Superman: Unbound is the latest DC animated direct to video film to arrive, and in some ways it is the most surprising. It is rated “PG-13” and certainly earns it. You might be tempted to pick it up and let the kids watch it, but there might need to be some parental supervision and intervention.
A little familiarity with the Superman mythos is in order, as we get Supergirl in Metropolis and Clark Kent/Superman and Lois Lane are at a “certain stage” in their relationship. Based on a graphic novel we get a sort of retelling origin of Braniac and the Kryptonian city of Kandor. It will have elements that will seem familiar to older comic fans, but also with some notable differences.
Matt Bomer (“White Collar”) provides the voice of Superman and does a decent job. I wouldn’t mind hearing him more in the role. “Castle” actresses Stana Katic and Molly Quinn are Lois Land and Supergirl, respectively. Again, solid turns here.
Lois needs rescuing (again) and Supergirl is trying to fit in and handle her powers. A robotic probe shows up which not only proves to be a bit more of a match than Superman had figured, when he does defeat it and takes it to the Fortress Of Solitude, the sight of it scares Supergirl. Why? Turns out this is all tied to how she was initially sent to Earth in the first place.
For a Superman story there is some pretty graphic violence. Bloodshed and killing on the screen. Lois gives Braniac a rude gesture. These aren’t bad things, necessarily, but does point to the fact that this isn’t a Superman film for the whole family.
I actually didn’t expect the blood. Sure it’s only animated blood, but still, there was no warning. The “PG-13” rating offered up “sequences of violence and action, and a rude gesture” which isn’t very clear. Allow me to be clear – this is a VIOLENT film with BLOODSHED.
The Blu-ray comes with a few special features, including an audio commentary that makes it the clear choice over the DVD if you have the option.
At 75 minutes (including credits) this isn’t exactly an epic length motion picture, but at least it almost feels like it could have been a real movie. With a slightly bigger budget for animation and a little longer running time you might have seen this in theaters. That would have been nice, actually. There really is a lot to like in Superman: Unbound. Just make sure to watch it first before younger viewers to see if you think it is appropriate for them or not. Personally, I think it’s rather borderline for my (very soon to be) 10 year old.