Ever since I was a kid, I was obsessed with superheroes. Batman was the epitome of cool, Spiderman was a character I could always relate too, but of course, I would give anything to be like Superman. Flight, heat vision, super strength, or basically anything the most powerful superhero ever imagined would be awesome. However, I also really love dark twists and takes on characters that I really like. I love it when I see people take superheroes, fairy tale characters, and make their stories dark, gloomy and twisted. In the modern day, it’s hard to imagine that this take become possible, but I’m pleased to see that we could could potentially have this door open to us as film fans.

When you take away Superman’s good nature, pure heart, and supreme character, you are left with someone who could potentially be a liability for humanity as opposed to an asset. That’s what really makes this a great concept. If Superman wasn’t such an upright dude, he’d be an unstoppable force that could take us out in an instant. It’s something that many comic book fans have actually wanted to see for years, because nothing would be cooler than having such a God be completely unleashed with his rage.

First of all, what I really loved about the movie: the concept. I love the idea of an evil Superman. In a world where comic book movies dominate, it’s so cool to finally see one that goes against the grain. One that doesn’t tie itself into tropes, takes creative liberties, and isn’t forced to be tied into a particular cinematic universe is so cool. We as movie fans and comic book fans don’t get to see a whole lot of this, and it becomes a fresh of breath air. Also the performances are amazing, especially Elizabeth Banks. Elizabeth Banks is absolutely terrific. Even if she is in a movie that isn’t so great, she will be the best thing about it, and I can’t wait to see what else she attaches herself to.

Another thing is the possibilities. I would love to see more evil super hero movies. I mean a Batman who loses his mind seeing his parents die, and starts killing people? Dude sign me up. Also, a Lex Luthor film who is actually a good guy, see’s Brandon Breyers, and wants to take him out? That is so cool, and I hope to see a sequel or spinoffs to this.

However, this movie isn’t without it’s faults. There are times that this movie does feel a little “thin”. There are moments of missed opportunities in terms of narrative, character development, and expansion that this movie doesn’t take for the sake of convenience. I feel like had they had added a little bit more, you could have potentially a candidate for one my favorite movies of the year. Make no mistake, this is damn good, but nowhere near where I wanted it to be unfortunately.

My grade and thoughts: I give this movie a solid B. I’m kind of sad that it wasn’t an A like I wanted it to be, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say that this was a good movie. Definitely go see it, support it, we don’t see movies like this a whole lot!