Superman [1978] - Opening Titles/Credits Sequence (720p)

4K version: • Superman [1978] - Open...
Music by John Williams.
Film directed by Richard Donner and distributed by Warner Bros.

[@malbourne805]

Those of us who saw this for the first time in cinemas in 1978 as little kids will never forget the thrill of experiencing this. I'm 49 years old, and every time I see this I feel like I'm 6 years old again. And yes, my train of emotions derails instantly. Watching this opening night with my parents back then. Miss you, mom. Thanks to both my parents for giving me the love of the cinema. Greatest movie opening of ALL TIME!!

[@Dave740522]

I feel the same dude. I'm 48 and I went with my parents as well. Titles like this or E.T. are unforgettable to me.

[@SeanHogan.]

I saw this over 10 times in cinema at 10 years old 1978 still love it!!!

[@rickmontgomery3037]

Agree, and well said :)

[@laras3282]

Yes, this opening. credits evokes memories. We went to the cinema (when they used to show double features) with dad. And in awe of the vastness of space, and the music is orchestrated with so much gusto, There is nothing to compare - I also like the Star Wars main theme musically but this is beyond that. I can happily sit at home with the curtains drawn, put on my blu ray copy and crank up the home theatre system and watch this movie over and over. And still the best Superman film of all. Even with (compared to therecent versions) the special effects are well done for the time.

[@zsoltkiss545]

I only saw it for the first time when I was 12 years old, in 1978 - I was 2 years old😁

[@Justdisco2]

The greatest opening credits in cinema history,

[@Markus-xm4zv]

+Cap285 well Blade Runner is my favorite

[@Viennenora]

+Dave Shields That's it! But in surround is twice as good !!! :-D

[@Justdisco2]

+Melanie-Louise S yeah, yes i agree and your compensating a smaller screen for great sound.

[@Viennenora]

+Dave Shields You mean certainly a bigger screen? And a super- good Top sound system! But the sound is already here in stereo, digital very good! I love “JOHN WILLIAMS“ Movie-Soundtracks!!!

[@petercampi2840]

+Dave Shields I consider it one of the best, right up there with Star Wars, Alien, and Total Recall (1990 of course).

[@rwboa22]

RIP Richard Donner, the director that made us believe that a man could fly.

[@rigelbellatrix8410]

Actually, John Williams had more to do with that than the movie's director.

[@tctyt]

@@rigelbellatrix8410 but we have to respect to the legendary director that formed a new superhero genre and not just the legendary composer who done it too.

[@rigelbellatrix8410]

@@tctyt Directors sometimes get too much credit for some of the best movies ever made. Where would those great movies be without their film composers and writers?

[@S.F.K.M.]

R.I.P. Richard Doner.. Long live Jonh... ❤️ U Williams...

[@radk88]

No, the film director that made us believe that superhéroes exist.

[@cathallooby8998]

The greatest opening sequence of all time. That score is absoloutley incredible.

[@rigelbellatrix8410]

Definitely one of the most meaningful, as it mentions The Daily Planet's reputation for clarity and truth, something that shames today's media.

[@adamdabs]

Agreed, this amazing opening sequence has stood the test of time.

[@mivvy3182]

Imo Scream comes very close.

[@CraigMcfly1985]

But no one does this phenomenal anthem like Johnny Williams.

[@haweater1555]

I digress.. Listen to this opening scene from a film over 20 years earlier. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqfRZ3anjJ2YbLc

[@ginad480]

John Williams is the greatest composer of movie soundtracks ever.

[@boingoboingo482]

Gina D and danny.elfman

[@coolcat6303]

I agree on John Williams. I'd follow him with James Horner, Jerry Goldsmith, Alan Silvestri, Hans Zimmer & Danny Elfman.

[@dinovelvet3240]

Jerry Goldsmith is the best far before the others (sorry i'm not English) first blood, papillon, congo, air force one, the ghost and the darkness...

