The cape, the chaos, and the cocaine budget — this is how Superman actually flew.
A 5-part documentary of the history of Superman in the movies. • Origin - Superman in the media and the challenges the Salkinds faced • Vision - Creating the right script, Choosing the right director and casting the right actors • Ascent - The production and launch of a new kind of fantasy film • Crisis - Complications and conflicts between the creative forces behind Superman II • Redemption - Criticisms and burnout of Superman III and Superman IV: The Quest for Peace
Direction
Richard Donner's firing mid-Superman II — the documentary doesn't flinch.
Production
The Salkinds' wild European financing schemes deserve their own movie.
Writing
Tom Mankiewicz's candid stories about rewriting everything, constantly.
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Marlon Brando sued Warner Bros. for $50 million over Superman profits — and won a settlement that included a percentage of gross from future Superman films, including 2006's Superman Returns.
The documentary reveals that Richard Donner completed roughly 75% of Superman II before being fired; his 2006 'Richard Donner Cut' finally let audiences see his vision, making this doc essential context for that release.
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