Key Takeaways:
– Christopher Reeve had reservations about landing the ‘Superman' role.
– Reeve worked alongside Marlon Brando in the ‘Superman' film and had a rocky relationship with Brando.
– Reeve expressed dissatisfaction regarding Brando's lack of enthusiasm and dedication towards acting.
Superman's Rise to Fame: Christopher Reeve's Early Career
Christopher Reeve's career soared high as he enacted the role of DC superhero Superman in the iconic 1978 movie. Prior to that, his first professional screen role was as Ben Harper in the CBS soap opera ‘Love of Life.' It wasn't until 1978 that he made his Hollywood debut in ‘Gray Lady Down.' However, his apprehension about sharing screen space with experienced actors like Marlon Brando and Gene Hackman initially made him doubt his chances of playing Superman.
In an interview with David Letterman, Reeve opened up about the tension and disappointment that marked his relationship with co-star Brando on the set of ‘Superman.'
Christopher Reeve's Concerns with Brando's Work Ethic
By the time of ‘Superman,' Brando had made his mark as one of Hollywood's finest actors. Cast as Jor-El, Kal-El's biological father, Brando's role had limited screen time as his character died early in the movie. His continued presence in the film was through recorded messages guiding his son towards becoming the ideal superhero.
Despite Brando's reputation, Reeve expressed disappointment about the actor's lack of commitment to his roles. In a frank conversation on Late Night with David Letterman, Reeve admitted, “I don't say this to be vicious but I don't worship at the altar of Marlon Brando. Because I feel he's copped out in a certain way.”
Reeve's Cautious Entry Into The Role Of Superman
Despite his initial apprehension, Reeve managed to impress the casting director Lynn Stalmaster. Stalmaster tirelessly recommended Reeve for the Superman role, even though it took multiple tries to convince the film's producers. Only after Stalmaster's persistent efforts was a meeting arranged between Reeve, Richard Donner (the film's director), and Ilya Salkind (producer). Reeve's screen test was a success; from there on, his journey as the beloved superhero Superman took off.
Unfulfilled Expectations: Reeve's Disappointment in Brando
Revealing further about his disappointment in the iconic ‘Godfather' actor, Reeve told Letterman, “He could really be inspiring a whole generation of actors by continuing to work. But what happened is the press loved him whether he was good, bad, or indifferent. People thought he was this institution no matter what he did.”
Particularly in the '60s and '70s, Brando's acting career hit a low with a string of flops. His reported increasingly difficult behavior exacerbated matters. By the time he starred in ‘Superman' in 1978, Brando had admitted to taking on roles purely for financial reasons. Not caring for public opinion anymore, his attitude seemed to vindicate Reeve's frustrations during their time together on set.
Christopher Reeve's experience of working with Marlon Brando on ‘Superman' sheds new light on their professional interactions. Though both actors left their lasting imprint on Hollywood, their stories remind us that an actor's charisma and talent on screen often hide the reality of what happens behind the scenes.
