Superman’s Best Movie Scene Is a Timeless Masterpiece—19 Years Later, It’s Even Better
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
As the iconic Man of Steel makes his highly anticipated return to the big screen this year with David Corenswet donning the cape in Superman: Legacy, fans of the superhero are reflecting on the greatest moments from his cinematic past. Among the numerous action-packed sequences Superman has graced us with, there is one standout scene that continues to resonate even 19 years later—Brandon Routh’s unforgettable plane rescue in Superman Returns.
A Timeless Scene of Heroism
Released in 2006, Superman Returns may not have been the film that fans had hoped for, but one sequence shines as an undeniable triumph. The movie had a lot to live up to, following the legacy of Christopher Reeve’s legendary portrayal of the character. While Superman Returns didn’t quite reach the same heights as Reeve’s films, Brandon Routh captured the essence of the hero perfectly. In the iconic plane rescue scene, Superman springs into action to prevent a runaway plane, boosted by a rocket, from crashing into a crowded baseball stadium. The tension, the stakes, and the heart-pounding action make it one of the most thrilling moments in the character’s cinematic history.
What sets this sequence apart is its pure focus on the heroic essence of Superman. Unlike other superhero movies that prioritize villain confrontations and world-ending stakes, this scene is about Superman doing what he does best—saving people. It’s not about a fight with a villain, but about a man using his incredible abilities to protect innocent lives. Superman is at his core—a protector. The CGI, coupled with the powerful score, amplifies the urgency and the raw emotion of the moment, making it feel timeless and as exciting now as it was nearly two decades ago.
Why the Plane Rescue is Superman’s Best Action Sequence
Over the years, Superman has appeared in many thrilling and action-packed sequences across various films. From the intense battles between Superman and Batman in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice to the explosive final fight between Superman and General Zod in Man of Steel, the character has seen his fair share of epic confrontations. However, when comparing these high-stakes battles to the plane rescue in Superman Returns, it becomes clear why this moment stands out.
Zack Snyder’s Man of Steel introduced an emotionally charged sequence where Superman must kill Zod to protect civilians. While this moment is pivotal and well-executed, it also diverges from the core principles of the character. Superman’s essence has always been that of a hero who refuses to kill, no matter the circumstance. The Superman Returns plane rescue captures that spirit perfectly. The sequence highlights Superman’s unwavering commitment to life, as he risks everything to save Lois Lane and the plane’s passengers. It’s action-packed and heroic, but it’s also a moment that stays true to who Superman is—an embodiment of hope, compassion, and selflessness.
Superman’s Legacy and Future: Can It Be Surpassed?
With Superman: Legacy on the horizon, there’s a renewed sense of excitement about the character’s future on screen. David Corenswet’s portrayal promises to bring Superman back to a more classic, heroic depiction, and James Gunn’s involvement guarantees that we’ll see a mix of thrilling action, emotional depth, and a touch of humor.
While the bar is set high, there’s hope that Superman: Legacy can offer a sequence that rivals or even surpasses the iconic plane rescue from Superman Returns. The cast, including villains like Lex Luthor and the Green Lantern Guy Gardner, alongside the confirmed inclusion of a kaiju and action-packed sequences, hints at an exciting future for the Man of Steel. Gunn’s ability to blend high stakes with emotional resonance in his other superhero projects gives us reason to believe that the upcoming film will offer fans a memorable new chapter for Superman.
Even if future Superman movies manage to deliver an even more thrilling action sequence, it’s safe to say that the Superman Returns plane rescue will always hold a special place in fans’ hearts. It represents the very best of Superman—the protector, the hero who is always willing to risk it all to save others. Nineteen years later, that sequence still holds up as one of the finest action scenes ever featured in a Superman movie, and it will continue to inspire audiences for generations to come.
As we look ahead to the new Superman films, there’s no doubt that the legacy of Superman Returns and the unforgettable plane rescue will live on, reminding us of the hero we’ve always admired and the timeless qualities that make Superman a true symbol of hope.