Reign of the Supermen (2019) Review: A Superpowered Sequel That Delivers
Reign of the Supermen is the 2019 animated superhero film that serves as a direct sequel to The Death of Superman (2018). Based on the iconic 1992-1993 DC Comics storyline, this film explores the chaotic aftermath of Superman’s death and the emergence of four new super-powered individuals who each claim to be the Man of Steel’s successor. Directed by Sam Liu, the movie is a thrilling blend of action, intrigue, and emotional depth that continues to resonate with fans of the DC Universe.
Plot Summary: The Battle for Superman’s Legacy
Following Superman’s (voiced by Jerry O’Connell) heroic sacrifice in The Death of Superman, Metropolis is left without its greatest protector. In the wake of his death, four new heroes emerge, each with their own claim to Superman’s legacy: Superboy (Cameron Monaghan), a youthful clone with Superman’s DNA; Steel (Cress Williams), a man who dons a metal suit to continue Superman’s fight for justice; Cyborg Superman (Patrick Fabian), a cybernetic being who believes he is the resurrected Superman; and the mysterious Eradicator (Charles Halford), who is fiercely dedicated to preserving Superman’s ideals at any cost.
As these new Supermen fight to prove themselves, the world grapples with their intentions, questioning whether any of them can truly replace the original. Meanwhile, a dark conspiracy unfolds, threatening not just the legacy of Superman but the fate of the entire world.
Characterization and Voice Acting: A Stellar Cast
The voice cast of Reign of the Supermen delivers strong performances that bring these iconic characters to life. Jerry O’Connell reprises his role as Superman, capturing both the gravitas and warmth of the character, even in his limited screen time. Rebecca Romijn returns as Lois Lane, providing a grounded and emotionally resonant performance as she navigates life without Superman while uncovering the truth behind the new Supermen.
The newcomers to the cast also shine. Cameron Monaghan’s portrayal of Superboy is brash and full of youthful energy, capturing the character’s rebellious spirit and desire to prove himself. Cress Williams as Steel brings a sense of honor and determination to the role, embodying the idea of a hero without superpowers who rises to the occasion. Patrick Fabian’s Cyborg Superman is both chilling and tragic, reflecting the character’s complex identity crisis. Charles Halford’s Eradicator is cold and relentless, driven by a singular purpose that makes him both a protector and a potential threat.
Direction and Animation: Action-Packed and Visually Striking
Sam Liu’s direction ensures that Reign of the Supermen is packed with dynamic action sequences and moments of genuine tension. The animation, produced by Warner Bros. Animation, is crisp and fluid, capturing the epic scale of the battles between the Supermen and the forces of evil. The fight scenes are well-choreographed, making full use of the characters’ unique abilities and powers.
The film’s visual style stays true to the comic book source material, with vibrant colors and detailed character designs that bring the world of Metropolis to life. The use of shadows and lighting adds a layer of intensity to the film, particularly during the darker, more dramatic moments.
Themes and Storytelling: Exploring Legacy and Identity
At its core, Reign of the Supermen is a story about legacy and identity. Each of the new Supermen represents a different aspect of Superman’s character, from his sense of justice to his physical power. The film explores what it means to live up to an ideal and whether anyone can truly replace a legend like Superman.
The movie also delves into themes of grief and hope, particularly through the character of Lois Lane, who struggles to move forward after Superman’s death. Her journey to uncover the truth about the new Supermen serves as the emotional backbone of the story, adding depth to the film’s high-octane action.
Where to Watch Reign of the Supermen Online
For those looking to watch Reign of the Supermen online, several streaming options are available, especially in the United States. Here are the best platforms where you can stream, rent, or purchase this animated superhero film:
Streaming Services
- HBO Max: Reign of the Supermen is available to stream on HBO Max. This platform is the go-to destination for DC animated movies, making it an ideal choice for fans of the genre.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is also included in Amazon Prime Video’s library, available to stream for subscribers. It’s a convenient option for those who already have an Amazon Prime membership.
- DC Universe Infinite: Although primarily a digital comics service, DC Universe Infinite occasionally offers animated films like Reign of the Supermen as part of its content library. This is a niche option but worth considering for die-hard DC fans.
Rental/Purchase Streaming Services
- Apple iTunes: Reign of the Supermen can be rented or purchased on Apple iTunes, allowing viewers to watch the film at their convenience. The platform offers both HD and 4K versions for high-quality viewing.
- Google Play Movies: Google Play Movies offers the film for rent or purchase, providing flexibility for viewers who prefer to own their favorite movies digitally.
- Vudu: Vudu is another excellent platform to rent or purchase Reign of the Supermen. Known for its high-definition streaming and wide selection, Vudu caters to those looking for a top-tier viewing experience.
- YouTube Movies: YouTube Movies provides an easy and accessible way to rent or buy Reign of the Supermen. It’s a popular choice for those who want to watch directly through the YouTube platform.
Final Thoughts: A Worthy Follow-Up to a Classic Storyline
Reign of the Supermen successfully continues the story that began with The Death of Superman, offering a gripping narrative that pays homage to the original comic book storyline while adding its own unique twists. The film’s blend of action, emotion, and character development makes it a standout entry in the DC Universe Animated Original Movies series.
Whether you’re a long-time DC fan or new to the animated films, Reign of the Supermen is a must-watch. Its exploration of what it means to be a hero, coupled with its thrilling action sequences and strong voice performances, ensures that it remains a memorable and impactful addition to the Superman mythos. With multiple streaming options available, it’s easy to dive into this epic story of legacy and heroism.
