SUPERMANIA

Warner Books Presents...

2012-05-11T19:38:00.007+01:00

In continuation of this post detailing the Super-Marketing campaign mounted by Warner Brothers to cash-in on the release of Superman: The Movie in 1978 I'm proud to present some of its highlights adorning my collection decades later. From the top, artist Jim Dietz interpretations of key scenes collected in a glossy portfolio - even today this set of twelve paintings impresses making a mint set an expensive rarity. The Superman cut-out diorama set is a curiously complex paper model given its intended audience (even the instructions advise to take your time & dream) and although some of its whopping 80 pieces have dated poorly there is still the basis of an incredible kit should it be refined. The 1979 calendar is the only disappointment of the group as only the giant centrefold (Superman pointing to the sky) can compensate for 12 months worth of grainy images printed on poor quality paper. Tucked away in an a smart but unassuming PVC envelope, the Superman blueprint set is a great insight into the practical effects besides being a visual treat. Here the 15 plates fold out into superb renderings of everything from Luthor's Lair to the XK101 rocket complete with accompanying notes.
Besides David Michael Petrou's incredible paperback account of 'The Making Of Superman' the remainder of the literary line was dedicated to non-movie specific lowbrow fare such as the 'Official Superman quiz book' until DC Comics issued some unmissable contributions of their own. To be continued...

'Crafted From 100% Polyamid...'

2012-05-06T12:07:00.007+01:00

The Propstore Of London is currently offering a unique opportunity to own one of Christopher Reeve's 'flying' tunics from Superman III. Though Superman wardrobe rarely comes onto the market without the accompanying thud of an auctioneers hammer, the leotard pictured above will nonetheless set you back 10K plus. Like all genuine pieces of Movie history, however, this garment tells a story and creates as many mysteries as it solves. Indeed, this is the first instance of the fabric being publicly identified as 'Polyamid' which, though significant, may as well originate on the Planet Krypton for hope of finding more of its particular weave. Also note the curious lack of the red shorts (in most tunics the top & shorts were one piece), presumably to add layers in an effort to hide the flying harness and the position of the 'slits' themselves. This, along with the costumier/studio labelling throughout and even makeup residue lends great providence to this investment. Propstore has a sterling reputation among collectors and in a market infiltrated by copies, its good to know there are still genuine examples out there creating a stir among the fanbase and keeping the legacy alive...

'Arnie's Works' Updated...

2012-05-02T19:49:00.012+01:00

Though still branded a 'Personal Project' rather than a commercial enterprise at this point, the images charting progress on Master Arnie Kim's 1/4 scale Reeve Superman figure above do nothing if not whet the appetite. Having struck off the first test cast shown in the bottom three images, the incredible likeness is put to test in the top shot with an impressive photoshop merge of the sculpt and an original still of the man himself. You don't have to understand Korean to appreciate the many ongoing projects featured on Arnie's blog where full galleries of the sampling shown here can be viewed in all their splendor. One can only pray that as Hot Toys invests more licensing and dedication to producing quarter scale statues in the future they do us all a favor and negotiate another deal with Mr. Kim to release this work into a salivating collectors world...

One Classic FIlm...

2012-04-26T13:51:00.000+01:00

...Many formats. The above is just a sample of the huge output WB has released over the last three decades in a fine demonstration of the longevity of this timeless classic. From the top, Super8 reel, NTSC Laserdisc, Video cassette with feature in widescreen (I remember this being very exciting in 1993, look how far we've come!!) and the 2001 Special Edition DVD. One wonders what can we expect in the years to come beyond Blu-ray? Superman in 3D? time will tell but ultimately there is no substitute for reliving the experience on the silver screen - Take Flight...!

Happy Birthday...

2012-04-24T18:40:00.000+01:00

Please join me in congratulating fellow sitemaster and SuperFan Alexei Lambley-Steel on the one-year anniversary of his fantastic site christopherreeve.co.uk If you've yet to visit I urge you to do so as Alexei is forging quite the collection celebrating Chris' varied career. Pictured above is the newest of the masterworks of Sebastian Columbo commissioned for the site. Enjoy!

The Fall Guy...

