Actors: Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Michael Shannon, Kevin Costner, Diane Lane
Directors: Zack Snyder
Number of discs: 3
Rated: PG-13 (Parental Guidance Suggested)
Studio: Warner Home Video
Release Date: November 12, 2013
Run Time: 143 minutes
Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 2.5 out of 5 stars
After watching “Superman Returns”, I had a bad taste in my mouth concerning the Superman franchise. I honestly wasn’t too thrilled to find out about this reboot either but then I found out that Zack Snyder (“300”, “Sucker Punch”) was signed on. His vision to his films are so unique and he really brought that to this film. You know that this was a Zack Snyder film and that is a good thing. “Man of Steel” is quite long running nearly 2.5 hours, so there are some pacing issues but it is still one hell of a wild visual ride. Easily one of the most entertaining films I have seen this year.
Henry Cavill delivers the Superman performance we were all hoping for. He made the role his own and didn’t try to replicate past portrayals. Michael Shannon was good but not outstanding as Zod but I liked his back story. Actually one of my favorite parts was the opening scene with Russell Crowe playing Jor-El. I loved the introduction of Krypton. It was mouth dropping and a great way to kick off the film. Highly recommended for any true DC Comics fan and I can’t wait to see what they are doing with the “Batman vs. Superman” film in 2015.
“Man of Steel” comes as a combo pack including a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD UltraViolet copy. Warner Bros delivered a very fine Blu-ray in terms of audio/video presentation. The 1080p transfer is rock solid and looks very sharp. I have to admit, I was a little nervous since I really loved the 3D presentation of this film in theaters. But the film in 2D is still as visual awesome just missing that slight depth. In terms of audio, Warner’s delivered a wall-shaking DTS-HD Master Audio 7.1. This film has no shortage of action at all and this track is amped up and kicks some major ass.
Since I still prefer the film in 3D, “Man of Steel” will also be available as a Blu-ray 3D Combo Pack and as a 3D Limited Collector’s Edition (which is what I am purchasing). The 3D Collector’s Edition includes a limited release metal “S” glyph with a lucite glass stand. Also hardcore fans should also note that Amazon is also offering an exclusive Action Figure Gift Set, which includes two 1:16 scale figurines of Superman and General Zod taken from DC Collectibles sculpted by Gentle Giant Studios.
In terms of special features, “Man of Steel” delivers one amazing special features along with a few other decent at best extras. “Journey of Discovery: Creating ‘Man of Steel'” is a super intensive feature-length experience which allows you to watch the film with director Zack Snyder and stars Henry Cavill, Amy Adams, Diane Lane and more. It is sort of like a visual commentary track but definitely worth checking out and great for replay value. The rest of the extras include “Strong Characters, Legendary Roles”, which is a look into the characters legacy. “All-Out Action” looks into the training actors has to go through in order to get ready for their roles. “Krypton Decoded – Dylan Sprayberry (Clark Kent Age 13)” looks at the techie tools found in the film. Lastly “Planet Krypton” dives deeper into the lost world.
Official Premise: A young boy learns that he has extraordinary powers and is not of this Earth. As a young man, he journeys to discover where he came from and what he was sent here to do. But the hero in him must emerge if he is to save the world from annihilation and become the symbol of hope for all mankind.
Man of Steel is available on Blu-Ray 11/12/13 at the WB Shop http://bit.ly/MOSwbshop
