Superman (1978)

Superman is one of those comic book adaptations that reminds you the genre has never been one simple thing. Directed by Richard Donner, it brings its own mix of spectacle, character drama, questionable choices and moments that make fans either cheer, groan, or quietly check whether the sequel did it better.

The strongest parts usually come when the film commits to its central idea instead of apologising for being based on comics. When the characters feel bold, strange or sincere, the material works. When it gets too tangled in studio notes, tonal whiplash or franchise homework, you can practically hear the spreadsheet breathing behind the camera.

Still, that is part of the fun. Comic book movies are messy little beasts, and Superman has enough personality, legacy or pure oddball energy to deserve a proper spot in the database. It may not be perfect, but perfection is overrated. Capes are already ridiculous. We signed the waiver years ago.