The documentary “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” chronicles the life of the acclaimed Juilliard-trained actor, who rose to fame in the 1970s and 1980s as Superman. The film delves into Reeve’s remarkable journey, which took a tragic turn in 1995 when an accident left him paralyzed from the neck down. Featuring never-before-seen footage, the documentary highlights his early years, his close friendship with Juilliard roommate Robin Williams, and his evolution into a leading advocate for disability rights and medical research.
Reeve, who passed away in 2004 at the age of 52, is portrayed not only as a superstar but also as a dedicated father to his three children: Matthew Reeve and Alexandra Reeve Givens from a previous relationship, and Will Reeve, his son with wife Dana Reeve. Dana made significant sacrifices in her career as a singer and actress to care for Christopher during his illness. Tragically, she passed away from cancer in 2006, just 18 months after him, leaving behind their son, who was only 13 at the time.
The film paints a poignant picture of compounded tragedy balanced with hope. The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation has invested $140 million in research for a cure for spinal cord paralysis, underscoring their determination to improve the lives of those affected by such injuries. As the documentary revisits Reeve’s darkest moments, including financial struggles and the challenges of caregiving, it also emphasizes the resilience he embodied.
The filmmakers, Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, noted that the timing of the documentary is significant, as Reeve’s children have reached a stage in their lives where they feel comfortable sharing their father’s story. Will Reeve, 32, who works as a correspondent for ABC News and bears a striking resemblance to his father, expressed hopes that their home videos and archival material would provide deeper meaning to the narrative, illustrating that life can still be fulfilling despite severe disabilities.
Ettedgui explained their approach to the film: “It was really important to show how someone who you might think of as being somehow perfect — the ideal hero — how they experience the same insecurities and family issues that the rest of us might.”
Key Insights from the Film
Christopher Reeve’s Complicated Relationship with His Father
Christopher Reeve was born into a privileged background in New York. After his parents divorced, he and his younger brother lived with their mother, Barbara Lamb, a journalist, in Princeton, N.J. His father, F. D. Reeve, a charismatic and accomplished scholar, was also domineering. The film reveals Reeve’s feelings of inadequacy stemming from this relationship, with Christopher stating, “I could never do anything to impress him,” and adding that he struggled to be himself in his father’s presence.
The Unbreakable Bond with Robin Williams
A significant highlight of Reeve’s life was his friendship with Robin Williams, whom he considered a brother. Williams was one of the first to visit Reeve in the hospital after his accident, bringing humor into a difficult situation by visiting in character as a Russian proctologist. The bond between the two was profound, with Glenn Close noting in the film that she believed Williams would still be alive if Reeve were around.
Financial Challenges Despite Fame
Contrary to what many might expect from a star of Reeve’s caliber, the documentary reveals that financial concerns plagued the Reeve family. At the time of his accident, Reeve was appearing in television movies to make ends meet, and his extensive medical care cost approximately $400,000 annually. Despite their Hollywood status, the Reeves faced significant financial strain, a reality that Dana navigated while advocating for better healthcare legislation.
The Impact of Reeve’s Oscars Speech
Reeve’s emotional appearance at the 1996 Oscars marked a turning point in public perceptions of disability. After receiving a standing ovation from a tearful audience, he delivered a powerful speech highlighting social causes. The film emphasizes the logistical challenges he faced in preparing for this moment, including the risks to his health. Will Reeve reflects on this moment as a personal triumph for his father, showcasing his determination to remain active in the world despite his condition.
A Lasting Legacy
Will Reeve, who was just a toddler when his father became paralyzed, views the documentary as a nostalgic gift that allows him to connect with memories of his parents. He acknowledges the complex relationship he had with his father, recognizing the emotional support he received despite their limited time together. Will, along with his siblings, continues to honor their parents’ legacy through the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, which helps inspire others through their story of resilience and hope.
The film “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” not only serves as a tribute to a beloved actor but also highlights the indomitable spirit of a man who turned personal tragedy into advocacy, leaving a profound impact on disability rights and medical research.
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