Christopher Reeve, the iconic Man of Steel, was more than just a superhero on the big screen. In the documentary Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, released in honor of the 20th anniversary of his death, his children and famous friends paint a picture of the real Chris – goofy, adventurous, and the master of embarrassing dad jokes.
His daughter, Alexandra Reeve Givens, reminisces about her father’s fabulous voices, a result of being a classically trained actor. His Fozzie Bear impression was legendary among the family. And who could forget his bedtime stories, complete with different voices for each character? Alexandra and her brothers, Matthew and Will, have their own fond memories of their father’s theatrics.
Matthew, now a producer and writer, recalls their father’s spontaneous dances in the aisles during musicals. He did this out of pure excitement and a love for the Buddy Holly era. It may have been embarrassing at the time, but these moments showcased Christopher Reeve’s infectious zest for life.
The documentary doesn’t sugarcoat Christopher Reeve’s life after the tragic accident that left him quadriplegic. It goes beyond the glossy surface to show his true struggles and triumphs. He founded a foundation, directed a movie, and tirelessly advocated for spinal injury research and support for those impacted by it. Christopher Reeve proved that real-life heroes exist, and that they come in many forms.
Matthew explains that the documentary was meant to be authentic and truthful. It delves into personal stories and emotions that the family had kept private. This genuine approach adds depth and substance to the film, making it more than just a puff piece.
Christopher Reeve, despite his virility and charm, had his flaws. He was sometimes selfish, driven, and wary of commitment. This was evident when he left his partner and their newborn to go skiing shortly after Matthew’s birth. However, his accident became a turning point in his life. It transformed him into a dedicated parent and partner, maturing him in ways he never expected.
The legacy left behind by Christopher Reeve is not just that of a superhero, but that of a man who faced adversity head-on and showed us the true meaning of resilience. The documentary Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story offers an intimate look into the life of a remarkable individual whose impact extended far beyond the silver screen.