Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987)

I've just been given the Superman Boxset for Christmas, and much like the Robocop Trilogy, I would never have bought the 3rd or 4th film separately had it not been for the fact they came with the other two.

For me, the Superman franchise started going downhill with Superman III. Sure, it had its comic moments, and the scene where Superman splits in two to become good and evil persona's was good, but I really felt that it was a downward spiral from there.

So on revisiting Superman IV: The Quest for Peace, I think had the 3rd film not existed, I really don't think people would hold the 4th in such low regard.

Lets admit a few things: 1). Some of the special effects are anything but, and are a step backwards from the first three films (surely they should get better) 2). Some of the plot holes are quite glaring, humans in space among some of the more stupid ones.

But for the storyline, I think the basic storyline is fine, and I certainly like this aspect better than Superman III. The comedy doesn't feel forced like III, it feels more natural here.

If what is believed is true that Superman IV was originally a full 50minutes longer (something I don't believe because films going over 2hrs was commercial suicide up until Dances with Wolves), then some of the plot holes (like Superman knowing that Nuclear Man was going after Lacy Warfield) might very well have been cleared up.

I remember seeing the film for the first time and being disappointed. Now I've seen it again 19 years later, I have to say, ignoring the dodgy effects (and in some places they are as good as the first three films) and some of the glaring plot holes, I have to say its better than I remembered it to be.

I wouldn't choose to buy it on its own, but its welcome enough as part of the package with the other three.