2012-04-20T16:22:00.005+01:00

Anyone with an interest in the cinema of the last fifty years would no doubt be intrigued to discover what a significant, yet virtually anonymous role one Victor Armstrong has played in some of the most popular. From humble beginnings showing a natural talent for wrangling horses to doubling for most 'A' list action men in the '80's and beyond, stuntman extrordinaire Vic's legacy is ongoing and continues to dazzle audiences the world over. Casually written with no heirs or graces, Vic's memoir is an unpretentious portrait of the man, straight-talking with a sheer love for his craft. His insights are candid and some of the events (some tinged with tragedy) are never less than compelling. No surprise then, that Vic should be a notable part of the Superman Movie franchise and devotes a chapter to his experiences, from wires snapping on flying rigs to arguments with the star wanting to do the stunts himself...

Vic made a rare public appearance at this years Memorabilia show in Birmingham only a few weeks ago and it was my intention to attend and get my copy of his book signed - sadly I missed my opportunity to meet him so thank god for my good friend Greg who obtained his autograph for me in a great pic of Vic during filming of Superman: The Movie...

From the top, Vic's auto pic, the book, and screengrabs taken from the Superman DVD documentaries showing Vic in action...

A Toupee That Flies...

2012-04-17T20:01:00.000+01:00

My sincere thanks go to fellow SuperFan and editor of A Tribute To Christopher Reeve Alexei Lambley-Steel for allowing me the chance to own the little slice of cinematic history pictured above. Culled from a package originally delivered to Hair Supervisor Joan White at Dovemead Productions on 23/06/82 containing three handmade hairpieces, pictured above is one attributed to Clark Kent stunt double Richard Hammet for Superman III. This handmade, human hair, lacefronted hairpiece has a suprisingly reddish-brown tint and although somewhat thinned, has survived well for a 30+ year old wig. Due to its Tribble-like status when it arrived with me I sought to restore it to its original glory without compromising the authenticity of the piece. To that end, a comb, a little water spray and a lot of patience paid dividends as the famous mild-mannered reporters locks fell neatly into place, a fantastic addition to my collection...

A Most Significant Collection...?

2012-04-15T21:38:00.011+01:00

Auction House

Profiles in History

Chosen to sell the fabled

Dreier Hollywood/Pop Culture Memorabilia

Collection this summer

Profiles in History have been selected to handle the sale of the celebrated Dreier Collection. Due to the size, scope and significance of the Dreier Collection, it will take nearly two years and several auctions to offer all of the material. The first installment of the Dreier Collection will be sold in July 2012.

Some of the highlights of this historic collection include:

The most significant Christopher Reeve “Superman” collection in private hands

Michael Jackson’s signature leather costume from his “Bad” tour

The most important Willy Wonka collection extant

Will Ferrell's "Ron Burgundy" costume from Anchorman & others from Blades of Glory & Talladega Nights

Signature costumes and props from such legendary films and TV shows as Star Trek, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, X-Men, Batman and Austin Powers.

According to Joe Maddalena, CEO and President of Profiles in History, the importance of the Dreier Collection cannot be overstated. “This is a monumental offering, and it is a collection that commands every adjective you can think of – impeccable, amazing, phenomenal, diverse, top quality. Even the most seasoned collector will be blown away by the collection’s depth, breadth and level of importance”.

“Our family has been honored to house these treasures over the last 15 years, and now it is time to share them with the hobby,” said father and son collectors, Chad and Doug Dreier. “Joe Maddalena and the crew at Profiles In History were clearly the right choice to help us with the collection”.

As vendors for the archive of producer Ilya Salkind in 2007 - The team at Profiles In History have considerable experience with original and genuine artifacts from the Superman series. Though the Dreier collection is a revelation to me (despite its legendary status attributed here) I eagerly anticipate the level of significance of the Superman collection boasted. If you are thinking of investing in what will no doubt be some expensive lots - may I firstly recommend some research on Jason DeBord's incomparable Original Prop Blog followed by a revision on my exhaustive article on Superman costumes on capedwonder.com. Stay tuned for further updates as information becomes available...

Standen The Stand-In...

