Name: Superman (1978)
Director: Richard Donner
Released: 1978
Cast: Christopher Reeve, Gene Hackman, Jackie Cooper, Margot Kidder, Marlon Brando

Overview

Superman (1978) Storyline

Superman 1978

Superman (1978) Details Director, release, studio & more

Director: Richard Donner
Release: 15/12/1978
Runtime: 1 hr 38 min
Studio: Array
Content rating: 12
Universe: DC Comics Extended Universe
Last Updated: 16 Jun 2025

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CMDB Review

8/10

Our editorial score

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Who's In It

Cast of Superman (1978)

Christopher Reeve

Gene Hackman Lex Luthor

Jackie Cooper

Margot Kidder Lois Lane

Marlon Brando

Ned Beatty

Terence Stamp General Zod

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CMDB Review

Superman (1978) Review 8/10

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.

Did You Know?

Superman was directed by Richard Donner.
The film/series was released on 15 December 1978.
It was produced or distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures.
Key cast members include Christopher Reeve, Marlon Brando, Gene Hackman.
It forms part of the wider history of comic book adaptations on screen.
Like many comic adaptations, it balances fan expectations with mainstream audience appeal.
The project helped shape how later comic book stories were presented on film or television.
Its legacy is often discussed through a mix of nostalgia, franchise context and fan debate.
The title remains a useful snapshot of where the genre was at the time.
Most importantly, it proves comic book movies were never just capes and punching. Sometimes they were capes, punching and deeply questionable boardroom confidence.