‘Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story’ to Premiere in Theaters This Fall

A new documentary film holds a lens up to Christopher Reeve, the actor and director best known for portraying Superman. After making his debut in 1978’s Superman, the first movie in the franchise, Reeve returned to the role in three more films.

Directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January. The documentary chronicles the late Reeve’s life, from action movie star to disability rights activist.

In 1995, Reeve was competing in an equestrian competition when he was thrown from his horse, an accident that left him paralyzed from the neck down. For the remainder of his life, the actor used a wheelchair and ventilator. He dedicated himself to advocating for those with disabilities, launching a foundation and research center focused on treatment for spinal injuries.

As part of a partnership between DC Studios and Fathom Events, the documentary is set to premiere in movie theaters across the US on September 21 in a one-day-only showing. An additional encore showing will follow in select theaters on September 25 in honor of Reeve’s birthday.

“Everyone knows that Superman is a superhero, but I’m eager for audiences to discover the REAL superhero behind Superman,” Fathom Events CEO Ray Nutt said. “This film is an extraordinary story that takes a deep dive into the man Christopher Reeve really was and the courage he displayed.”