In “Man of Steel,” the newest take on one of America’s most beloved superheros, Henry Cavill dons the famous red and blue to take on Kryptonian General Zod (Michael Shannon).

While I would definitely recommend seeing the latest in a long line of Superman films, “Man of Steel” leaves something to be desired for those who have a history with the movies and comics.

A lot of people are very nostalgic about Superman and his surroundings: bright Metropolis, the plucky and always suspicious Lois Lane and even the man himself — dashing Superman and his awkward alter ego, Clark Kent. There’s something light about Superman; even at the climax of a comic, there’s not really any stress or angst. Just drama and the happy ending. This incarnation, however, takes itself almost too seriously, abandoning the endearing Clark of the past for an angsty, conflicted character. The actual name “Superman” is barely used, with both military and familiar characters referring to our hero either as Clark or his Kryptonian name, Kal-El.

Even Lois Lane (Amy Adams) seems lost to the writing here. She knows Clark’s secret almost immediately, and the development of their relationship is poorly elaborated.

Sure, the CGI is good, and the final face-off between Superman and General Zod is worth the wait, but “Man of Steel” just is not the Superman that fans know and love. Those who know Superman’s true origins will have some real issues with this reimagining of the hero’s beginnings.

_MOVE gives “Man of Steel” 3 out of 5 stars._