[@radk88]

In the entire existence

[@martinmole6159]

@@coolcat6303don' t forget John Barry.

[@ZackaryBiagi]

I don't care what anyone says, but no movie, not even star wars, has a more epic and goose bump inducing intro than this. Greatest opening credits ever

[@maggs131]

Star wars can't touch this and I'm a massive star wars fan.

[@firestriker3580]

Not true

[@firestriker3580]

@@maggs131Star Wars CAN touch this and has beaten this six times

[@javierk2143]

Mortal Kombat has a dope intro! Jokes aside, this intro is amazing. So full of energy. Gives me hope I also like the opening of Lord Of The Rings, for different reasons

[@johnkuehl6163]

I agree one thousand percent ! Who on gods green earth could come up with such a phenomenal opening sequence !

[@Zaaaaaaaaaaaaa1]

RIP Richard Donner. You have left us with a legacy of cherished films.

[@watchforever1724]

Yeah he will be missed

[@rositawest4279]

Indeed!

[@rickdepaula]

No doubt about it. RIP

[@CdrChaos]

He will travel far, but he will never leave us, even in the face of his death.

[@jdeamaral]

All Hail Richard Donner

[@mattloaf7675]

OK. Who else gets goosebumps when Richard Donner’s name splits in the middle and that huge “WHOOSH” comes as Superman’s crest flies onto the screen? It gives me tears of happiness every single time.

[@slytex1952]

Only always!

[@user-ve5ln5le9y]

ME ME ME! When I was a kid when the shield comes on I was like ‘WHOOOOA HOO YEAHHhhh!!

[@harrisonneves6007]

I do. I love that sequence of every Superman movie I've ever seen

[@hotatp]

The sound effect sounds like a door slamming

[@jeffreyriley8742]

Yep. That's the moment.

[@PlasmaCoolantLeak]

When I saw it in the theatre, I remember how the audience cheered when the "S" appeared, and then applauded when the credits were done. Great stuff.

[@PlasmaCoolantLeak]

Oh, hell yes! When Chris (RIP) looked at the camera and smiled, cheers and applause.

[@jeremy14k]

PlasmaCoolantLeak You saw it in theaters!?!? That was all the way in 1978 😱

[@JustWasted3HoursHere]

The only experience I can equate it to is Avengers Endgame, as far as the end credits go. Some of the biggest cheers for the movie came when RDJ's name came up on screen. But, yeah, Superman was an experience that John Williams made happen.

[@viceregaldust3191]

Damn, I wish I got to experience that.

[@paulgentili1425]

Wish I coulda been there, wasn't born yet

[@KidSixXx]

I still tear up a little when the big S explodes onto the screen. I am like 45 years old.

[@richardmapa2585]

We ALL do.

[@reinaldofranco2966]

That’s the best part. When I was a kid and saw the S for the first I knew I was going to love Superman and now I’m 43 and I feel like that kid still.

[@megalon73]

I to et water in my eye's! I also give a huge salute to both, Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster. name when there mention.

[@victorgasior]

Still remember seeing this when it premiered on The Movie Channel in like 1980 when I was 8. Everytime I hear these opening credits, it takes me right back...

[@flankspeed]

Dude , I am 44 and I still hear this and extend my arm like I'm going to fly to work.... :oD

[@TroyTempest63]

Rest In Peace Richard Donner. 43 years later and still sets the benchmark.

[@tiattahiscupcakecandykatan2453]

Also a real superman death kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJrSf3aFpqmojMk

[@mordecaiesther3591]

STILL the greatest super hero movie EVER made ! Why ? Runs on 4 pistons … greatest superhero music soundtrack . Nobody has EVER beaten this super hero movie .

[@adammohamed..]

@@mordecaiesther3591 Totally agree.

[@CraigMcfly1985]

@@adammohamed.. has an iconic theme to boot by the legendary John Williams.

