The character of Superman has been played by multiple actors across generations, and the character gained cult status in 1978 when Christopher Reeve took on the mantle of Superman. However, British actor Henry Cavill was instrumental in rediscovering the superhero’s essence in Zack Synder’s 2013 film Man of Steel. The star then appeared prominently in DCU films like Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, and Justice League. While some of these films did not find favor among fans, Cavill confessed that it was Zack Snyder who truly understood the character of Superman.

Henry Cavill Puts Man of Steel Above Christopher Reeve’s Superman

Superman actor Henry Cavill has been widely regarded as one of the best to play the role of the DC superhero. The star praised Zack Snyder’s vision for the character while bravely comparing his film Man of Steel to that of his illustrious predecessor, Christopher Reeve. According to Cavill, while Reeve’s Superman symbolized a straightforward and optimistic world that was easier to accept, Zack Snyder’s version delved below the comfort zone to bring out the character’s deeper thoughts in a darker world.

“Snyder Cut Revealed The True Superman”, Says Henry Cavill

Henry Cavill’s Superman experienced many changes from Man of Steel to Justice League. While some of these changes were intentionally written into the character arc, a few other developments were a result of problems that occurred behind the scenes. The highly anticipated Justice League faced many obstacles with Joss Whedon taking over midway from Zack Snyder due to unavoidable personal reasons. The film, which was marred by problems on and off screen, failed at the box office, prompting Snyder to revisit and remodel his original vision with Zack Snyder’s Justice League.

This version went on to become a huge fan favorite. Henry Cavill, who reprised his role as Superman heaped praise on the film, the director, and the evolution of the character, stating, “In my opinion, this is the first time we see Superman in truth. We have seen the origin story of Superman. We have seen the downfall and doubt of Superman. And finally, with his rebirth, we see the true Superman. The Superman who is confident and sure, and full of hope and joy.”

Cavill added that this version of Superman that Zack Snyder created was also closest to how the character featured in the source material. Having said that, the star also expressed his desire to develop Superman even further by using comic books as a reference.