REVIEW: Superman Returns to Screen In A New, Creative Way in Superman & Lois
“It’s a bird, It’s a plane, It’s Superman” is a catchphrase that has been around for generations. From his first appearance in Action Comics #1 in 1938 to the many iterations of him that have appeared on screen, Superman has transcended generations and been a household name for years. Tonight, February 23, the CW will release its newest iteration, Superman & Lois, and, unlike previous versions, this version sees Superman taking a new role, fatherhood.
The focus on family is the main key to this series, unlike other shows in the DC Universe. The writers do a wonderful job of finding that perfect balance between the action that follows Superman day to day and the difficulties of raising high school children. Nothing ever feels forced and viewers are constantly reminded that even one of the most perfect couples in DC Comics’ history might not always know what they are doing.
Tyler Hoechlin reprises his role as the Man of Steel in this new creation. Once again, Hoechlin’s ability to perfectly balance Clark Kent’s awkward small-town nature with Superman’s bigger than life persona is always a joy to watch. Elizabeth Tulloch also reprises her role as spitfire reporter, Lois Lane. Unfortunately, Lane takes a backseat in the pilot, but Tulloch doesn’t let that stop her from bringing Lane’s best qualities to the screen. Hopefully, we get even more from her as the season progresses.
Jordan Elsass and Alexander Garfin take on the role of the couple’s twin teenage boys, Jonathan (Elsass) and Jordan (Garfin). Both stars are tasked with taking on a set of twins that could not be more different, but do share a relationship many will never experience in their life. That isn’t easy, especially when Elsass and Garfin are not twins themselves. But these two have that instant chemistry with one another that makes it easy to see past. Finally, Inde Navarrette plays the daughter of Sarah Cushing and she brings such a refreshing breath of fresh air to the show. She plays well against, Elsass and Garfin, which may leave fans wondering if she will ultimately end up with one of the brothers.
Superman & Lois is like a warm hug one uses to welcome a loved one home. The show knows it’s roots, knows it’s material, and pays respect to the creations that came before it in such a beautiful way that viewers can’t help, but be charmed by it. Some moments will even have them shouting at the screen in glee. Superman & Lois sheds a new light on the Man of Steel and explores a side of him, and Lois, we are not use to seeing on screen. And, though the series focuses more on the family side of things, it does not shy away from the Superman side. There is still a lot of Superman to keep even the diehard Superman fans entertained.