Superman: Man of Tomorrowoffers a new origin story with a distinctly different animated style. The characters are defined in bold outlines. The action takes place primarily in a futuristic Metropolis with a retro throwback to the Kent’s Smallville farm. Clark Kent doesn’t have a clue to his actual heritage. Jonathan Kent is alive and well. The film explores Clark’s struggle fitting into human society as a near omnipotent extraterrestrial. It works on an emotional level, but gets melodramatic in a weak climax.Superman: Man of Tomorrowhas fan appeal. The problem is that it lacks the punch of recent DC titles.
Clark Kent(Darren Criss) is an eager intern at the bustling Daily Planet newspaper. He fetches coffee while doubling as the city’s costumed savior. Donning a bomber jacket and flight goggles to mask his heroics. Clark wants to use his incredible powers for good, but is fearful to be discovered as an alien. His adopted father (Neil Flynn) has continuously warned him about humanity’s darkest instincts. Mankind hates, fears, and persecutes outsiders. Martha Kent (Bellamy Young) does not share her husband’s opinion. She believes Clark is destined for greatness.
Lex Luthor’s (Zachary Quinto) launch of a rocket at S.T.A.R. Labs turns into a disaster. Theindustrialist megalomaniac is publicly taken down by an intrepid reporter, Lois Lane (Alexandra Daddario). Clark is then forced to redirect the rocket into space when it veers off course. He learns a valuable lesson about the source of his strength. But alerts the intergalactic bounty hunter, Lobo (Ryan Hurst), to his presence. A Kryptonian fetches a high price.Loboand Clark’s battle over Metropolis has a devastating result. A monstrous, energy draining parasite (Brett Dalton) is born from the melee.
Clark Kent is essentially a millennial trying to find purpose. He’s awkward, unsure of himself, searching for a place in an unforgiving world. But he has a noble and caring disposition. His human parents gave him the moral guidance and strength of character to succeed. Kal-El was born on Krypton, but was raised by Jonathan and Martha Kent. He reflects their Smallville values. They are the rock that built his foundation of truth, justice, and decency.Superman: Man of Tomorrowgives the Kents their due.
Superman: Man of Tomorrowdoesn’t work as an action film. But successfully depicts Clark Kent’s journey to becoming theMan of Steel.Supermandiehards will appreciate the time spent on his actual upbringing. Others may feel differently about the animation, I was definitely not a fan.Superman: Man of Tomorrowis a production of Warner Bros. Animation. It is available now for digital download with a DVD/Blu-ray release on September 8th from Warner Bros. Home Entertainment.