2012-04-09T19:51:00.011+01:00

My sincere thanks to SuperFans Sebastian Columbo, Alexei Lambley-Steel and Seby Ravi for their assistance in solving the identity of the man standing with Christopher Reeve in the top image. Amazingly, some 25 years later, actor/entertainer Donald Standen is still making public appearances as The Man Of Steel having been elected as Reeve's personal choice of on-set double (as highlighted in the production used call sheet from the Metro Club scene, second pic) for Superman IV: The Quest For Peace. A familiar face on British TV thanks to his appearances in numerous commercials, (including the Superman themed one for Specsavers posted above) Donald is the face of Action Hero Events where he can be booked to appear in character for themed evenings, predominantly as his other persona, James Bond. SUPERMANIA wishes Don all the best in his endeavors and is pleased to see him keeping the spirit alive...

Criminal Mastermind Awaits Recovery...

2012-04-08T11:15:00.006+01:00

More first-published images from the portfolio of 'PartkStreetParrot' featuring the M25 location for the final scenes of Superman IV: The Quest For Peace'. From the top - Christopher Reeve makes off with his chair & script, The crew setting up shot with Lex Luthor's 'Stunt' and 'Picture' car, Reeve conferring with Director Sidney J. Furie and actor Jon Cryer and repairs to the apparently overheating 'Hero' car during shooting...

RMFX...

2012-03-30T20:38:00.001+01:00

Marvel, if you will, at the supreme talents of one Richard Martin, UK-based Special Effects Make-Up artist, Sculptor, painter and indeed, SuperFan. Pictured above are two of his sole creations, 1:1 silicone figures of Christopher Reeve as Superman and a bust of Terrance Stamp as General Zod. Those lucky enough to attend the Memorabilia 2011 show at the NEC Birmingham will surely testify to the frightening realism of these pieces in the flesh among other exhibits in the first ever prop party sanctioned by the RPF.

Chances are you've seen some of Rich's work already on screen and not even known it. With a portfolio containing significant contributions to everything from the last series of Dr. Who to Lady Ga-Ga Music videos, go to his site for an impressive showcase of his work.

With the credentials shown above I was compelled to contact Rich myself to assist with my own Superman 1:1 project last year and to my surprise he accepted - taking on the difficult task of inserting prosthetic eyes into my bust, mounting it onto the mannequin and finally giving it a realistic paintjob of incredible quality. The result will be shown in a future post but for right now I want to thank Rich for being such a consummate professional and a real gent - he literally came to my rescue...

From the top, pics and video taken from the RPF booth by me (please excuse my Zod impression, I got excited:) of Rich Martin's Superman projects (both now in the hands of private collectors)

A Real Doll...

2012-03-26T19:26:00.002+01:00

Enjoy this unreleased publicity portrait of Christopher Reeve for Italian Vogue from 1989 - Or instead marvel at the fact it is actually a shot of a modified Hot Toys Superman figure by Duabelas Custom Works complete with rooted hair and casual attire. A true work of art...

Suddenly, 80 Years Later...

2012-03-23T20:54:00.006Z

Browsing through my collection for more recommended reading of comics tailored to fans of the Superman Movies I came across this forgotten gem from 1985(!). Presented in standard direct sales format, this unusual collection of tributes to the 'Fifty Who Made DC great' was released in celebration of the publishers upcoming 50th anniversary. Introduced by then-president Jenette Kahn, this refreshingly ad-free special devotes whole pages to everything from the Fleischer Studios to Burt Ward. Among the many Superman contributions (including features on Kenner Toys and Peanut Butter) are the above scans acknowledging the Man Of Steel's impact on the silver screen. I greatly anticipate the digital revised edition in 2035...

C To The K To The \S/...

2012-03-19T20:32:00.008Z

Enjoy these newest dynamic illustrations by SuperArtist Sebastian Columbo from his series premiering on christopherreeve.co.uk, a homage to the DC art of Jose Garcia-Lopez from the mid '80's. Note the typically awesome attention to detail with the actual costume colours replicated perfectly and the pose reminiscent of the alleyway change scene in Superman II...

Salkind, Hamilton & Puzo...

2012-03-13T19:57:00.008Z

More fantastic retro-style publicity reposted on SUPERMANIA courtesy of artist Jayce76 from his Superman Movie collection on deviantArt. Jayce clever reworkings of vintage Variety ads amongst others here gives these pieces a look of complete authenticity. The Salkind's famously mounted quite the campaign from 1976 onward to capture the imagination of the movie-going public and would continue throughout production and even beyond. Some of the best examples of these are peppered throughout this blog in the Superman: The Movie section where the fascinating evolution of the project culminates in the film still regarded as the arguably the best comic-book adaptation of all time...