[@Justdisco2]

Damn right man/Mam A legacy that has a totally incredible as it legendary

[@gabrieleguida4634]

Without Richard Donner's Superman, we wouldn't have Burton's Batman, Singer's X-Men, Raimi's Spider-Man, Nolan's Dark Knight and Marvel Cinematic Universe Father of Cinecomics! ❤️❤️❤️

[@fachriade5071]

And DCEU 😁👍

[@dinahkyle3196]

Richard Donner was and always will be the founding father of the comic book cinematic universe

[@JotaP1n]

Such an underrated filmmaker.

[@AlexGarcia-ze4yg]

@@dinahkyle3196 He should've directed Superman Returns.

[@SiriuslyBlack7]

True,soo true!!!!❤

[@celt67]

Can you imagine them sitting John Williams down in the mid-70's and saying... "Right... we need a film score for a movie we're working on..Superman,,, it's got to be memorable "... He sits with a blank piece of paper and comes up with THIS ?

[@lynnwalker3503]

Right, celt. It's amazing! Probably my favorite, most memorable opening scene of a movie I can think of.

[@adventuressurvivalinthailand]

Id imagine like any musician he's probably got dozens or even hundreds of bits of music, ideas, riffs in his head. So he just starts working with the best parts and goes from there

[@gerardoruiz4969]

John Williams, the force is strong on this one hahah

[@svendeleeuw4914]

I can,t agree more...Many respect for Goldschmidt,Horner etc....But in my believe,There is only one true composer andere that's is Williams

[@GreybeardBiker1]

He actually based it on the old theme from the Adventures of Superman.

[@lukesmale24]

Avengers, The Dark Knight, Guardians of the Galaxy....meet the moment that gave you the authenticity to appear on the big screen

[@JudgeCraven]

Superman still makes all those other movies it’s bitch

[@Hardrive2677]

@@muricaneagle666 I agree that the superhero genre has gotten better over the years but endgame is far from perfection. The MCUs biggest flaw is that it has to involve cheap comedic moments in almost every scene. Take Thor for example. His character wasnt resonating with audiences until Ragnarok gave him a fresh new personality. Infinity War built on his character even more to only be completely shit on in endgame. Instead of giving him real development and an emotional arch to overcome his grief, his entire character was used for a laugh 90% of Endgame completely disregarding all nuanced storytelling possibilities that could have been introduced. If the MCU focused more on telling an emotional story rather than making the audience laugh the franchise would benefit significantly. Look what they did to Hulk. He was the biggest waste of the entire Avengers cast.

[@kylerpruitt1620]

‘MuricanEagle I love Infinity War and Endgame but just because Superman: The Movie is somebody else’s favorite movie doesn’t mean you should just shit on their opinions. You know Kevin Feige still considers this the best superhero movie of all time?

[@dynaztycrashdiet]

@@muricaneagle666 Avengers Endgame was a pile of gibberish shite. But that is my opinion so that must make me a retard asswipe🤣🤣🤣

[@TheDylandProductions]

IMHO, The Dark Knight is massively overrated (A remake of Heat? lol), The Avengers was mediocre at best (definitely not even top 10 Marvel films), and Guardians of the Galaxy is the worst movie ever made. Absolute rubbish. Turned me away from the rest of the garbage MCU too. The Chris Reeve & Brandon Routh Superman Films, along with the Keaton/Kilmer/Clooney Batman films are the ultimate Superhero films. I wish more were made like them - true to the original comics, with a few fun spins (Chris Reeve's Supes getting more powers, the 89 - 97 Batman films giving the caped crusader a darker, nearly all black outfit) Absolutely amazing. The closest Marvel ever came was the Sam Raimi Spider-Man trilogy with Tobey Maguire. Totally awesome films in their own right, although, in my opinion, just a tad short of the Superman and Batman films.

[@slimtinggs6600]

As a 16 year old, I can’t imagine how thrilling it would’ve been to watch this opening for the first time in the cinemas. Literally have goosebumps...

