Affleck super in Hollywoodland

September 11, 2006 —

Superman is not just for kids anymore. Forget about X-ray vision, speeding bullets, and looking up to the sky for what may or may not be a bird or plane. The superhero famous for his cape and his 'S' has made his way to the big screen for an adults-only feature film entitled Hollywoodland. Of course, this is not a movie about the man of steel. Rather, this is the story of the man in tights, George Reeves, who portrayed Superman in the 1950s television series "Adventures of Superman."

After a successful run on the popular TV show, Reeves was found dead in his home in June of 1959. His death was ruled a suicide by investigators, and friends present in the home at the time of his death confirmed this story. But controversy arose when some refused to believe that Reeves would kill himself.

Hollywoodland tells about the investigation of a possible murder case surrounding the death of Reeves. And despite having possibly the worst film title of the year, Hollywoodland does a fine job of telling this story.

Reeves is portrayed by Ben Affleck, who turns in a performance that could win him over with critics for the first time since his breakthrough film Good Will Hunting. It is so refreshing to see Ben Affleck playing someone besides Ben Affleck in a movie. And while his character at times seems a little fake (mostly when he tries to come across as charming), overall the portrayal feels genuine.

Meanwhile, Adrien Brody plays Louis Simo, a detective determined to convince everyone, notably the press, that Reeves was murdered. But Simo has problems of his own, including a failed marriage and a shaky relationship with his young son.

The movie intertwines these two stories, blending them seamlessly so there is no confusion as to what is happening. And while the movie offers several explanations for why Reeves was found dead, the movie, true to real life, is inconclusive with its results.

So even though there really is no ending, the journey to the closing credits is one worth taking. Brody turns out a fantastic performance, digging for clues and causing a stir until his character realizes his life is not all that different from that of Reeves; Affleck exceeds expectations as he becomes not only Superman, but also the man behind the 'S.'

Affleck may not be able to deflect bullets like Superman, but neither could Reeves. The actor was merely that - an actor, and a human being. Affleck (and director Allen Coulter) deserves credit for realizing this, and showing the human side of Reeves and not just the superhero known to his fans.