"Man of Steel!"

     Hello:
   Last week I went to see "man of Steel."  Tagging along with me was my sister Susan and her grandson (my grand nephew) Brice, and my little Bubby (venerable grandson) Gavyn.  We went in the afternoon when the crowds weren't as large, just in case the little guys acted up (they are 7 &5 respectively). 
     Well, the movie started and I settled back to enjoy yet another foray into the life of Superman.  I've seen all the movies, about half the various television shows, and had read his exploits in the pages of DC comics since the mid 1960's.  Needless to say I was prepared for anything.  I was not disappointed!  This movie kind of took the legend and brought it into a new light (aha, you thought I was going to say new direction, didn't you?).  There was a much heavier presence of the planet Krypton and the things which led to its destruction.  A few years ago I read Kevin J. Anderson's wonderful novel; "The Last days of Krypton," and couldn't help but think that some of its charm and influence helped shape the view of a world being destroyed by complacencey, greed, and apathy.  This was the technologically advanced world Kal was born into but luckily would not have to grow up in.
   Now, here's part of the problem that may have confused some.  This movie took the stance of how an alien being could be introduced into a world where fear of the unknown could (and probably would) lead to fear, hatred, and a desire to destroy.  I got it right away.  There was nothing different about this origin, just a little icing on the cake that was left out of former versions of the "Man of Steel" and his upbringing.  It doesn't matter what year has been chosen for his time on Earth, the fact remains he is an alien with powers far beyond those of mortal men (you like how I sneaked that one in?) and as such his introduction to the world would have to be handled with kid gloves (remember the panic broadcast and what it caused, and that was only reading a story over the radio!!!  I rest my case).
   Unfortunatley, General Zod, that dastardly military leader from Krypton who was banished, along with his staunch followers, to the dreaded..."Phantom Zone" brought him out into the open by invading Earth's airspace and taking over the airwaves!  OOPS!!! Can we say alien revalation unveiled???  Yeah, Baby!
   So, I won't spoil the movie (I never do) by giving you all the secrets held within the plot but I will tell you that what follows is a battle royal worthy of any great Superman comic.  These scenes were flawlessly executed and very exciting to watch.  In my mind they succeeded in bringing the comic to life.  If there was a weak spot in the movie it would only be that I think the character of Lois Lane could have been a more, in your face, aggressive character like many past Lois characterizations.  She was good but by adding more aggression she could have been great.
   So, definitely go see this one for yourself.  It is a fun ride and covers most questions that could possibly come up.  David Goyer's script covered the question of aliens meeting humans and the reactions that follow rather admirably.  I give this one a full 4 Screams on the "Creature Scale!"
   Have a Wonderful Day!!!
  the "Creature"