released two very similar trailers. The second features the voice of Russell Crowe, taking over for Marlon Brando as Jor-El.
“In time, you will help them accomplish wonders …” Jor-El promises.
The trailers suggest a confidence on the marketing end. This isn’t what Superman fans have been pining to see, but they released a moody duo of teases all the same.
“Man of Steel” stars Cavill, Crowe, Costner, Amy Adams, Diane Lane, Michael Shannon and Lawrence Fishburne.