Superman: Red Son (2020)

“I am no hero. I am merely a servant of the state who seeks, as you do, to better the lives of our citizens.” – Superman

Number of Times Seen – 1 (1 Mar 2020)

Brief Synopsis – A version of the Superman origin had his rocket landed in Russia instead of Kansas.

My Take on it – I have always been a fan of superhero stories especially from the DC universe.

What I love even more are the new and exciting ways that writers have come up with alternative timelines for characters that we all know and love.

This film is a perfect example of that.

The idea to see what would have happened if Superman had landed on Russian soil instead of in Kansas is such a fascinating concept.

It is able to delve into the question of nature vs. nurture and try and give us some insight into that concept especially given the fact that many of Superman’s decisions are based on his Soviet upbringing.

Love the way that this film takes many of the characters that we already are familiar with from the DC Universe and integrates them all into the story in very conceivable positions that all fit within what we know about their personalities.

There are a few minor plot holes in this story yet they still are able to keep things quite intriguing and entertaining as they take things into some very unexpected directions and are able to constantly surprise with the path that the story takes.

The voice cast led by Jason Isaacs and Diedrich Bader is also great and allows these characters to really expand under this kind of story line due to the scope of the how they present things.

Having this tsory take place during the 50’s and 60’s during the height of the Cold War is quite poignant because it allows for the story to take on a whole new perspective of that time and the historical figures of the day who must adapt in a world filled with super humans.

Bottom Line – Such a great premise that shows a fascinating alternate universe for the characters that we love and know. The way that they integrate many of the characters from the DC world into this story is done quite well and allows us to get a clear idea of where they would stand had the story been told from this kind of perspective. This film is also able to give us much to ponder about the idea of nature vs nurture as we get to see the various choices made by Superman based on his Soviet upbringing. The film has a few plot holes but that doesn’t take away from this being so enjoyable to watch unfold due to it’s unpredictability. The voice cast is chosen really well and both Isaacs and Bader do wonders with the scope of their characters. The choice to have this story take place during the height of the Cold War during the 50’s and 60’s was great because it allows for the us to get a new perspective on the time and the world leaders who must act differently due to the presence of these super beings. Recommended!

MovieRob’s Favorite Trivia – Stalin is Russian for “steel man”, or more appropriately “Man of Steel”, one of Superman’s nicknames. (From IMDB)

Rating – Globe Worthy (8/10)