The new documentary “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui follows the incredible life story of actor Christopher Reeve. The film chronicles Reeve’s rise to fame portraying Superman in the late 1970s and 1980s, as well as the tragic horse riding accident in 1995 that left him paralyzed from the neck down. Despite his devastating injury, Reeve dedicated the rest of his life to advocating for spinal cord injury research and finding a cure. The documentary features candid interviews with Reeve’s children, Matthew, Alexandra, and Will, as well as footage of the actor with his late wife, Dana, who passed away in 2006.
In the trailer for the documentary, emotional moments are shared, including a powerful scene where Reeve recalls how Dana’s love and support helped him regain his will to live after his accident. Reeve reflects on feeling like he had ruined his life and everyone else’s, but Dana’s words of love and reassurance that he was still himself helped him find the strength to continue. The trailer also includes memories from Reeve’s children about their father’s athleticism before the accident, showcasing footage of him engaging in various physical activities like tennis, swimming, and horseback riding.
Reeve’s children reminisce about the active and competitive nature of their father, describing how they enjoyed participating in sports and other physical activities with him. They recall the last time they saw their father before the accident, with Matthew sharing a heartbreaking moment of saying goodbye and receiving a wave from Reeve, which turned out to be the last time he saw his father on his feet. The documentary also features interviews with some of Reeve’s Hollywood friends, such as Susan Sarandon, Whoopi Goldberg, Jeff Daniels, and Glenn Close, who reflect on the special bond Reeve shared with the late actor Robin Williams.
“Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” is set to air in select theaters on September 21 and again on September 25 in honor of Reeve’s birthday. The film pays tribute to Reeve’s remarkable life and legacy, highlighting his resilience in the face of adversity and his dedication to raising awareness about spinal cord injuries. Through interviews with Reeve’s family, friends, and colleagues, the documentary provides an intimate look at the impact he had on not only the entertainment industry but also on the disability rights movement and medical research. Reeve’s story serves as an inspiration to viewers, showcasing the power of love, determination, and advocacy in the face of challenges.
