Superman remembered: Documentary honours Christopher Reeve’s legacy
He was an excellent "Superman," and in real life, a true superhero. Twenty years after Christopher Reeve’s death, an exceptional, heart-wrenching documentary about his life and the tragic accident is coming to cinemas.
A trailer for the documentary "Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story" has appeared online. The trailer showcases the journey of the actor who became famous for his role in "Superman" in 1978. Reeve is a true American pop culture icon. In 1995, during an equestrian competition, he had an accident that left him paralysed for the rest of his life. His story brings tears to the eyes.
Touching documentary about Christopher Reeve
After the tragic accident, Reeve wanted to give up. "I ruined my life and everybody else’s. I won’t be able to ski, sail, throw a ball to Will. Maybe we should let me go," he said.
The words of his wife, which were spoken still in the hospital, had a powerful meaning. Dana said to him briefly, "And then she said the words that saved my life: 'You’re still you. And I love you.'"
The accident at the equestrian competition dramatically changed Reeve’s life, forcing him to confront a new, complex reality. His fight and determination to turn personal tragedy into strength are manifested in his efforts for people with disabilities, his efforts to raise funds for spinal cord injury research, and his advocacy for stem cell research.
In the film, viewers get a chance to see intimate interviews with Reeve’s three children – Matthew, Alexandra, and Will – as well as with his late wife Dana, who lost her battle with lung cancer in 2006. The documentary also features memories from Reeve’s friends, such as Whoopi Goldberg, Susan Sarandon, Jeff Daniels, and Glenn Close.
"This year, in October, will be the 20th anniversary of dad's passing," recalled Matthew Reeve, who admitted that it’s the perfect time to tell his superhero’s story.
A true superhero
The documentary includes family video footage and sheds light on Reeve’s involvement in charity work – along with his wife, they established a foundation focused on helping people with spinal cord injuries. Already in the trailer, it is mentioned: "Thanks to him, people can walk!" His children continue the foundation’s work, inspired by their father, who believed that "a hero is an ordinary individual who finds the strength to persevere and endure in spite of overwhelming obstacles."
The film "Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story" will be released in select US cinemas on 21 September and will be shown again on 25 September – the actor’s birthday. This touching documentary, directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, is a tribute to Christopher Reeve’s indomitable spirit, drawing from the wealth of his life both before and after the tragic accident.
