Christopher Reeve starred in the 1978 Superman film, which would be known as one of the most iconic portrayals of the Kryptonian hero. The actor was only 24 when he landed the dual role of Clark Kent and Superman, changing the superhero movie genre forever.
Despite the limits of technology during Reeve’s time, the movie became a smash hit, raising the young actor to ultimate stardom. He completed the sequel in 1980, securing global fame and bringing to life the symbol of hope from a comic-strip hero.
Christopher Reeve Openly Discussed The Highs And The Lows Of Playing Superman
In a rare television interview with John Hanrahan, the famed Superman actor Christopher Reeve got candid and reflected on his portrayal of the iconic protagonist. The host asked the actor if he took his role seriously, to which he responded:
“No, you can’t really, because it’s important not to let Superman enter the real world. I take him dead seriously when I play him. I mean, I play it as though it’s absolutely real, and I think that the qualities that Superman exhibits as a man, the kind of decency and compassion, integrity, and sense of humor, are absolutely real. The silly costume and the larger-than-life actions, and the feats of strength, those are all meant to be amusing and heartwarming and friendly, but certainly not great art or poetry, or anything of the kind. It’s just good commercial filmmaking.”
Reeve pointed out the good qualities that Superman embodies and what he stands for, but he also noted how several details about the character that fans adore were all “silly” things that should not be taken seriously.
He was also asked which role he enjoyed playing more, and without hesitation, he chose Clark Kent. Later on, he admitted to loving Superman’s heroic acts:
“Clark Kent is more fun, but in this film, it was nice. I enjoyed them equally in this film, because of the kind of going back and forth between the two identities. I like the whole aspect of Superman trying to release, trying to give himself away. I thought that was a nice angle.”
The actor refused to explain how the production team enabled him to fly, which he noted that “it would ruin your enjoyment of the film.” Certainly, there were strings attached that viewers could not see, but he refused to divulge which part of his body hurt as it would reveal the magic trick.
Christopher Reeve On Fame And Privacy After Starring In Superman
Amid the fame and international popularity of Superman, Christopher Reeve talked about how he coped with being followed by the media and the changes in his life before and after he landed the role:
“I don’t know what it means to be an international star. Also, it’s not like a before-and-after picture. One day you’re ugly with pimples, and the next day, you’re beautiful. It’s always a bumpy ride. It’s always a kind of a roller coaster effect.”
Reeve mentioned that the illustriousness of his Superman portrayal made him work double time to protect his privacy. The tabloids were quite nosy about the actor’s personal activities and home life, but he was nice enough to answer their mails out of courtesy. He was willing to do interviews as long as it involved professional work.
Superman is available on Max.
Source: John Hanrahan on YouTube
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