Video: Alternate Opening Sequence For “Superman Returns” Revealed

In 2006, Warner Bros. released the Bryan Singer-directed Superman Returns to lukewarm reviews and a soft box office return. Hardcore fans had trouble accepting a Superman movie where the Man of Steel didn't even get to throw a punch; meanwhile, astute movie reviewers pointed out the story's lack of cohesion.

While audiences may never get to see Brandon Routh put a pounding on Lex Luthor, they can get a more fleshed-out experience now that the studio has unveiled the film's deleted opening sequence. Originally only available on the Blu-ray release, Super Hero Hype has found a clear version of the scene, which reportedly cost millions to produce.

The sequence follows Superman as he responds to reports that his home planet of Krypton was discovered perfectly intact by astronomers, but it turns out it was just a ploy by Lex Luthor to get Supes off the planet while he was on trial. With this scene cut out in the theatrical release, fans were left to scratch their heads as to why Superman left Earth at all. Which is kind of pathetic because, after all, that was really the whole point of the film.

Perhaps this scene can add a little more clarity and gravitas to Singer's disappointment.

[Via Super Hero Hype]