This movie is not like other Superman movies you have seen in the past. Previous installments of the story have always struck me as somewhat tongue-in-cheek. This new chapter has its lighter moments but by and large takes itself much more seriously. Superman is more introspective, struggling to reconcile himself and his purpose. He is not human, yet has lived among humans and learned to love them. Has the world moved on, leaving Superman behind? We see glimpses of his inner turmoil as the movie progresses. I have to wonder though, despite the more serious tone, why no one remarks upon the coincidence of Clark Kent and Superman returning at the same time.

Plenty of lavish special effects are on tap and they do not disappoint. We see Superman and his powers fully realized on screen, and the film is visually stunning at times. Superman Returns is being simultaneously released to normal theaters and IMAX®, with selected scenes in IMAX® 3D. I can only imagine what some of the visuals would look like in the larger screen format.

The cast members, including big-screen newcomer Brandon Routh as Clark Kent/Superman, do a good job with the material. I especially liked seeing Parker Posey (Kitty Kowalski) playing Lex Luthor’s girlfriend. I wish they had given her more to work with. And that is the main issue I have with the movie, the script itself. The pacing does drag at times. This is one summer blockbuster where the recipe perhaps should have been less story and more action. Weighing in at 154 minutes, one would think that opportunities to tighten up the film in editing should have been considered.

Most of the buzz from those that have seen early screenings of the film is focusing on the topic of its Christ-like parallels. They are there, and there is nothing subtle about them—such as this dramatic exposition by Superman’s father Jor-El: “Even though you've been raised as a human being you're not one of them. They can be a great people, Kal-El. They wish to be. They only lack the light to show the way. For this reason above all, their capacity for good, I have sent them you... my only son.” And dialogue from Superman himself, to Lois Lane: "You wrote that the world doesn't need a savior, but every day, I hear millions crying out for one." And images of Superman above the earth listening to all that goes on below. This new Superman has transcended heroism and is positioned as the savior of the human race. But is he their salvation? If so, it is a selective and fleeting form of salvation as they are only safe until the next villain or calamity threatens.

On the whole, the movie is entertaining and I don’t think anyone will be outright disappointed. This is a movie worth seeing on the big screen for its visual impact. Ultimately though, this is not the Savior you are looking for.

Superman Returns is rated PG-13 for some scenes of intense action violence. It is directed by Bryan Singer (The Usual Suspects, X-Men, X2: X-Men United).