Man of Steel

"People are afraid of what they don't understand."

Across an ocean of stars, a planet named Krypton faces extinction.  In a final act of desperation and hope, a newborn boy is sent from it to seek refuge on Earth, where he grows up as Clark Kent.  Forbidden from betraying his true self, he finds himself torn between two worlds as vengeful forces pursue him.

Man of Steel is a new, modernised take on the story of the first and most iconic superhero, told with staggering scope and rich stylistic detail.  The film is at once a heightened science-fiction, with the opening sequences set on a far away apocalyptic planet among the stars; and is yet authentically realistic, with the plot subsequently grounded in an identifiable contemporary society.  The extraordinary is practically rationalised and accounted for throughout the narrative; allowing a previously untouchable hero to feel both authentic and relevant.  The non-linear narrative also allows the film to subvert many of the genre's cliches.  The stunning effects and cinematography are set to a subtle yet powerful score by Hans Zimmer; producing a most epic tone to the film.

Henry Cavill is divine as Clark Kent.  He plays the role perfectly, with hopeful blue eyes that betray the loneliness and depth of responsibility that hangs over him.  Just as the plot is conflicted between the agendas of two worlds, so is Clark torn between his inexplicable ties to humanity and his extraordinary heritage.  Amy Adams also delivers a strong and beautiful Lois Lane, driven by courage and curiosity.

The film poses the dangerous consequences of the denial and acceptance of identity, as the protagonist struggles with secrecy.  In particular, it delves into the implications that would be had upon modern society's perception of reality.  This is intricately linked with the theme of choice, and the deadly tension between a dictated destiny and free-will.   The villain of the plot subsequently poses an intense and intriguing threat, due to the justification behind his decisions.

Man of Steel is stunning and epic: the perfect blend of heightened science-fiction and realistic contemporary relevance.  The film ends on the most perfect note; teasing and creating great anticipation for the next chapter.