Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story Movie Review: A poignant tribute to an iconic hero

Review: ‘Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story’ is a heartfelt documentary that dives deep into the life of the beloved actor who portrayed Superman on-screen and embodied resilience off-screen. Directors Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui craft a moving narrative that interweaves Reeve’s rise to stardom with his devastating horseback riding accident in 1995, which left him paralysed. The film balances his extraordinary public life and the intimate, personal moments shared by his children, wife Dana Reeve, and close friends.

The documentary’s emotional depth is driven by interviews with Reeve’s family, including his children, Alexandra, Matthew, and Will Reeve, who reflect on the day of the accident and the profound changes it brought to their lives. Gae Exton, Reeve’s former partner and mother of two of his children, also provides rare insights into their relationship. However, Dana Reeve, his wife and steadfast caregiver, emerges as a quiet hero. Her unwavering support and compassion offer a touching reminder of the true power of love and resilience. The inclusion of home videos adds an intimate layer, showcasing the strength of their family bond even through adversity.

While Reeve’s accident was a defining moment, the film doesn’t dwell solely on the tragedy. Instead, it celebrates his journey from being a Hollywood superstar to becoming a fierce advocate for spinal cord injury research and disability rights. The use of Reeve’s own voice, narrating from his audiobook Still Me, adds a deeply personal touch, reminding viewers of his indomitable spirit.

Visually, the film blends archival footage, rare behind-the-scenes clips of Reeve’s Superman, and innovative CGI to symbolise his paralysis through the metaphor of Kryptonite—a clever nod to his most famous role. The animated sequences depicting Reeve as a superhero confronting his own vulnerabilities are a creative highlight.

The documentary also features candid interviews with Reeve’s close friends, including Glenn Close, Susan Sarandon, and Jeff Daniels. Their stories—especially those about his friendships with fellow Juilliard classmates like Robin Williams—reveal a multifaceted Reeve, one who was both humble and deeply ambitious.

Despite the sombre tone, Super/Man is ultimately an uplifting film. It reinforces the idea that heroism isn’t about superhuman powers but about perseverance, empathy, and overcoming life’s greatest challenges. Christopher and Dana Reeve embodied these values, and their legacy continues through their children and the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation.

While the documentary may leave some viewers wanting to know more about Reeve’s pre-accident career or more details about his family relationships, it succeeds in portraying the essence of his character. This is a touching tribute to a man who, despite unimaginable hardship, found the strength to inspire others.