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S3E25 Superman: Superman Returns episode artwork

Jul 11, 2025 1 hr 23 min

S3E25 Superman: Superman Returns

from Cinema on Tap Hosted by cinemaontap

Our month long look at Superman on screen continues. After the failure of Superman IV: Quest for Peace, Warner Brothers worked with half of Hollywood trying to reboot the franchise throughout the 90s and early 00s. Finally, they turned to X-Men director Bryan Singer, resulting in 2006’s Superman Returns. Superman Returns introduced the world to Brandon Routh, another newcomer taking on the role of Clark Kent. Pitched as an “homage sequel” to Superman and Superman II, the film begins with Superman returning to Earth after a 5-year long search for any remnant of Krypton. Unfortunately for him, Lex Luthor is cooking up a new evil plan. Even worse? Lois Lane is engaged to someone else! Singer’s film was both criticized and praised for an approach that gave greater focus to the romantic relationship between Superman & Lois as opposed to frequent action sequences. Our hosts break down whether or not this approach works, discuss Routh’s performance, and consider this film’s place in the superhero canon. Plus, our new social media manager Chelsie Padilla joins at the end of the show to share her thoughts on her favorite Superman film. Plus, our quick thoughts on F1, Elio, and Karate Kid: Legends! Who’s your favorite Superman actor? Let us know at [email protected]!

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S3E25 Superman: Superman Returns

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This episode is 1 hour and 23 minutes long.

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This episode was published on July 11, 2025.

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