“Superman III” (1983) Movie Review: A Quirky and Divisive Superhero Comedy
Introduction
Directed by Richard Lester, “Superman III” (1983) is the third installment in the original Superman film series. Starring Christopher Reeve as the iconic superhero, this film takes a more comedic turn compared to its predecessors, incorporating a unique blend of humor and action. In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, performances, and its reception, and we’ll also provide information on where you can stream or rent “Superman III” in the United States.
Plot Summary
“Superman III” follows Clark Kent (Christopher Reeve) as he returns to his hometown of Smallville for a high school reunion. Meanwhile, computer genius Gus Gorman (Richard Pryor) discovers his extraordinary talent for programming and is recruited by the villainous tycoon Ross Webster (Robert Vaughn). Webster plans to use Gus’s skills to control the world’s coffee supply and subsequently moves on to more nefarious schemes.
As Superman, Clark faces new challenges when exposed to a synthetic form of kryptonite created by Gus. This altered kryptonite causes Superman to split into two personas: a good Clark Kent and an evil Superman. The internal battle between these two halves becomes a central conflict in the film, culminating in a memorable junkyard showdown.
Performance and Direction
Christopher Reeve once again delivers a strong performance, embodying both the heroic and darker sides of Superman with conviction. His ability to portray the moral struggle within the character adds depth to an otherwise light-hearted narrative.
Richard Pryor’s role as Gus Gorman brings a comedic element to the film, although opinions on his performance are mixed. Some viewers appreciate his humor and charm, while others feel it detracts from the traditional superhero narrative. Robert Vaughn as Ross Webster is a competent villain, though his character lacks the depth and menace of previous antagonists in the series.
Director Richard Lester’s approach to “Superman III” leans heavily on comedy, a departure from the more serious tone of the first two films. This shift results in a film that is entertaining yet uneven, appealing to some fans while alienating others.
Themes and Analysis
“Superman III” explores themes of duality and the internal struggle between good and evil. The portrayal of Superman’s darker side provides an interesting character study, emphasizing that even the most virtuous heroes have flaws and vulnerabilities.
The film also comments on the increasing influence of technology and corporate greed, represented by Gus Gorman’s hacking abilities and Ross Webster’s machinations. These themes remain relevant today, highlighting the ethical implications of technological advancements.
Where to Watch “Superman III”
For those interested in revisiting or discovering “Superman III,” the film is available for streaming on various platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- iTunes: Available for rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rental or purchase.
- HBO Max: Available for streaming with a subscription.
Conclusion
“Superman III” is a quirky and divisive entry in the Superman film series. With its blend of comedy and action, it offers a unique take on the superhero genre. While not as critically acclaimed as its predecessors, the film has its charm and provides an entertaining experience for fans of the Man of Steel. Whether you’re drawn to the humorous antics of Richard Pryor or the moral complexities faced by Superman, “Superman III” is worth a watch.
