Disclaimer: Contains spoilers!
Plot Summary: As Superman's popularity wanes, a group of superhumans calling themselves "The Elite" challenge Superman's principles.
Review: I really love the approach to this film; it's like a clash in values and a critique of modern superheroes compared the golden age icons such as Superman. The main plot is that war is brewing around the world, and with tensions rising, the people are demanding more from Superman to stop it. Superman is reluctant to intervene because he believes humanity should be able to solve these problems on their own, and he shouldn't give favor to any one nation. At the same time, the film delves into the tired boy scout nature of Superman and almost ridicules his principles in fighting for justice. Furthermore, we see the exploration of Superman's accomplishments and whether or not he is actually making a difference; one villain keeps escaping from prison and killing many people before Superman can capture him and put him back in prison only for it to happen again. The public has grown weary of Superman when they see the alternative in the form of the Elite. This group doesn't wear traditional costumes as Superman, they are more aggressive, willing to kill criminals, and will do just about anything to stop villains. The public readily embraces what they perceive as actually making progress against injustice. Superman, on the other hand, at first trusts the Elite until he sees how easily they will kill someone in their way. He likens their tactics to the same as the villains and is worried how things will end, but unfortunately the public sees Superman's ideals as dated and the Elite as hip and better. When Superman attempts to confront the Elite this leads to a full on fight in which we see the Elite kill Superman. This part was especially powerful because you feel for Superman and you indentify with how hard he has fought for what he believes in. This then leads to the best part of the film as Superman comes back as he has unleashed his true power. This has been addressed from time to time in the lore as Superman is often said to be holding back his true power in fear of hurting those around him. Superman begins to kill the Elite and as the fight escalates into Metropolis, we even see Lois Lane die as Superman backs the last of the Elite into a corner. It is here we see the real Elite's personality as they are just as willing to kill innocent people as criminals. When Superman is about to kill the leader of the Elite, it is revealed all is not what it seems as Superman faked a lot of the events to show the public the Elite's way is not the right one. With the Elite defeated and everyone okay, the world has a better appreciation for how much Superman actually cares and how his principles help to protect all. This is more of a morality tale while making a statement about the changing attitudes of our time. This is an impressively powerful film, tackling a lot of tough issues, while still maintaining some tight action. There are some more aspects I wished they dealt with like the origins of the Elite, and I would prefer more ambiguity in the final statements of the film rather than saying Superman was right, but this is otherwise great. Definitely give this one a view if you love Superman or want to see a totally different take on your typical superhero film.
Notable Moment: When the Elite believe they have killed Superman and he comes back very pissed and maybe even evil.
Final Rating: 8/10
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