Gwenb233

When people say this is the best Superman film since the 80's they aren't joking, or nostalgia baiting. They aren't talking about new CGI, or some special interpretation of the story. It is to its core a Superman film again. It's corny, it's heroic, it's sappy, it's got the sense of justice and fighting with the underdog, the Americana and grandeur, the comic relief. The plot hits every point of what made Superman so great. There's 2000's era of trying to bend the rules of the universe, and give it some grander artistic meaning, is finally behind us. Metropolis isn't afraid to exist as it is, Superman doesn't shy away from the core values that define him. Instead of trying to deeply analyze and change the world, it simply is, and provides every bit of setting context and world building that's needed to fully enjoy the movie. The primary conflict being split between the interpersonal conflicts of lex Luther and Superman, and the world politics it is creating/affecting was a brilliant move. It feels like every decision made throughout the film had gravity and weight to it, we see huge sweeping effects from individual actions that give every minute some sort of purpose. The payoff is worth it. I don't review movies often because very few blow me away anymore, I've not been that awestruck leaving the theater since the premiere of Oppenheimer. A true masterpiece of the format, a true Superman movie of the modern times. Not due to cliche pop culture references that will inevitably date the movie, but due to being itself, and not shying away from the 'trying too hard' that's ruined so many movies. Fantastic, 10/10.

The visual storytelling through allegories and themes throughout this episode make it one of my favorite animated episodes of any animated TV show. The episode follows Catra's mental break from her previous character, and is the summary episode to 4 seasons of character development for her. She's captured in an alien setting, with the weight of her actions crashing down. Seeking solace in the only familiarity she has, with a striking character contrast between the two characters. The animation blows me away every time, with beautiful use of contrast and space. I get full body chills at multiple points throughout the episode. On my most recent rewatch it stood out as the single episode that had aged the best, and still leaves a remarkable impression on every watch.