Superman Returns: The Complete Shooting Script by Michael Dougherty and Dan Harris
01/08/2006 . Source: Geoff Willmetts 
pub: Titan Books. 271 page illustrated softcover. Price: £ 9.99 (UK), $14.95 (US), $19395 (CAN). ISBN: 1-84576-332-7. Buy Superman Returns: The Complete Shooting Script in the USA - or Buy Superman Returns: The Complete Shooting Script in the UK  check out website: www.titanbooks.com and www.supermanreturns.com
Without even seeing the film yet, in the past month I've probably absorbed more about 'Superman Returns' than the punters who've visited the cinema. With the complete script book, I'm also seeing a lot more than finally made it onto the screen as the section where Superman is inspecting the remains of his home planet Krypton was never filmed.
If you want to read every last detail of the script, not to mention see the storyboards for three different set pieces, then you should be picking up this book just about now. It's a shame that the book does not contain a photo section of stills from the film but I guess that would add to the cost even if would make this popular icing on the cake. After all, this book isn't likely to be bought by the general public but the real fans.
I don't normally draw comparisons between books but after reading the DC comicbook adaptation - reviewed elsewhere this month on the website, it became obvious where there are some major differences. The scriptwriters really laid it on with a trowel that Jason is the result of Supes and Lois Lane getting it on. Director Bryan Singer insists that this film is sort of a sequel to the first 'Superman' film but that was only possible after the man of steel neutralised his super-powers in the second film. If Superman is supposed to typify American values, then I guess having a child out of wedlock is a good representation of current US population.
I digress. If you've seen the film then you'll know the plot. If you haven't then it would be unwise to spoil the surprises you might see if I tell you the plot here. I'll probably be doing a comparison when I see it on DVD as it is.
Although all the indications are given for page changes and colour codings are explained, in a black and white book you can't really see the difference. It's a shame more explanation for the novice isn't incorporated, especially explaining the asterisks down the right hand side of the page and how some pages only have a single paragraph on them. Then again, I imagined scenes which are listed as 'omitted' will leave some fans discussing for days what they represent.
If you're buying all things Superman this month, then this book should be on your shopping list. If you're learning the ropes of scriptwriting then having a copy in your hands will at least teach you the form. Enjoy.
GF Willmetts |
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