Over the decades, many actors have embodied the role of Superman. However, only two actors stand out the most – Henry Cavill and Christopher Reeve. Cavill was a part of the Snyderverse, debuting in 2013’s ‘Man of Steel’, returned for 2016’s ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’, and then again made a comeback for 2017’s ‘Justice League’. Sadly, Cavill’s Superman will no longer connect with a large audience.
Although, Christopher Reeve is the favorite version of the ‘Man of Steel’. The actor played Superman in Richard Donner’s iconic 1978 movie and reprised the role in 1980’s ‘Superman 2’, 1983’s ‘Superman 3’, and 1987’s ‘Superman 4: The Quest for Peace’. But who is the better and more popular among them?
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Henry Cavill’s Superman Is A Fighter
It might be an understatement but Henry Cavill’s Superman has some of the best action sequences compared to Christopher Reeve’s portrayal of The Man of Steel. Cavill’s Superman knocked out Barry Allen, who was running at a supersonic speed in ‘Justice League’. Also, Superman put up a brave fight against Steppenwolf and fought one on one against Doomsday. Additionally, he also snapped General Zod’s neck to prevent him from destroying the world.
As Henry Cavill’s physique looked tough, on the other hand, Christopher Reeve’s Superman looked like a fan in a costume. Also, Reeve’s Superman never fought any monsters in the four films, he picked on the villains of his size. Also, Reeve’s Superman was easily accepted by the public, no questions asked. Meanwhile, Cavill portrays a Superman that has to fight for acceptance.
Henry Cavill Vs Christopher Reeve: Humor
A superhero with good humor always goes a long way for the audience. It is a well-known fact that Christopher Reeve was Lord of Charms. In ‘Superman III’, Reeve’s character made some hilarious decisions like blowing the Olympic Torch and straightening the Leaning Tower Of Pisa. Also, Reeve’s version of Superman felt straight out of DC comic books, especially with the iconic light-blue costume.
As humorous as Christopher Reeve’s Superman is, Henry Cavill’s character is a little too serious and quiet. Cavill might be perfect to play an anti-hero version of Superman from another Earth. When compared to Reeve’s Kal-El, Cavill’s Superman is less chirpy and a little too dark, just like the DCEU’s reputation.
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Who Is The Flawed Superhero?
Christopher Reeve’s character is from the ’90s with humor and charm. However, Henry Cavill’s Superman is flawed and partly relatable to normal humans despite being a superhero. While Reeve’s Clark Kent never showed any sign of weakness, Cavill’s version is not morally inclined and showed a significant amount of imperfection.
He fights Doomsday and in the process destroys buildings without even consideration of the lives of civilians who might get hurt in the process. Also at any given chance, he is more than ready to fight Batman. Flawed Superheroes really help to connect better with the fanatics and the readers.
Henry Cavill Vs Christopher Reeve: The Conclusion.
The modern superhero has an added advantage over Christopher Reeve’s character proving that heroes don’t have to walk alone. Cavill’s Superman despite being unbeatable, is helped by other superheroes while fighting off villains like Steppenwolf. Reeve’s character has been a lone wolf, but fairly he did not face scary villains like Cavill’s Superman did.
Additionally, Reeve has four solo movies featuring The Man of Steel, which for Henry Cavill was a missed opportunity. However one seems to be the modern-day Superman, while the other reminds one of Superman from the olden days. Clearly, the fans cannot choose between the two as both actors have absolutely nailed the role of the Kryptonian hero.
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