[@ushumgal-martu]

If you're 16 in 2021, u are in gen Z

[@TriviaChallenge]

I saw it at the cinema as a kid, and it was amazing. Everyone who watched it wanted to fly!

[@antduude]

I saw it opening day(and many times after) at Graumann's Chinese Theater, one of the biggest screens in Hollywood at the time. On that screen, in 70mm, it was absolutely breathtaking. When the red 'S' exploded onto the screen, audiences would just go nuts. Invariably, there was huge applause when the credits were over. Before the film had even begun! It's easy to be jaded these days, but in '78, it was absolutely groundbreaking technologically, and for audiences, a fantastic game-changer.

[@markdaly1903]

@@TriviaChallenge rip richard donner....

[@johnfitzpatrick3094]

I was there.

[@surinderjakhu4583]

Richard Donner and the producer took the film to elite levels. Back in its days .. this was an incredible piece of work.

[@gsb5859]

Still incredible, watch the scene when superman blasts through the ceiling ready to chase rockets … Christopher reeve making a man look like he can fly will forever endure.

[@rajnatalia4516]

If I was Richard Donner I would die a happy man knowing I created the greatest opening credits in cinema history!

[@eddierodrgz77]

Best thing he did was hire John WIlliams to conduct the score...

[@JustPippaNY]

@Quinn Brophy because this was the 70s. They still used opening credits back then.

[@NPA1001]

The Greatest Opening credits scene in history no arguments... I think Avengers Endgame now has the greatest closing credits scene,

[@Justdisco2]

I think you touched the tip of the iceberg.

[@damirbabic7403]

The curtains open...june 1938.the birth of the dc comics universe ❤❤❤❤❤

[@allenbagwell8034]

The audio effect that you don't get from watching this on KZbin is how they played the 1938 section in mono through the front speakers in the theater until the first blue titles appeared and slipped into surround-sound. Fantastic effect if you were seeing it in 1978.

[@benbovard9579]

Dude that must have been amazing.

[@keithkruger7270]

@@benbovard9579 I was 12 at the time...seeing it in the theatre felt like being strapped to the front of a rollercoaster.

[@AnotherTruth]

Yassss

[@AnotherTruth]

@@keithkruger7270 absolutely

[@curtisunit]

I remember it well. I was 9 and in shock when it happened. Everyone was. There’s were gasps and cheers. Really neat experience.

[@thunderbolt2145]

I was SO lucky to have been born in 1969 and able to witness classic films of the 70's in the theatre when they premiered. Star Wars, Superman, Raiders of the Lost Ark... truly epics for a kid.

[@user-em8ip9ys9z]

Me, too. '66.

[@bleep77]

Am I the only one who gets goosebumps and teary eyes watching these credits fly across the screen to the incredible epic score by John Williams?

[@ratclone]

Nope. You’re not the only one

[@watchforever1724]

No

[@mikeaninger7388]

Definitely not. It makes me smile and tear in a way NO other opening can do.

[@jeremycaughey1864]

@@mikeaninger7388 me too I would love to see this moive again showing in cinemas I would pay extra see it lol

[@verybadwordforname]

Yes. In this comment section full of people gushing about how great this late 70’s superhero flick was, you are the ONLY ONE who feels this way.

[@6120mcghee]

Only one Superman. Christopher Reeve.

[@anthonylewis2080]

6120mcghee : No argument there!.

[@westmcgee9320]

I won't argue since he's my favorite Superman but I'm quite fond of some of the others. George Reeves, who did it before Reeve, WAS Superman for me, for the longest time. I think Dean Cain was fantastic for his time. Cavill has seriously made his mark and has become my favorite living Superman. Even the Supergirl Superman gets a lot right...if hairy.

[@zabu7912]

You're absolutely right!

[@kieranfreed9591]

amen to that the 1 and only !!!

