Today across the nation the newest Superman film titled “Superman Returns” is being released in theatres. I used to enjoy the Superman movies of the late 70’s and early 80’s with Christopher Reeve playing Superman. From the trailers that I have seen, the new flick looks very edgy and entertaining.
So what does Superman have to do with single parenting? Interestingly, Hollywood in all of its wisdom has decided to cast Lois Lane (played by Kate Bosworth)-Superman’s former love interest as a single mother.
I have not seen the movie yet, but the premise is that Superman has left earth to find his place in the universe, and returns five years later. In the meantime, Lois Lane has a child and is engaged to the newspaper (The Daily Planet) editor’s nephew. As a side note-really Lois couldn’t you wait five years for your superhero to return? What were you thinking?
Is it possible that this movie and the portrayal of a professional single mother could make a positive impact on the way single mothers are perceived in this country and possibly throughout the world? I am not sure how Lois’ character will be depicted, but based on the previous movies; she was intelligent, courageous and willing to do just about anything to get the story. I wonder if she will parent with the same strength and vigor. In this movie Lois has won a Pulitzer Prize which leads me to believe that she will still be portrayed as a woman who knows what she wants and goes after it. Will the director show the reality of the balancing act that all of us need to do on a daily basis or will the fact that she has a child not play into the storyline?
If you have an opportunity to see Superman Returns, please let us know what you think, especially about Lois Lane’s character and whether or not her single parenthood is based in reality on screen.