Memoirs Of A Temporary Custodian...

2012-03-09T12:22:00.008Z

In continuation of posts of recommended reading for fans of the Superman Movies comes a Trade paperback from 2000 with nothing less than an endorsement from the man himself.Superman In The Seventies is a nostalgic look back at some of the defining stories of the decade with sharp reprints of such classics as 'Superman Breaks Loose' (where the threat of Kryptonite is eradicated by an explosion and The Man Of Steel eats some to prove it) and the controversial Lois Lane story 'I Am Curious (Black)!' where with Superman's help the girl reporter transforms into an African-American for an article.
And what better way to represent the times than the man who would define him in that era and beyond. Christopher Reeve's introduction (shown above) shares thoughts on the genesis and and endurance of the character with a typically modest acknowledgement of his contribution to the legend. However keen Reeve was to stress his temporary status of custody, his permanence nonetheless remains in our hearts & minds...
From the top, cover, introduction and feature from DC Comics 'Superman In The Seventies'

More Orbital Memories...

2012-03-05T20:08:00.006Z

More priceless never-before-seen images from the portfolio of 'ParkStreetParrot' and his close encounter with the filming of Superman IV on the London Orbital. From the top - Christopher Reeve confers with Gene Hackman & Jon Cryer, a wide shot of the crew and ramp rig, (to simulate the car being hoisted from beneath) Billboard set-dressing and the two cars used for the sequence (note the 'stunt' car held aloft by wires). To be continued!

The SHM Pt.2...

2012-02-29T20:21:00.008Z

Presenting the concluding part of the London Editions Super Heroes Monthly 'Superman II Special Movie Issue' - The article concluding nicely with a signed, dedicated picture from leading lady Margot Kidder as Lois lane. The issue was also unique for providing an unspoiled version of the cover painting (by Alan Craddock) as the back cover. Still occasionally available on popular auction sites, this mag is a worthy addition to any Super-collection...

Criminal Mastermind Apprehended On The M25...

2012-02-25T13:27:00.007Z

Another SUPERMANIA exclusive, courtesy of photographer ' ParkStreetParrot' who tells his remarkable story about discovering the cast & crew of Superman IV: The Quest For Peace on location towards the end of the shoot...

"The photos were taken on 10 October 1986, a few weeks before the M25 opened (the official opening ceremony occurred about a mile from this location between Junction 21 and 22, by Margaret Thatcher)

Its a long time ago, but I must have had a day off, I received local intelligence that this was happening (I had a relative that was involved in the M25 project ).

There was remarkably little security by today's standards. I arrived with my trusty Canon A1 and took a couple of rolls of film. Most of these pictures have never been seen before. I may have processed the films myself, I did that with black and white films. The quality is not so good and may have been down to poor processing!

I learned a couple of lessons at this event . I wanted to supply some pictures to a local newspaper, so I called them - but they asked me where it was happening and I told them so they sent their own guy! The second lesson was that you have to hang about, even if its getting tedious and nothing is happening - I didn't do this and went home after about 3 hours. Later in the day, maybe because the light was better later, Christopher Reeve (or the stuntman) was filmed underneath the car, pretending to fly away with it - these were the pictures that appeared in the local paper a few days later - D'oh!!

Since that time, this part of the M25 has become one of the busiest sections (if you imagine a clock face its at the 12 o' clock position), and the motorway has just been widened to accommodate another lane each side..."

The above is a selection of never-before-seen prints reproduced here with the kind permission of the photographer with more to follow in future posts...!

The Super Heroes Monthly...

2012-02-20T19:37:00.006Z

from Wikia.com;
The Super Heroes Monthly was a black & white monthly anthology published from September 1980 (Vol 1 number 1) to April 1982 (Vol 2 number 7) by London Editions Magazines, running 19 issues in total. It reprinted stories from a number of American DC Comics titles, with most issues including at least one Superman and/or Batman story. There were also Super Heroes Annuals published from 1982-1984. The 1983 Annual features a two page British originated text story, Wonder Woman in 'The Eye of the Eagle', by Kelvin Gosnell. There was also a Special published as an offshoot of the series, the card covered, full colour 'Superman Spectacular #1'.