[@gochem3013]

He can defeat one Thanos. Josh Brolin.

[@achrisofalltrades5620]

Omg. I'm a 44yr old grown man. And this shit STILL gives me chills!! Man this opening credit sequence with the music is STILL awesome to watch. I remember these days when movie magic existed and movies like this we're hard to make and a spectacle when they came out. Now it's all CGI where anything is possible and we're numb to the spectacle and the magic is gone. We're spoiled in alot of ways today in terms of movies, but we lost that sense of awe, a movie like this gave us back in the day. Incredible music by John Williams 👍

[@ksol1460tv]

I'm over 60 and me too.

[@nopcshere6097]

There really is nothing like that music. It epitomizes the film and the character of Superman.

[@gerardoruiz4969]

Well magic is still there only that is differente! See Avatar for instance that movie is sheer magic!

[@jimmyo1123]

Man ik the feeling lol😂

[@DragonnHendrix]

Me too...I think the passion is gone...what a magic moments!!

[@queencancerous5332]

This movie is the reason why superhero movies exist today

[@daustin8888]

Much like Superman is the reasons superheroes exist today

[@JustinLodes]

My father is buried only about a hundred yards away from Mario Puzo. He’s the man who wrote the story and screenplay for Superman. He also wrote The Godfather. The Italian in me thinks that’s cool but the kid in me will always be grateful this man helped make my childhood so much more wonderful with this piece or cinematic artwork that will live on for as long as humanity exists. My father loved The Godfather also and I’m sure he wouldn’t have objected to having his resting place near Mario

[@LuisDiaz-zr2vs]

Even the "WHOOSHHH!!!! " gives me goosebumps.

[@amendmentavenger6182]

Remember, nothing like this had ever been done with opening credits before. These special effects were top of the line. When we first saw these letters slam into the screen with the John Williams theme blasting in our face, it blew the whole theater away!

[@samuelbarber6177]

It’s like a Superhero version of the previous year’s Star Wars, wich also opened with a John Williams score in space

[@watchforever1724]

Yeah I know

[@graceskerp]

Not just the credit run, the whole setup. Opening with B&W old style. A young voice reading from the first Superman comic book. The sweep into space. Then, the first credit wooooosh and the music shouts Superman! I swear you could hear lower jaws hitting the floor all over the theater.

[@MrJosealfonsoperez]

Yes, was awesome

[@mixedcuts1895]

It still looks great. So much passion from the actors, director, composer, visual effects team and sound artists.

[@St.Nosaint]

I agree John Williams is the Mozart of our time. So many great soundtracks, his catalog is superb.

[@josephstewart2821]

He really is, it pisses me off when you hear these snotty gatekeeper music snobs deriding his works as not being proper classical when deep down they know he will still be remembered hundreds of years into the future for his great scores, and even if not centuries it will certainly be far longer then their worthless opinions.

[@Marjopolo302]

Insane. Imagine, getting films and going , yep , I got this.....

[@hq9344]

Yeah man, he is incredible. There is no one like him. I do like Danny Elfman too

[@watchforever1724]

@@josephstewart2821I think some people will appreciate him if he passes away one day

[@watchforever1724]

@@TheChurlishBoor I mean he’s still with us

[@SonicLegends989]

We’ll never forget Christopher Reeves. You’ll be remembered as a legend!

[@jvgreendarmok]

The extra S is for Superman? 😉

[@GenEXReviews]

I tear up every time I hear this. It always takes me back to being a kid. Arguably the Greatest Movie Theme Ever.

[@MVR326]

Agreed.. I saw it with my friends and our mothers Christmas vacation in a very full theater... So much fun

[@lakeyshagregory9897]

Me too I am tearing up now

[@chantellepaighton9698]

YEP!

[@berserkley]

me too, my friend

[@nathancruz9172]

1:27-1:34 me too.

[@abdulqudz89]

more than 40 years later and this film is still a timeless, epic, classic film.

