Clark Kent has seen a lot of action over the years.
In the past 87 years, the mild-mannered reporter and his alter ego, Superman, have had a long history as a superhero.
The Man of Steel first appeared in the June 1938 issue of Action Comics, and the years following, he has made many appearances in comic books, radio and television dramas, animated short films and full-length movies.
The character was even featured in It's a Bird... It's a Plane... It's Superman, a Tony-nominated musical on Broadway, in 1966.
A few years later, in 1969, the Monty Python comedy troupe played on the popularity of Superman in the Bicycle Repairman sketch. This is a world where everyone is Superman. One character, Mr. F.G. Superman, has a secret identity. He is a bike mechanic.
This is a light-hearted reversal of the typical Superman stories.
If the numerous comic book, television and film appearances are not enough, there are also Superman-themed video games and plenty of Superman merchandising.
Clark Kent 鈥� Superman 鈥� has a lot of staying power.
The list of Superman actors is lengthy and includes George Reeves, Dean Cain, Christopher Reeve, Henry Cavill and most recently David Corenswet.
Some of the movie and television adaptations of the Superman story have worked to create the atmosphere and appearance of the comic books of the 1930s and 1940s, while others have updated the characters to fit into a more contemporary setting, but still holding true to its original themes.
The latest Superman movie, simply titled Superman, opened recently and is still playing in theatres. This adaptation is a product of the present, although it draws on Superman鈥檚 backstory, presented over the years.
The 2025 movie, and so many other stories featuring the iconic superhero, provide good escapist entertainment and a break from some of the more depressing current events in our world.
Superman first appeared shortly before the Second World War, at a time when the world was on the brink of disaster. In those uncertain times, there was something refreshing about a hero who could save the day.
And today, during a global climate of uncertainty, a larger-than-life hero who can save the world is still an appealing character.
However, strength and superpowers are not enough.
Heroes are heroes because they act justly, love mercy and walk humbly.
Many of the Superman stories over the years show a hero who has immense powers, but is also able to use those powers wisely. He is not reckless or cruel.
Superman lives by a moral code and holds himself to a high standard.
This ethical standard was not nearly as well defined in the early years of Superman, when the Man of Steel was a punisher and vigilante enforcer rather than a protector. Later, he became a beloved symbol of justice.
Superman is a hero with a conscience. Perhaps this is his most endearing quality.
Wearing tights and a cape and flying around the city are eye-catching effects, and battling extreme villains makes for an action-packed adventure movie.
However, long after the final credits have rolled, Superman will be remembered as someone who cares deeply about doing the right thing.
That alone will keep the Man of Steel relevant for many years to come.
John Arendt is the editor of the Summerland Review.
