Superman in film the script, giving it a serious feel with Christ-like overtones. Christopher Reeve was cast as Superman, having initially failed to impress the Salkinds before bulking up. Brando meanwhile, despite spending less than two weeks on the shoot, and not even reading the script until then, earned $3.7 million up front, plus 11.75% of the gross profits from the film. The film was a success both critically and commercially, being released during the Christmas season of 1978; it did not have much competition, leading the producers to believe that this was one factor in the film's success. Shooting of the two
Dana Reeve Reeve died on March 6, 2006, at the age of 44 at Memorial Sloan–Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Episode 16 of the fifth season of "Smallville" titled "Hypnotic" is dedicated to her and the film "Superman Returns" is dedicated to both her and Christopher. The animated film "Everyone's Hero" (2006) is also dedicated in memory of Christopher and Dana Reeve. Her husband predeceased her on October 10, 2004. Dana Reeve Dana Charles Reeve (née Morosini; March 17, 1961 – March 6, 2006) was an American actress, singer, and activist for disability causes. She was the wife of actor