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Reign of the Supermen

Name: Reign of the Supermen
Director: Sam Liu, Jake Castorena
Released: 2019
Duration: 87 min

Representation Score

3.5/10

Limited

2019

PG-13

Director

Sam Liu, Jake Castorena

Runtime

87 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

Reign of the Supermen adheres closely to established comic book lore, emphasizing genre continuity over progressive narrative changes. The film relies on traditional archetypes that support existing power structures. One strength is the inclusion of Steel, who adds a layer of racial diversity. However, the lack of LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent narratives limits the film's inclusivity. Overall, the film follows a conventional approach to representation, focusing on reclaiming power through masculine archetypes rather than challenging systemic social structures.

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Category Breakdown

Does Reign of the Supermen have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film doesn't include any LGBTQ+ characters or explore non-cisgender identities. It focuses solely on the competition for a hero's role without addressing queer issues.

How does Reign of the Supermen portray gender?

Limited

The story centers on male superheroes and competitive masculinity. It lacks strong female roles and reinforces traditional gender roles.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Reign of the Supermen?

Good

John Henry Irons, known as Steel, offers meaningful representation as a Black man using technology. He challenges the typical image of a homogeneous hero class.

How does Reign of the Supermen represent religion and culture?

Fair

The film follows a standard Western superhero narrative. It emphasizes individual heroism and restoring order without critiquing Western institutions or religious structures.

Does Reign of the Supermen include disability representation?

Minimal

The Cyborg Superman is used as a narrative antagonist rather than a detailed exploration of disability. The cyborg theme is employed as a science fiction element rather than a depiction of lived experience.

Present on Screen

The inclusion of John Henry Irons adds racial diversity.
Steel disrupts the homogeneous image of heroes.

Limited or Absent

The film lacks strong female roles and challenges to gender hierarchies.
There is no LGBTQ+ representation or exploration of non-cisgender identities.
Disability is portrayed as a sci-fi cliché rather than a nuanced lived experience.

Official Synopsis

In the wake of The Death of Superman, the world is still mourning the loss of the Man of Steel following his fatal battle with the monster Doomsday. However, no sooner as his body been laid to rest than do four new bearers of the Superman shield come forward to take on the mantle. The Last Son of Krypton, Superboy, Steel, and the Cyborg Superman all attempt to fill the vacuum left by the world's greatest champion. Meanwhile, Superman's death has also signaled to the universe that Earth is vulnerable. Can these new Supermen and the rest of the heroes prove them wrong?

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