Plot: What’s it about?
Rick Riker (Drake Bell) is a shy teen, bullied by his classmates and invisible to the girl he pines for, Jill (Sara Paxton). On a field trip to a science lab however, Rick’s life is changed forever. A genetically modified dragonfly escapes from its case and bites Rick, which results in some unusual developments. He goes from weakling to superhero, with powers like sticky hands, enhanced speed, and impenetrable skin. Of course, this doesn’t help with his popularity at school, though he is able to fight back a little. He dons a mask to make sure his real identity is hidden, then tries to become a superhero. But when he has to go toe-to-toe with The Hourglass (Christopher McDonald), can this rookie hero prove his worth?
I knew this would be a bad movie, but I hoped my affection for comic books would make Superhero Movie more palatable. As it turns out, this isn’t as bad as some of the other Movie movies, but even superhero fans will be left cold here. The plot apes Spider-Man for the most part, but with countless tacked on references and half hearted spoofs of other comic book features. No one is safe here, as the X-Men, Batman, Fantastic Four, and others are skewered, but few of the jokes hit the mark. Most of these side skits come off as rushed and poorly executed. The Human Torch scene was downright painful to watch, for example. A few laughs can be had, but sadly, Superhero Movie elicits more groans than giggles. Dimension’s Blu-ray release offers both the theatrical version and an extended cut, but the new version fizzles as well.
Video: How does it look?
Superhero Movie is presented in 1.78:1 anamorphic widescreen. The movie looks great in this transfer, with a much improved presence over the DVD. I was able to notice the enhanced detail right off, as scenes have a crisper, deeper look here. The depth isn’t up to the level of Blu-ray’s best, but rest assured this puts the DVD to shame. The film’s vibrant color scheme is well handled also, as hues are vivid and bound off the screen. I saw no contrast issues either, as black levels look terrific. In short, the movie might not be good, but this transfer is great.
Audio: How does it sound?
This might be a superhero movie, but the soundtrack isn’t up to the real comic book movie levels. This Dolby TrueHD 5.1 option is solid however, but don’t expect much punch from this material. A few scenes ratchet up the action and those sound good, with some amped up surround presence. But most scenes lack that kind of power, so we’re left with mundane audio. Even the farts sound dull in this soundtrack. Not bad, but not a memorable presentation. This disc also includes a Dolby Digital 5.1 option, French and German language tracks, and subtitles in English, Spanish, and German.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This disc includes a better than expected audio commentary track, as director Craig Mazin seems to understand what a junk film he’s helped create. Not the full on apology the audience deserves, but its a start. This disc also includes some deleted scenes, an alternate end sequence, a couple of promotional featurettes, and the film’s theatrical trailer.
