I don't have a problem with the films as such -regarding them mostly as comedies. I do have issues with the character of Superman. The combination of unstoppable power with such extreme idealism and naivete is too scary to be taken seriously! It's why I prefer Marvel, even Dr Doom has his human flaws and soft spots. Also, as the Batman hinted in the Dark Knight Returns graphic novel, Superman, in his heart of hearts, is not Kal-El, last son of Krypton, but Clark Kent, a farm boy from Kansas who believes in the Flag, Apple Pie and the Fourth of July and who, if ordered to do so by someone in authority, would bring about the deaths of millions because of it.

Though whenever I watch the films or read the comics, I do wonder what would have happened if that spacecraft had crashed in the Home Counties? Or a Council Estate in the Midlands? Or a street of terraced houses in Bradford?

"Eh up, young Lex! If tha doesn't stop muckin' abaht, Ah shall 'ave ter thump thee!"