Superman: The Movie

With a new state-of-the-art digital transfer from restored elements and a remastered Dolby Digital 5.1 soundtrack, Warner's Director's Cut of 1978's Superman: The Movie is an eye-popping and couch-rattling SFX treat. Christopher Reeve masterfully treads the line between comic camp and caped crusading, with the strong-willed Margot Kidder as the perfect romantic foil. Best of all is the comic triumvirate of Gene Hackman, Ned Beatty and Valerie Perrine, who, though they don't truly shine as a team until the sequels, keep the "aw shucks!" factor of the film's cornball center nicely in check. Warner's special edition includes a commentary by director Richard Donner, deleted scenes, screen tests and 'audio outtakes'. Big-budget entertainment as only Hollywood can serve up, and well recommended. [Note: Warner is simultaneously releasing Superman II, Superman III and Superman IV.] (S. C. Sickles)