[@jamiemannell4957]

Well said :)

[@Aquascape_Dreaming]

Closer to 40 years really.

[@guidomoyaserrel937]

Muchaas vendicioned

[@michaelbeacom8277]

I watched it again last night. No one has cell phones and you don't miss it or even think about it. Timeless indeed.

[@billolsen4360]

Yup! "And he is, BY FAR, the fastest TYPIST I've ever seen."

[@watchforever1724]

So goes Richard donner the director as he died July 5th ,2021 at the age 91 (1930-2021)

[@troyandrew6154]

And christopher reeve

[@jrsindone]

Dear James Gunn, now that you're in charge of the DCU, and if you've by chance have come back to this video to revisit the greatest intro of ANY Superman film, please please please, bring back John Williams' theme back for "Superman Legacy" 🙏

[@truth1128]

For those of us lucky enough to see these opening credits in the theater, it was an experience like nothing to date in 1978. Truly amazing! Thank you for posting this gem!

[@blacbraun]

Well except for Star Wars that came out a year and half earlier.

[@dvon1097]

My dad tells me all the time that people in his theater started crying and cheering when the S came on the screen in the theater. Now thats magical cinema

[@teawithme709]

I remember.

[@saturninhabitant]

Well, I saw a screening of Superman 1978 at the Paramount Theater in Austin, Texas, in 2018. And it was a 35mm copy. People at the theater (including me!) went nuts when the opening credits started to roll!

[@macmiles278]

I remember the opening credits in the New Utrecht theater 1978 in Brooklyn NY they came at you. You could almost feel them.

[@KeiFox]

Times the audiences cheered like never before: -The S appearing and the opening theme starting. -The opening credits finish. -Clark opens his shirt to reveal the S underneath. -Superman rescues Lois and catches the helicopter. -Superman flies over the planet and smiles to the audience as the closing credits begin. Hollywood just doesn't make movies like that anymore.

[@ratclone]

Amen!!!!

[@daustin8888]

Wish I could have seen that

[@orangie8426]

Easy miss.. i got you... you got me???!!! Who's got YOU!!!!!!??????!!!

[@dreamlandnightmare]

Avengers: Endgame.

[@gregorysagegreene]

I believe Martin Scorcese said that too.

[@bigtastetaco7591]

No Superman movie score will ever surpass the one by John Williams. To this day it is inspiring and timeless.

[@JohnnyJonestown]

Not to mention it will never be topped.

[@watchforever1724]

Yeah timeless

[@warlaker]

One of the best opening titles. The audience actually cheered them. RIP Richard Donner. Poignantly a lot of the names are gone now

[@Locktwiste72]

Greatest. Movie. Opening. Ever.

[@wesbervig4773]

Locktwiste72 DAMN RIGHT!!!

[@fcoprado929]

Wes Bervig yes I agree

[@Ironman351]

fcoprado929 actually Star Wars is the best opening

[@just2coolkk]

dont know if its the best... but it is iconic and epic....

[@BluesFanUK_]

@ Ironman351 Is it fuck.

[@balderdashman]

Filmmakers out there... THIS is how you do a superhero flick! Still remains untouched after all these years. Spider-2 with Tobey comes a close second.

[@datdumbdude4126]

That's subjective. Watchmen is a superhero movie. Deadpool also qualifies as a superhero movie. Both have different atmospheres compared to this film yet both are also superhero genre. Plus I think you mean Warner Bros. Because Disney wants to know your location.

[@gboot2786]

I think Tim Burton’s Batman with Danny Elfman’s score in that opening was kick-ass. It was singing to you, 🎼 “ He is the Batman.”

[@thunderbird1921]

Toy Story 2 brilliantly pays homage to this opening in its opening credits!

[@kendallrivers1119]

@@datdumbdude4126 Disney's MCU is a mess and has not really been quality since the first couple of movies being Iron Man and The Incredible Hulk. Few exceptions were The Avengers, Civil War and most of Inifinity War though the way they did The Hulk was unforgivable.

