Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut

I'll post a full review at some point, but I just want to briefly say that Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut is mostly an improvement over the official Richard Lester version, with some parts being a revelation (particularly the additional scenes of Marlon Brando as Jor-El and his scenes with Christopher Reeve).

It's mostly comprised of Donner's footage, but there are some new CGI effects shots, a few new shots using body doubles, as well as some Lester footage necessary to bridge the gaps. However, editor Michael Thau has removed the slapstick gags from Lester's footage, so it blends much better with the overall tone of Donner's cut.

Overall, Richard Donner's cut is the better film even with its rough edges, and it shows what Superman II could have been if Donner hadn't been fired. Recommended for Superman fans.