Superman Returns (2006)

Superman Returns brought us the, well, the return of Superman to the silver screen for the first time in just about 20 years. Granted, after Superman III and Superman IV, we were all looking for a break (hint: they sucked). But with the resurgence of 'men in tights' movies, it was a very welcome addition.
This version of the Superman epic has the Man of Steel returning to Earth after an extended absence mourning over the remains of Krypton and trying to pick up the pieces of his disjointed life. In the biggest blow of all, Lois Lane has moved on (and has a kid), resentful of Superman's sudden departure. His return makes a huge splash world-wide as he reasserts himself as Earth's primary disaster prevention program. Meanwhile, he also tries to figure out his place in Lois's life, even to the point of kind of worming his way in ways you wouldn't expect out of the big blue Boy Scout.
I think Brandon Routh acquits himself well as Superman, though is perhaps a bit too... mopey. The villain in the piece, Lex Luthor, is played very well by Kevin Spacey as a grouchy genius, constantly looking down on his underlings.
The movie is paced out well and takes the time to highlight the awesome respect and love Superman receives from the people who look up to him. We also get to see a certain amount of vulnerability as Superman needs the help of people around him. Director Bryan Singer, for the most part, proves he's got a good head for superhero pics.
Grade: B+