The compelling life of Christopher Reeve, celebrated for his iconic role as Superman, is the focus of a new documentary, “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story.” Directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, this film delves into Reeve’s journey from Hollywood fame in the late 1970s and 1980s to his tragic paralysis following a 1995 horse riding accident.
Reeve, who passed away in October 2004 at the age of 52, dedicated his post-accident years to advocating for disability rights and seeking a cure for spinal cord injuries. The documentary, which DC Studios premiered on August 26, includes poignant interviews with Reeve’s children—Matthew, Alexandra, and Will—as well as intimate footage of Reeve with his late wife, Dana. Dana Reeve, who succumbed to lung cancer in 2006, is remembered for her unwavering support during Christopher’s most challenging times.
A particularly moving segment of the trailer highlights a crucial moment when Reeve was grappling with the emotional toll of his paralysis. Reeve recounts his despair, contemplating whether to give up on life, believing his condition had irrevocably changed him. In his moment of deepest vulnerability, Dana’s words offered a lifeline: “You’re still you. And I love you.” These seven words, as Reeve reflects, were instrumental in reigniting his will to live.
The trailer also provides a nostalgic look at Reeve’s athletic prowess before the accident, featuring clips of him engaging in various sports—tennis, swimming, and horse riding. Reeve’s children reminisce about their father’s active lifestyle, noting his competitive spirit and refusal to slow down. Matthew recalls their final goodbye before the accident, poignantly describing it as the last time he saw his father standing.
The documentary further explores Reeve’s enduring relationships with Hollywood peers, including Susan Sarandon, Whoopi Goldberg, Jeff Daniels, and Glenn Close, while also touching on his special friendship with the late Robin Williams.
“Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” will be shown in select theaters on September 21 and again on September 25, in celebration of Reeve’s birthday, offering audiences a heartfelt tribute to a remarkable life.