You can definitely see the DNA of American Alien here, specifically the last two issues in Metropolis, but that apart, this is a fairly original story.
This movie sells me on the idea that this is a 'young' Superman better than almost any story across media (Morrison's New 52 run, AA and possibly Miller's Year One being the exceptions of course). Usually, when we get a 'beginner' Superman, he's not depicted as being particularly different from the more established Superman we're all used to. He's the same guy, except he's doing all this for the first time. But this movie really sells us on Clark's almost boyish optimism and enthusiasm, his lack of experience, and yes, arguably his naivety as well (just look at how earnestly he teams up with Luthor and even Lobo, the latter whom he knows is a bounty hunter with a contract to kill him!
At the same time, while this Superman can't save the day all on his own (and arguably he doesn't really save it at all if you assume that Parasite headed for the nuclear reactor just in a mad bid for more power rather than to sacrifice himself to stop the explosion), he's clearly no pushover. He's a strong man, both physically and in terms of his determination. He's someone who's ready to fight, but who's also ready to appeal. He's someone who's convinced that good can thrive in this world, and all he needs to do is push it through forcefully enough, by word and by deed. There is a naivety in his thoughts and his actions, but its the kind of naivety a dark and cynical world could perhaps do with and which, over time, could give way to wisdom and a more mature optimism.
I LOVED Lois Lane in this one. Again, they really sold me on this being a 'young' Lois (albeit, seemingly a bit older and more experienced than Clark) who's just starting to make her mark. Its interesting that Lois takes down Luthor and makes an enemy of him even before Superman is in the picture...I wonder if moving forward Luthor becomes more of a Lois enemy in this continuity than a Superman one. And I loved the pep talk she gave Clark, and the look she gave him leads me to believe that Lois might actually know...if you know what I mean?
The Kents were great as well. I loved Pa Kent's line about how Clark is a grown-up now and he needs to make his own decisions. I love the idea that this is a Clark who doesn't become Superman because a hologram of Jor-El told him so or because his adoptive parents spent his entire childhood mentally preparing him to become a superhero of some sort. I like the idea that he just wants to use his powers to help where he can, and then when his existence is revealed, he decides to try and be a positive representative for aliens and superhumans.
Lobo was just a THRILL! Nuff said! Lex was interesting too...it seemed that he could almost be reformed by the end of the film, until he decides to turn on Superman at the end. Wonder what became of Lobo's kryptonite ring? I guess Lex will get his hands on it eventually? Or it falls into Batman's hands...?
By the way, I kinda found the Batman reference neat, mainly because it was a kind of reference to the early TAS episode where Martha talks about the ''nut in Gotham City''...except here she has a more positive opinion of Batman, seemingly. Also, American Alien had Clark literally use Batman's cape as part of his proto-suit, so its likely a nod to that. I'm generally okay with Batman predating Superman in-universe...I think it makes more sense for Batman and it doesn't take away anything from Superman, so this worked for me.
That said, I loved that J'onn J'onzz is the first other hero Clark teams up with. Hell, I think this is the first significant role J'onn has played in these movies in forever - he was virtually given glorified cameos all through the New 52 era films. I do hope his role here means that J'onn will be a more crucial character in this new continuity moving forward. His being at the Kent farm reminded me of the old JLU Christmas episode. And it makes perfect sense for him to be a mentor to Clark, especially when it comes to dealing with his alien heritage and humanity's reaction to it. They also did a GREAT job depicting J'onn's powers and making them distinct from Superman's.
Last but not the least, a bit about the design - I frankly LOVE it. It feels both modern as well as old-school...Lex in particular wouldn't feel out of place in a Superfriends episode or a Silver Age comics panel. Love the look of Metropolis, Superman's kinda retro-looking suit design and the bright colors in general.
On the whole, a great start to a brave and bold new era in the DC animated line. I'm looking forward to seeing where they go next with Superman in particular. I'm guessing a Brainiac story might be in the offing. Possibly an appearance by Supergirl as well? Both these characters were missing in the New 52 continuity so it'd be great to see them...especially since they'd fit in perfectly with the kind of neo-Silver Age vibe they seem to be going for here.
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