Distinguished by their awesome (for the time) painted covers, this UK series was let down by its dated content. Shown above is the fantastic cover and article from the 'Superman II Special Movie Issue' with part one of a six-page feature on the upcoming Movie - Part two to follow..!

Asbury's IV Storyboards Cont'd...

2012-02-17T19:34:00.008Z

More pages of Martin Asbury sketched action from the global clash between Superman and Nuclearman II. Of note are omitted scenes where Superman freezes his nemesis hands with Super-Breath in defence against being clawed. The theatrical cut picks up as Nuclearman retaliates by freezing Superman in a block of ice...

Recortable Animado...

2012-02-11T15:03:00.010Z

While not exactly Hot Toys quality, please nonetheless enjoy this vintage do-it-yourself paper marionette from Super POP magazine. Though the text is in Spanish I had a bash at it myself (bottom pic) but at over 15" tall decided to dispense with the primitive pull-string mechanism to animate the arms & legs...

Original clippings from my collection.

All 'New' Picture Card Series Updated...

2012-02-07T10:31:00.006Z

SUPERMANIA is pleased to report that progress continues on the Superman IV trading card project now that designs have been refined by SuperFan Alexei Lambley-Steel to better match cards from the era (In the late '80's card numbers were relegated to the rear and titles were changed to uppercase!) while the descriptive card backs telling the story (written by myself) are currently at the halfway point.
As we are presenting the set based on an idealized version of the the film in its complete, uncut form, the story is being adapted using both the DC Comics Special and the novelisation by B.B Hiller. This presents the opportunity to use images from cut scenes while filling in the gaping plot holes from the theatrical version in an attempt to make it a coherent whole. While my archive of quality stills is used in its entirety, Alex and I agreed the only way to convey the story properly was to use screengrabs, the first excellent results of which we present above. Stay tuned for further updates of this exciting project..!

The Gospel According To Byrne...

2012-02-02T15:12:00.010Z

Despite his own legendary status, British artist/writer John Byrne was all-too aware of the responsibility of revamping Superman's origin story to the point where he likened the assignment to being handed the bible and told to 'fix this'.
In 1986, however, fixing was exactly what it needed. By the late eighties comic audiences had grown more sophisticated and though he'd entertained for almost fifty years, Superman was starting to show his age. Once again it seems ironic that the Man of Tomorrow's four-color regeneration would borrow so heavily from its cinematic adaptation first screened almost a decade before. Indeed, ill-advised appearance from Batman notwithstanding, structure-wise the six-part Man Of Steel series could easily pass for another draft of Superman: The Movie. Far from denying the film's influence, however, Byrne openly embraces it by rendering his hero in the perfect likeness of the film's star. Among these beautifully crafted pages there are re-tellings of both Krypton and Smallville segments at once touching and economical by ousting any mention of SuperBoy and allowing the Kents to survive as a continuing influence. These, among other narrative touches (like the feisty character of Lois Lane and the introduction of Lex Luthor as a corporate vulture) in turn clearly had an impact on the producers of Lois & Clark where they were retained for television. The Movie sequels are acknowledged too with Byrne showing us in Part 5 what Superman III should have been in considerable style.
Ultimately though, Man Of Steel remains a solid milestone in the continuing journey of Superman's fight to stay contemporary. So tight was Byrne's re-imagining it survived as canon right up until last year, but that's another story...

From the top, select examples of John Byrne's Man of Steel mini-series paying clear tributes to the the Donner films, second in a series of recommended reading trade paperbacks for fans of the Movies. Comments welcome!

Far East Finds...

2012-01-30T17:44:00.007Z

Hot from SuperFan Alex Serpa comes these pristine vintage Japanese VHS video tapes in original cases. Though in NTSC format Alex reliably informs me "The picture quality on the tapes is amazing ... for VHS that is. Surpassing any of the British/U.S. VHS. The print is so clear and the colors vibrant". Many thanks to Alex for sharing this find and be sure to check out his incredible quartet of websites devoted to the Superman Movie series...
(Links located in sidebar).