Common Sense Media Review
Witty, action-packed superadventure with big themes.
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Superman II
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 12 parent reviews
Based on 24 kid reviews
Kids say that this sequel is a significant improvement over the first film, featuring more action, humor, and emotional depth, while still being entertaining for families. However, it does contain increased violence, language, and sexual content, making it more suitable for older children, as some scenes may be intense for younger viewers.
- improved sequel
- more action
- family-friendly
- increased violence
- emotional depth
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
In SUPERMAN II, three treasonous villains from Krypton who have been serving a prison sentence are set free by a chance hydrogen bomb blast. Meanwhile, Lois Lane (Margot Kidder) realizes that her timid coworker Clark Kent (Christopher Reeve) is actually Superman. Superman takes her to his Fortress of Solitude retreat to celebrate (and consummate) their love. Per Kryptonian law, he gives up his superpowers when he consummates his relationship. Meanwhile, the Kryptonian supervillians take over a town and proclaim their dominion over Earth. Superman returns to the Fortress to restore his powers, and then battles the trio, who are now being advised by Lex Luthor (Gene Hackman) who has escaped his own prison sentence. After the trio smash most of Metropolis, they are outwitted by Superman, who chooses to retain his powers despite his love for Lois.
Is It Any Good?
Superman II is the most entertaining and exciting live-action Superman adventure. It delivers plenty of slam-bang action, a hearty dose of amusing sight gags, and a wonderfully endearing take on our hero's love life. Top-notch scripting and direction elevate this sequel above other depictions of the Man of Steel, with the exception of the later WB animated series.
The major failing of Superman was its emphasis on preliminaries -- an extended origin story, sketching of the central characters, and a delineation of our hero's superpowers. Superman II cuts to the chase by introducing the cast of supervillains and getting Lois and Superman together right away. The key elements distinguishing Superman II are its whimsical sense of humor and excellent pacing.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what they value most in life and what they would sacrifice for it. What would they do in Superman's shoes?
How is this movie different from the original? Which do you think is better?
Why do you think Superman has to sacrifice his powers to be with Lois?
Movie Details
- In theaters : January 1, 1981
- On DVD or streaming : May 1, 2001
- Cast : Christopher Reeve , Gene Hackman , Margot Kidder
- Directors : Richard Donner , Richard Lester
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Warner Bros.
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : Superheroes , Adventures
- Character Strengths : Courage
- Run time : 127 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : mature themes
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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