Why Superman Is Hard To Write For - Video Essay

Summary

This video essay delves into why Superman, despite being one of the most iconic superheroes, is also one of the hardest to write for. The script explores Superman's perfection—his strength, intelligence, and moral code—and how this leaves little room for character development. The challenge of maintaining Superman's archetype while keeping him interesting is discussed, highlighting examples like 'Man of Steel' and 'Injustice.' The essay concludes with reflections on the evolving nature of superhero characters, the appeal of flaws in heroes, and the personal connection the creator has found in producing content for their growing audience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Superman is considered the most iconic superhero, but his perfection makes him difficult to write for.
• 😀 While Superman has numerous successful adaptations, his perfect nature presents a challenge for writers, as it limits character development.
• 😀 Superman’s moral code and lack of flaws create a paradox, making it hard for writers to craft compelling stories.
• 😀 Some writers change Superman’s character, putting him in no-win situations, such as the controversial kill scene in *Man of Steel*.
• 😀 If writers adhere strictly to Superman's traditional characterization, they risk making him a flat, boring character.
• 😀 Evolving Superman’s character can result in alienating long-time fans who prefer his original, flawless portrayal.
• 😀 In contrast to Superman, other superheroes like Batman and Captain America have adapted well to changing audience expectations by evolving with darker, more flawed personas.
• 😀 Superman’s role as the embodiment of the best in humanity makes him hard to adapt because giving him flaws diminishes his archetypal nature.
• 😀 The *Injustice* comic series is one example where Superman is portrayed with significant flaws, resulting in a more interesting but less recognizable character.
• 😀 Despite the challenges, there are still compelling Superman stories, like *Superman: The Animated Series*, which show that unique ideas can work even with traditional portrayals.
• 😀 The personal reflection at the end of the video highlights the creator’s sense of fulfillment in creating unique content and growing their channel, contrasting with their previous experiences of unfulfilling work.

Q & A

Why is Superman considered difficult to write for?

Superman is difficult to write for because he is portrayed as nearly perfect—extremely powerful, intelligent, handsome, and morally unwavering. This leaves little room for character development and makes it challenging for writers to create compelling stories.

What is the paradox writers face when writing Superman?

The paradox is that the more a writer makes Superman interesting by introducing flaws or weaknesses, the less he resembles the idealized 'perfect' Superman. On the other hand, staying true to his flawless nature risks creating a boring, flat character.

How do Superman's flaws differ from those of other superheroes?

Superman’s flaws are often seen as trivial compared to the traumatic pasts or complex moral dilemmas faced by other heroes. His flaws, such as 'caring too much' or 'working too hard,' are not as relatable or interesting as the deeper issues that characters like Batman and Captain America face.

What was the controversy surrounding Superman's actions in 'Man of Steel'?

In 'Man of Steel,' Superman kills General Zod, which goes against his traditional 'no-kill' rule. This deviation from the source material sparked controversy among fans, with some appreciating the complexity it added to Superman's character, while others felt it betrayed his iconic moral code.

Why do some Superman stories become more compelling when he is less idealized?

Stories like *Injustice* become more compelling when Superman's character is less idealized because they allow for more emotional depth and complexity, making him a more human and flawed character, which creates greater investment for the audience.

How has Superman's character evolved over time compared to other superheroes like Captain America?

While Superman’s character has largely remained unchanged, other superheroes like Captain America have evolved to reflect more complex, morally ambiguous traits. Captain America, once a symbol of idealism, has become more nuanced, whereas Superman has struggled to adapt to these evolving storytelling trends.

What role did Superman play in post-World War II culture?

After World War II, Superman represented an idealized, flawless man who gave people hope during a difficult time. He offered escapism, embodying the best qualities of humanity at a time when the world was facing significant challenges.

Why is Superman considered an archetype rather than a fully developed character?

Superman is considered an archetype because he represents the ultimate ideal—powerful, incorruptible, and morally perfect—without much room for character growth. This makes him less complex and more static compared to characters who evolve and reflect changing societal values.

Why do some people prefer Superman's stories when he is less recognizable as the 'perfect' hero?

Some people prefer stories where Superman is less recognizable because they offer a more dynamic and relatable character. Stories that challenge his moral code or depict him as fallible create more emotional engagement and make his journey more interesting.

What does the speaker suggest is essential for writing a compelling Superman story?

The speaker suggests that to write a compelling Superman story, writers need a unique and fresh idea that brings a new perspective to a character who has already been explored by countless writers. This helps create a narrative that resonates with audiences while keeping Superman's core essence intact.