Man of Steel: A Promising Start with Controversial Choices
2013’s “Man of Steel” introduced Henry Cavill’s Superman, marking the dawn of the DCEU. While it had the potential to soar high, the film’s storyline and certain key decisions divided audiences and critics alike. One of the film’s most debated moments has now been given a new perspective, thanks to insights from storyboard artist Jay Oliva.
Jay Oliva’s recent tweet illuminated a significant detail about one scene that sparked considerable debate among fans. “[There were] no Metropolis citizens present during the scene where Superman dodges a tanker truck,” he explained. This information drastically shifts our perception of the scene, where Superman’s seeming lack of concern about the resulting explosion made many viewers question his heroic character.
A Closer Look at the Controversial Ending
Despite this clarification, “Man of Steel” still has a contentious ending. While the tanker truck scene might have been devoid of civilian casualties, the city-wide battle between Superman and Zod left a trail of destruction in its wake. Other movies in the DCEU further highlighted the high casualties from this catastrophic showdown.
The essential criticism lies in Superman’s apparent indifference. Fans expected to see a Superman, symbolic of hope and righteousness, doing everything within his power to safeguard lives and minimize destruction. A glimpse of this quintessential Superman was seen in the animated series, My Adventures with Superman. This portrayal showcased a Superman acutely aware of the repercussions of his battles, often rushing to undo the damage caused.
I came up with that scene and had no bystanders anywhere shown and used an empty parking lot for said destruction. If you want to believe that there’s people in there then that’s on you but not what’s in the film or what was intended. 🤷♂️
— Jay Oliva (@jayoliva1) September 30, 2023
The Most Divisive Moment: Zod’s Death
Amidst the rubble of Metropolis, another polarizing event stands out: Superman taking General Zod’s life. Across various adaptations, Superman is known for his staunch ‘no-kill’ policy, making this particular scene jarring for many fans. An alternative could have seen Superman sending Zod to the Phantom Zone, a fate he has imposed on foes in other narratives. Such a decision could have significantly softened the criticism surrounding the film’s climax.
In Retrospect
“Man of Steel” continues to be a topic of debate nearly a decade after its release. While new insights, like Oliva’s revelation, might bring some peace to fans, the film’s choices remain etched in the DCEU’s legacy. It serves as a testament to the power of cinema, where every decision can invoke a myriad of emotions and discussions among its audience.
