Superman: The Kryptonite Cut is nothing short of a miraculous reimagining, masterfully blending Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980) into a single, coherent narrative that spans an impressive 5 hours and 20 minutes. This fan-made epic seamlessly integrates over an hour of deleted scenes into the first film, creating a 3-hour and 3-minute version that adds depth and richness to the already beloved story.
For years, Superman superfans have been locked in a passionate debate over the definitive version of Superman II: the theatrical cut or the Donner cut. While some believe the Donner cut captures the true essence of the story, others find it lacking. Superman: The Kryptonite Cut strikes a perfect balance, offering a hybrid of the two that feels like the ultimate version fans have always longed for.
One of the most impressive aspects of this cut is the flawless transition between the first and second films. When Superman launches the missile into space in Superman (1978), the story seamlessly shifts to Superman II as the rocket explodes, releasing the supervillains. The back-and-forth cuts between the two films are executed so skillfully that they melt the two stories together into one epic saga.
The Superman II portion of this cut also includes several deleted scenes that significantly enhance the narrative. Without giving away too much, I will say that the decision to use the theatrical ending—eliminating the reversal of the time segment and incorporating the original ending—will undoubtedly satisfy fans who have longed to see this version merged with the best elements of the Donner cut.
As a cherry on top, there's even a post-credits scene, a delightful surprise for fans who stick around until the very end.
While this release is an underground gem that can only be found in certain fan circles, it’s a must-see for any true Superman aficionado. Thanks to Mod Media Group for putting this out, and for giving us the Superman cut we’ve always dreamed of. My biggest hope is that fans who watch it will finally feel that this cut is exactly what they’ve been asking for.
And, of course, it’s impossible to talk about Superman: The Kryptonite Cut without mentioning the most beloved Superman of all—Christopher Reeve. His portrayal remains the heart and soul of this saga, reminding us why he will forever be the definitive Man of Steel.
Jessie Hobson