Superman (1978)
Kernel Score: 81% · 4,195 ratings · Rated PG
Genres: Science Fiction, Action, Adventure
Released: 1978-12-14
Runtime: 144 minutes
Is Superman worth watching?
Worth watching. The original big-screen Superman still has a sense of wonder, and Christopher Reeve is perfect in the role. It's slower than modern superhero films and its tone is old-fashioned, but it's warm and sincere.
Watch it if you
- love classic superhero origins
- want an earnest, hopeful hero
- enjoy 70s blockbusters
Skip it if you
- want fast action
- dislike camp
Best for: Family classic night
Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.
Where to watch Superman
- Stream: YouTube TV, HBO Max
- Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
Mild-mannered Clark Kent works as a reporter at the Daily Planet alongside his crush, Lois Lane. Clark must summon his superhero alter-ego when the nefarious Lex Luthor launches a plan to take over the world.
Superman parents' guide: ages 8+
Parents need to know that Superman (1978) is a PG superhero adventure with a nuclear missile threat and comic-book action but no graphic violence.
- Violence & scariness: Some — Includes a nuclear missile plot and superhero confrontations with a criminal mastermind, but violence is bloodless and classic-adventure in tone.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official PG rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Movies like Superman
If you liked Superman, these are the movies we'd watch next.
- Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut (2006) — 82%: The sequel, in the director's own cut.
- Superman (2025) — 82%: Newest film to bring back the optimism.
- Batman (1989) — 81%: Gothic comic-book film with a brooding hero.
- Star Wars (1977) — 94%: Another sweeping 70s adventure.
- Batman Begins (2005) — 88%: Serious, grounded hero origin story.
- The Avengers (2012) — 87%: Big team-up of colourful heroes.
Director
Cast
- Christopher Reeve as Clark Kent / Superman
- Margot Kidder as Lois Lane
- Gene Hackman as Lex Luthor
- Marlon Brando as Jor-El
- Ned Beatty as Otis
- Jackie Cooper as Perry White
- Glenn Ford as Pa Kent
- Trevor Howard as 1st Elder
- Jack O'Halloran as Non
- Valerie Perrine as Eve Teschmacher
Superman FAQ
Is Superman worth watching?
Worth watching. The original big-screen Superman still has a sense of wonder, and Christopher Reeve is perfect in the role. It's slower than modern superhero films and its tone is old-fashioned, but it's warm and sincere.
Where can I watch Superman?
In the US you can stream Superman on YouTube TV and HBO Max and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.
Is Superman OK for kids?
Superman is rated PG. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 8+. Parents need to know that Superman (1978) is a PG superhero adventure with a nuclear missile threat and comic-book action but no graphic violence.
What movies are like Superman?
If you liked Superman, try Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut, Superman, Batman and Star Wars.