Let’s apply our 2024 understanding of the Hero’s Journey to Zack Snyder’s divisive Man of Steel movie.
Ordinary World: Clark Kent drifts through life, concealing his powers and searching for his identity.
Call to Adventure: The discovery of a Kryptonian scout ship and Jor-El's message prompts him to embrace his heritage.
Refusal of the Call: Clark hesitates, fearing exposure and the responsibility of his powers.
Meeting the Mentor: He interacts with both Jor-El's AI and Jonathan Kent, receiving contrasting guidance on his path.
Crossing the Threshold: Clark dons the Superman suit and reveals himself to the world, accepting his role as a protector.
Tests, Allies, and Enemies: He battles General Zod and the Kryptonians, forming alliances with Lois Lane and the military.
Approach to the Inmost Cave: The world teeters on the brink of destruction as Zod's terraforming threatens humanity.
The Ordeal: Superman must choose between saving his people or protecting Earth, culminating in a morally complex decision to kill Zod.
The Reward: Superman earns humanity's trust, but grapples with the weight of his actions.
Road Back/Resurrection/Return with the Elixir: The film ends with Clark assuming a dual identity, embracing his role as a journalist while continuing his journey as Superman.
Deviations/Improvements:
Deconstructed Hero: Snyder's Superman is less confident and more conflicted than traditional portrayals, highlighting the burden of his power.
Moral Ambiguity: The film challenges the notion of a flawless hero, forcing Superman to make difficult choices with lasting consequences.
Scientific Explanation: Kryptonian biology and technology play a significant role, grounding the fantastical elements in a semi-plausible context.
Visual Spectacle: Snyder's signature visual style elevates the action sequences, creating a visually stunning experience.
Open Ending: The film concludes with Superman's journey just beginning, leaving room for further exploration of his character and role in the world.
Overall:
While Man of Steel adheres to the Hero's Journey structure, it does so with a modern sensibility, delving into the psychological complexities of being Superman. This darker, more grounded approach resonates with contemporary audiences, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved character. The film's ending sets the stage for a continuing arc, leaving viewers eager to see how Superman evolves and grapples with his newfound identity.