Matthew Reeve Reflects on His Father, Christopher Reeve, as a Real-Life Superman
In a heartfelt tribute, Matthew Reeve, son of the iconic actor Christopher Reeve, describes his father as his personal Superman. Speaking in Rome alongside the directors of the upcoming documentary 'Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story', Matthew shared insights into his father's remarkable journey from a Hollywood star to a real-life hero. The documentary, set to premiere on October 10, marks the 20th anniversary of Reeve's passing and aims to celebrate his courage and activism following a life-altering accident.
Matthew recalls how his father, initially celebrated for his role as Superman in the 1970s and 80s, transformed into a symbol of resilience after a tragic horse riding accident left him paralyzed. "He found his strength in a community he never expected to be part of," Matthew said, highlighting how Christopher became an advocate for spinal cord injury research and disability rights, ultimately raising over $150 million through the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.
The documentary offers an intimate look at Christopher's life, featuring rare footage and interviews with his children and fellow actors. Matthew emphasized the importance of remembering his father's impactful Oscar speech, which was his first public appearance after the accident, where he spoke about the power of cinema to inform and entertain.
- The documentary 'Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story' explores not only the actor's rise to fame but also his profound transformation after his accident. It showcases his relentless pursuit of a cure for spinal injuries and his commitment to improving the lives of those affected by paralysis. Through the foundation he established, significant funds have been allocated to innovative research and quality of life programs. Christopher Reeve's legacy continues to inspire many, as he is remembered not just as Superman on screen but as a beacon of hope and determination in real life. The film features contributions from notable figures in Hollywood, including Susan Sarandon and Glenn Close, who reflect on their relationships with Reeve and his enduring impact on their lives and the world.