The trailer for dropped on August 26, and it’s already moving DC fans to tears. Directed by McQueen filmmakers Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, this heartfelt documentary goes beyond the cape to explore the life of Christopher Reeve, the man who became an icon. It’s a deeply emotional journey that showcases not just Reeve’s rise as the beloved Superman, but also his extraordinary battle for survival after his devastating accident.
His story is one of immense courage, resilience, and an unyielding spirit. For many, Reeve is the ultimate Superman, both on-screen and in life. This trailer is a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy.
. But who was Christopher Reeve? And what makes this three-minute and thirty-eight-second glimpse so powerful? Dive in to discover the man behind the legend and why this documentary is set to be an unforgettable tribute to a true hero. Christopher Reeve was an American actor, best known for his iconic portrayal of Superman in the 1978 film and its sequels.
Born on September 25, 1952, in New York City, Reeve wasn’t just an actor; he was also a talented musician who played the piano and was fluent in French. Before his rise to fame, he worked as a soap opera actor and even turned down the role of Superman twice before accepting it. After a horse-riding accident in 1995 left him paralysed, Reeve became a passionate advocate for spinal cord injury research, founding the Christopher Reeve Foundation.
Christopher Reeve never saw himself as just a role-playing hero; he believed deeply in his capacity to make a difference. While he saw playing Superman as just that—acting—he hoped it would be transformative for him and the world. Late American filmmaker Richard Donner said that from their first meeting, Christopher Reeve convinced him he was the perfect choice for Superman.
Reeve’s confidence and charm made Donner believe that he could truly make audiences believe a man could fly. Matthew Reeve fondly remembers his father as an active man, always riding bikes, playing soccer, and skiing. His daughter Alexandra shared that her dad’s competitive spirit never wavered—he never slowed down.
Even after his tragic accident, Reeve’s zest for life and determination to keep going left an indelible mark on those who loved him. . In 1995, Christopher Reeve’s life took a devastating turn when he was thrown from a horse during an equestrian competition in Culpeper, Virginia.
The accident left him paralysed from the neck down, forever changing the course of his life. After the accident, in the trailer, it can be heard in Reeve's voice that he was regretful and even said that he would be able to do anything that a normal person would get to do and even regrets that he would be able to make love to his wife Dana. At one point he even said that it's better if they let him go.
Glenn Close, featured in the trailer, shared that she and Robin Williams were close friends because they truly understood each other. The trailer also includes a poignant moment with the late Robin Williams, who speaks about how Christopher Reeve's relentless fight and unwavering spirit inspired hope in millions. Despite being confined to a wheelchair and reliant on a ventilator, Christopher Reeve didn’t withdraw from life.
Instead, he emerged as a strong advocate for those with spinal cord injuries, transforming his tragedy into a mission for hope and change. His efforts led to the launch of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Paralysis Act, aimed at advancing research and improving the lives of others facing similar challenges. What is a hero? For Christopher Reeve, it wasn’t just about performing brave acts without regard for consequences.
He believed a hero is someone who, despite being an ordinary person, finds the strength to persevere and endure in the face of overwhelming obstacles..