[@billolsen4360]

I am SO HAPPY George Lucas didn't make this film...now we'd have extra creatures, extra planets, extra villains all over the place, lol.

[@lizmorganjake]

Sad that so many of the people listed in these credits are no longer with us 😢 They left us a masterpiece.

[@watchforever1724]

Except the actor for lex Luthor

[@supercool2999]

@@watchforever1724 and Jimmy Olsen and Miss Teschmacher

[@watchforever1724]

@@supercool2999 yeah I know

[@BaySean]

​@@watchforever1724we hope that Tom Felton could play Lex Luthor.

[@watchforever1724]

@@BaySean probably for the next interpretation

[@matthewpaul6904]

Richard Donner has passed away. What a filmography he left us to appreciate for years and years

[@watchforever1724]

Yeah sad he is gone

[@watchforever1724]

@Nathan Longacre yeah I know

[@watchforever1724]

@Nathan Longacre I said it in my comment

[@moriellymoproblems7842]

This score should've won an Academy Award.

[@johnfitzpatrick3094]

It lost to Midnight Express. Wtf?

[@dnasty312]

So should have the Production Design and the Cinematography at least nominated

[@cripplehawk]

@MB IT was actually John Williams score of Raiders of the Lost Ark that lost to Chariots of Fire (Chariots and Raiders came out in 1981, Empire came out in 1980).

[@michaelbeacom8277]

I have come to the conclusion that Academy Awards should only be voted on and given 10 years after the film comes out, to remove the "popularity contest" element. Want to see the best score of 1978? Go into a crowd sometime and say "Quick, someone hum the theme to Midnight Express! Anyone? Okay, how does the theme to Superman go?"-- nuff said.

[@rigelbellatrix8410]

I guess three Oscars in four years for one film composer would have been too much for the Academy to recognize.

[@LPTV84]

The best Superhero theme song. Nothing says HEROIC than John Williams' score for Superman: The Movie

[@pedrodemena]

pablolara125 John Williams is a superhero!

[@kevinpradhan9925]

Star Wars!

[@andresmiguel2573]

Indiana Jones.

[@73fug]

RIP Richard Donner, you made me believe a man could fly, as a child I jumped off the back of the sofa wearing a tea towel and survived without any broken bones, I thank you.

[@atrac88]

What an incredibly inspired opening. It’s a masterpiece.

[@graceskerp]

A meeting of the Superman production staff: "That opening of Star Wars was really something. Think we can top it?" And by god they did.

[@dean8842]

"You will believe that a man can fly." And you know what? We did...

[@michaelbeacom8277]

Still do. When they made the Graphic Novel Kingdom Come, they dedicated it to Christopher Reeve (he was paralyzed but still alive) saying "To Christopher Reeve- Who Still makes us believe a Man Can Fly."- I can't even type that without choking up.

[@dean8842]

@@michaelbeacom8277 Somebody must be chopping onions cuz my eyes are watering something fierce.

[@michaelbeacom8277]

@@dean8842 🧡

[@Flackack]

New Year's Eve, 1978. My mom was pregnant with my soon to be younger brother. My parents took me out to dinner and then to see Superman. Sort of one last moment between the three of us. Who could ever forget that evening?

[@michaelastorga3187]

45:years later. Still the greatest opening in cinema history. A rare occasion when the villain intro comes before the main character

[@JohnnyJonestown]

Marlon Brando???

[@richardsantalone9380]

​@@JohnnyJonestown No Johnny, Gene Hackman. 😂

[@harpiyon]

Brando & Hackman were big stars at the time. Reeve was a newbie. This movie was his big breakthrough. For the others it was just another paycheck. Brando got a particularly good deal: For just 12 days of shooting, he got $3.7 million + 11.75% of the box office gross profits, totaling $19 million. Hackman got 2 million $. Reeves, who carried the entire movie, got 250,000 $.

