The winds of change are sweeping through DC Studios. With co-CEOs James Gunn and Peter Safran at the helm, the DC Universe (DCU) is undergoing a monumental transformation. The arrival of SUPERMAN (2025) next summer marks the beginning of a new era, starring David Corenswet as the iconic Kryptonian.
But while fans are counting down the days to see Gunn’s vision take flight, another Superman-related project is captivating hearts in a different way.
Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, a touching new documentary, will premiere on HBO on December 7 at 8 p.m. ET, with streaming available on Max. Directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, this film offers an intimate exploration of the life of Christopher Reeve, the actor who made Superman soar into cinematic history. From his rise to fame to his life-altering accident and his groundbreaking activism, the documentary paints a vivid picture of a man who embodied heroism both on and off the screen.
Christopher Reeve became a household name in 1978 with the release of Richard Donner’s Superman. His portrayal of Clark Kent, complete with earnest charm and steel-eyed resolve, set a benchmark for superhero films that continues to resonate. He reprised the role in three sequels—Superman II (1980), Superman III (1983), and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)—cementing his place in cinematic history.
But Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story goes beyond the cape. Warner Bros. describes it as “a vivid cinematic telling of Reeve’s remarkable story,” showcasing his incredible journey from aspiring actor to international icon.
The film includes never-before-seen home movies, an extensive archive of personal materials, and interviews with Reeve’s children and Hollywood colleagues. These heartfelt moments offer viewers a closer look at the man behind the superhero.
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One of the most striking moments in the documentary trailer features Reeve himself reflecting on the concept of heroism. “What is a hero?” he asks. “My answer was that a hero is someone who commits a courageous action without considering the consequences. Now, my definition is completely different. I think a hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles.”
In 1995, Reeve’s life changed forever when a horse-riding accident left him paralyzed from the neck down. But true to his words, he found the strength to persevere. He became a tireless advocate for spinal cord research and disability rights, using his platform to inspire change and give hope to others. His activism was just as groundbreaking as his onscreen performances, redefining what it means to be a hero.
Watch the trailer for Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story from Warner Bros. Pictures:
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Produced by Passion Pictures (Searching for Sugar Man, The Territory) and Misfits Entertainment (McQueen, Rising Phoenix), the documentary doesn’t shy away from the challenges Reeve faced. It’s an honest, moving account of a man who never stopped fighting, even in the face of unimaginable adversity.
As the DCU prepares for a fresh start with James Gunn’s SUPERMAN, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story serves as a poignant reminder of the legacy that came before. Reeve’s influence on the character and the superhero genre at large remains unparalleled. This documentary is a tribute not just to his talent, but to his enduring spirit.
Don’t miss this heartfelt tribute to one of cinema’s greatest icons. Will you be watching? Share your thoughts and memories of Christopher Reeve in the comments below!
