I believe a man can fly… but why?

29 Dec

What is it that draws fans to Superman? The character, and several related TV shows/movies, are what I would consider “comfort food”. When I was sick not too long ago, and stuck at home- able to watch anything – I put on Smallville and got lost in the healing powers of Clark Kent. Though I am still irritated that I spent 10- years waiting for a man to change clothes…

But why? What keeps the character alive for so many people? I mean, I can’t speak for others, but for me… it’s hope. Superman represents ideals of who we should aspire to be. And though not a perfect men- because he is a man, and (hu)mans are flawed- Superman aspires to achieve moral perfection. And thus to be an example to man of what they should attempt to be.

Well- that’s my theory anyways.

I was raised on Sups. One of the first movies I recall seeing was Superman 3. Mostly because the scene where the sister becomes a machine terrified me. And I can recall watching Superboy on TV back in the 80s. My older brother was into comic books growing up and he got Superman series, amongst others. I don’t think I read a lot of them though.

The 90s brought Lois & Clark, which gave more of both the relationship of man & woman but also hero & reporter. Which was a nice stepping stone to the early 2000’s and Smallville– which in my opinion, is the epitome of best representation of the characters and Clark’s moral development. It showed how he struggled with right & wrong. Struggled with not being able to save everyone. Struggled with carrying guilt for his mistakes- including that though he made certain decisions, the reality is that there were others whose decisions played as much of a role in situations as his did.

The current series, Superman & Lois is a lovely continuation- what happened after I do.

I suppose I should discuss the films some more. 2006 gave Brandon Routh a chance at the role and while I love his performance and the life he gave to the character, it was not a good film. But… 2013 put Henry Cavill in the tights. I would love to see him have the chance to play Superman but the moment his character killed Zod… he was not someone to be looked up to. And we have to look up to Superman- he needs to be our hero. I can’t look up to someone who is no better than my clients.

Don’t even get me started on the plans for a new film from DC and James Gunn. I adore James Gunn– but I do not need another turn of Clark figuring his shit out and finding balance as a hero. I mean… it’s been done. Really well. Multiple times. During my lifetime. How about following up with Angry Sups as portrayed by Routh in “Crisis on Infinite Earths” in the Arrowverse. Angry Sups has lost a lot and he has a story to tell- how does he continue to be a hero when everything that helped him remain a man is gone? That’s a story I’d like to see.

But back to my topic- what is it that draws an audience to this character?

I mentioned that the moral example and aspirational good example are one thing that entices myself- someone to look up to. There’s also the fact that no matter what media type is being reviewed… the physical representation of Clark Kent/.Superman is always damn good looking. A little eye candy never hurt, right? Even when portrayed in role of Bizarro I have yet to see an unattractive representation (did you see Tyler Hoechlin in season 2 of Superman & Lois as Bizarro? The eyebrows!!!)

I think it is more than being inspired to be a moral/better person. But more likely the inspiration to seek other options. Superman can’t kill (again, this is why I hate Man of Steel)- he has to find another way. (Yes, I know Doomsday is frequently killed in all the different media but since he always comes back to life eventually- it doesn’t count). Not that most people are often in life and death situations (hopefully) but still… seeking other options for problems should be the goal of growth.

A greater piece as well is that Clark Kent/ Superman has had to learn the importance of connection. His relationships have grounded him, creating a sense of “home” that helped him develop those morals and values but also provides a reason for fighting. The man is invulnerable and possibly immortal (or at least ages at such a slow rate in comparison to humans). That destroys a lot of connections. But Clark actively maintains those connections, with Lois, his mother, friends, and as Sups with every person he saves, taking the time to make sure they are ok. He has to. And real normal people need to find connection, too.

So have I found the answer to my question? No. But I think I’m on the right path. What do you think draws people to Superman?