Numerous actors have portrayed Superman in the 21st century, but Christopher Reeve’s performance remains highly regarded, even by the directors of a new documentary that has just released its trailer.

The trailer for “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” was unveiled on Monday, offering a sneak peek for fans as the documentary is set to release in theaters on September 21 and 25.

“Christopher Reeve’s story is one of incredible transformation from a little-known actor to a legendary star, with his iconic embodiment of Clark Kent/Superman shaping the superhero genre as we know it,” the trailer’s synopsis states.

Directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, the documentary not only covers Reeve’s legacy as Superman but also explores his life pre- and post-1995, when a horse-riding accident left him paralyzed from the neck down. This project debuted at the 40th Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, and received a heartfelt response from the audience, including tears and a standing ovation, according to The Guardian.

“This film features previously unseen personal home videos along with a wealth of archival materials, plus the first extensive interviews conducted with Reeve’s three children about their dad, alongside insights from Hollywood stars who were Reeve’s friends and colleagues,” the trailer’s description mentions. “The documentary presents a powerful and vivid portrayal of Reeve’s extraordinary life.”

What to Expect from ‘Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story’

The three-and-a-half-minute trailer begins with clips of Reeve as Clark Kent from the 1978 “Superman” film, while a voiceover of the late actor conveys, “I am not a hero. That was just a part. I played the part. I am not that man.”

The trailer then continues, showcasing behind-the-scenes footage and remarks from “Superman” director Richard Donner along with comments from Reeve’s children, Matthew and Alexandra.

“Spending time with my dad was centered around activities and excitement,” Matthew recalls in the trailer. “We were biking, playing soccer, skiing. When I said goodbye, he waved. That was the last moment I saw him standing.”

In the trailer, other actors like Glenn Close and Susan Sarandon talk about Reeve’s bond with the late comedian Robin Williams. It also briefly touches on how Reeve founded the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, which focuses on advancing spinal cord injury research and enhancing the lives of those affected by paralysis.

“What defines a hero? Initially, I thought a hero is someone who acts bravely without considering the risks,” Reeve shares in the trailer. “Now, my view has shifted. I believe a hero is an everyday person who discovers the strength to persist despite overwhelming challenges.”

When Did Christopher Reeve Pass Away?

Christopher Reeve passed away on October 12, 2004, due to heart failure at the age of 52. He developed a pressure sore from years of wheelchair use, which became infected and led to severe health complications.

The infection spread throughout his body, ultimately leading to cardiac arrest and his passing, as reported by the New York Times in 2004.

Dana Reeve, Christopher’s wife, passed away on March 6, 2006, from lung cancer at the age of 44, as reported by CBS News.

She received her diagnosis for the illness on August 9, 2005, despite being a non-smoker.

Contributing: Saman Shafiq/ YSL News