Thescreescore – Kevin Smith recently revealed his biggest cinematic regret: not directing the infamous, unmade Nicolas Cage Superman Lives. The project, which almost saw Robert Rodriguez at the helm, remains a legendary "what if" in Hollywood lore. Smith, in a recent interview, expressed his desire to see his script, originally intended for the film, come to fruition, specifically highlighting the potential synergy between his writing and Rodriguez’s visionary directing style. He described their collaboration as "a wonderful marriage of material," praising Rodriguez as a "one of [his] generation’s greatest… visionary action directors."
Smith’s script, reportedly featuring Brainiac, Doomsday, and Lex Luthor in an adaptation of "The Death of Superman," was ultimately replaced after director Tim Burton brought in Wesley Strick for a rewrite. Many of Smith’s original ideas, including his dream cast (which initially included Ben Affleck as Superman!), were lost in the process. The project’s tumultuous production, marked by creative clashes and directorial changes, ultimately led to its demise.
Despite the project’s failure to launch, Smith reflects on the missed opportunity with a blend of wistful nostalgia and professional pragmatism. He acknowledged the potential career boost a successful Superman Lives could have provided, opening doors to more high-profile projects. He even playfully imagined himself in a supporting role, perhaps as Perry White, a testament to his enduring affection for the project.
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The potential Superman Lives, with Smith’s script and Rodriguez’s direction, would have undoubtedly delivered a unique take on the iconic superhero. Smith’s comments, however, extend beyond mere regret; they offer a fascinating glimpse into a lost cinematic universe and a testament to the enduring power of "what ifs" in the world of filmmaking. The story serves as a reminder that even the most ambitious projects can fall victim to the unpredictable forces of Hollywood, leaving behind a legacy of intriguing possibilities. The lingering question remains: could this lost Superman film have changed the landscape of superhero cinema?
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