“They threatened my life…”: The Christopher Reeve ‘Superman’ Scandal That Led to Director Richard Donner Receiving Violent Death Threats

Richard Donner’s 1978 film Superman remains iconic for Christopher Reeve’s depiction of the hero but one aspect of it drew backlash.

christopher reeve, superman and richard donner

Christopher Reeve’s Superman remains iconic in every right despite several decades since he donned the iconic cape and suit. Although a new iteration helmed by James Gunn is on the horizon, the Richard Donner version is still a classic. However, given the character’s popularity, even Donner wasn’t spared from the scrutiny that comes with tackling Superman.

christopher reeve in superman the movieChristopher Reeve’s 1978 Superman remains iconic (Credit: Warner Bros).

During an interview, Donner spoke about working on the classic movie. He admitted to receiving death threats for one approach that has continued to be associated with the character. Donner was understandably surprised by the response. As a result, Gunn must take notes from the director’s rare misstep, and here is why.

Superman director Richard Donner received death threats over religious symbolism

Filmmaker Richard Donner became the first director to bring DC Comics superhero Superman to the big screen. Starring Christopher Reeve in the titular role, the film took flight in December 1978. It received critical acclaim and became a blockbuster, grossing $300 million worldwide.

richard donner total filmRichard Donner admitted to receiving death threats for Superman (Credit: Warner Bros).

During an interview with The Telegraph, Donner talked about directing the now-iconic movie, which also won an Academy Award for its visual effects. Donner revealed that he received a death threat for the religious symbolism in his depiction of Superman and Jor-El.

They threatened my life… One woman wrote a letter saying how dare I compare Brando to God and Christopher Reeve to Jesus. She said my blood would run in the streets. I guess you make a good movie, somebody takes it as a reality.

Donner made the above statement, referencing the aspect of Superman’s origin story where Jor-El sends his only child to Earth, who is then expected to become the savior of humanity.

As a result of the vague religious parallels comparing Reeve’s Clark Kent / Superman to Jesus and Marlon Brando’s Jor-El to God, it is understandable why certain sections of the audience had a drastic reaction to the film, resulting in Donner receiving death threats.

James Gunn needs to avoid religious symbolism in Superman

Despite the death threats Donner received, the religious allegories have never quite escaped the depiction of Superman, especially in mainstream media. Following the very vague reference in Donner’s film, filmmaker Zack Synder doubled down on it in his take on Henry Cavill’s Man of Steel.

David Corenswet in a still from Superman | Credits: DC Studios/WB PicturesJames Gunn’s Superman needs to avoid religious allegory (Credits: Warner Bros).

The film featured several scenes that directly compared Superman to a Jesus-like messianic figure. Moreover, Superman’s death in Batman v Superman and revival in Justice League, make his story arc extremely similar to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Given the unfavorable reactions to Snyder’s take and the death threats Donner received, it is safe to say that religious allegory doesn’t blend well with the depiction of Superman, and rightly so. The character is supposed to be a paragon of hope and represent the best of humanity. As a result, comparing him to Jesus will always be unfavorable.

Gunn’s upcoming Superman film recently launched its first teaser trailer, confirming Gunn was going for a more hopeful take on the character. However, episode 4 of Creature Commandos depicts a possible apocalyptic future depicting Superman crucified on a cross. Therefore, Gunn must take notes from Donner and Snyder’s missteps and avoid religious allegory completely.

Superman (1978) is streaming on Max.

Related Posts

Disney’s Snow White Faces Brutal Reviews – A Box Office Disaster in the Making?

The reviews are in, and it’s NOT looking good for Disney’s Snow White. The highly anticipated live-action remake has officially hit theaters, but instead of enchanting audiences, it’s dividing…

💔 Shocking Revelation: The Devastating Reason Camilla Was Kicked Out of the Palace—Charles’ Protection Fails! 😱

  Queen Camila’s engagement ring has solidified her presence in the royal spotlight and sparked speculation about its meaning. Rumors suggest that King Charles is furious, and…

⚡ Katerina Strikes Back: Queen Camilla’s Disappointment Sparks Palace Chaos in a Royal Revenge Storm! 😱

< The royal family, once considered the epitome of unity and solidarity, has been facing tensions within the royal household. Queen Camila and Princess Catherine, both prominent…

😶 King Charles Left Speechless: Princess Anne Shares Queen Elizabeth’s Powerful Message About Catherine! 💬

In Buckingham Palace, Princess Anne revealed the truth about a prophecy left by Queen Elizabeth II during a private family gathering. The revelation left the royal family…

🚫 Princess Kate Takes Charge: Vowing to Block Harry & Meghan’s UK Return Plans! 😱

  The royal family’s tensions have escalated, with Princess of Wales drawing a Fame Line in the Sand regarding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s plans to establish…

👑✈️ Prince Harry Left Disappointed as Meghan Refuses to Join Deportation Trip Amid King’s Secret Offer to US! 😱

Prince Harry, now in California, is facing a storm of uncertainty due to his candid admissions of past drug use in his memoir. Meghan Markle, the former…