[@richardgregory3684]

I remember going to see Superman at the cinema. The lights went down. It starts out with the little black and white bit, then the Daily Planet globe: the music slowly built up and all of a sudden WHAM the titles fly at you and John William's glorious music thunders from the speakers espescially when the S symbol shows up It was the film that EVERYONE at school was talking about. Magical.

[@W.Stryker]

Christopher Reeve will always be superman

[@preving]

+William Stryker no matter what anybody says: Gene Hackman IS Lex Luthor. He acted that PERFECTLY!

[@W.Stryker]

+preving agreed. Kevin Spacy wasn't a good lex luthor

[@stevenwatchorn9816]

+preving The nearly miraculous tightrope walk he made was allowing Luthor to play almost as a comedy team with two other terrific actors (Valerie Perrine and Ned Beatty) but still be a credible and threatening opponent for Superman. I don't know of anyone who could have pulled off that duplex better than Hackman, and very few as well (Spacey was able to get the menace, but came off as only resentful and whiny in other scenes).

[@W.Stryker]

Steven Watchorn I agree with that statement

[@freddyramirez9934]

+William Stryker Neither was Jesse Eisenberg. I didn't like him until he became bald.

[@michaelharris169]

Such a stylish beginning to a film. For me, the greatest opening credits ever. When the “Superman” title swooshes, and Williams’ score, gives me goosebumps every time.

[@QueenBoadicea]

No matter how often I see this, I always forget the opening sequence. That drawn curtain takes me by surprise every time.

[@vigilante_bardock2518]

I cried when I first saw this. Rest In Peace Margot Kidder and Christopher Reeve. To me, you will always be the best portrayals of this legendary couple.

[@BaySean]

Hope they will haunt you in your dreams in a friendly way.

[@MoviesTubeYou0675]

@@BaySean funny you say that as I read your comment. Because a few weeks ago I had this random dream that I had met Christopher Reeve at a convention-like at a comic con-and in this meeting he was not paralyzed at all. He made this very rare appearance there and I had gotten an autograph from him and I told him that you’re the greatest Superman ever. He smiled and shook my hand and said thank you.

[@BaySean]

@@MoviesTubeYou0675 yes and Henry Cavill recently turned 30 in May this year.

[@smichelle65]

@@MoviesTubeYou0675 😥😪Aww..

[@watchforever1724]

Yeah that’s sad

[@SheldonAdama17]

THE definitive superhero movie. No comparison.

[@Charbear25]

Still gives me chills...best opening ever!!! RIP Christopher Reeve

[@VeegovonDOOM]

This movie was a master class in film making. The opening is just more evidence of that. Notice how the words are flying towards the screen and when the /S\ pops up it comes from out of the screen. Starting in black and white and then transitioning , the music , everything is calculated and it works.

[@JotaP1n]

All DC failures is a prove of how difficult is to write and direct a good Superman movie. And Dhomer did in 1978. It’s just crazy.

[@watchforever1724]

@@JotaP1nthis is back then and most stuff back around this time period is when Dc became known for their superhero movies

[@kascnef]

Rip Richard Greenberg who helped create the effects for the intro as well as the teaser trailer

[@hayatebune]

The most exciting opening sequence of movies history. Adventure, Strength, kindness, Romance...all are packaged here. Reeve doesn't never leave us alone forever. from Japan with love.

[@aljenx829]

Imagine being in the cinema in 1978 watching this. Wow!

[@dogdam2002]

Goosebumps back then for sure !

[@lordgoro]

I was, and 8years old

[@tomloft2000]

i was as a 20 year old college student.i thought i was going to be sucked into the screen.

[@gilraybaker826]

Imagine?

[@blockaderunner]

I went with my older brothers and family, I was 3 I think. And I remember later on that night, my two brothers in bed (we were poor), across the street, in a cove, a house was on fire (so surreal I know but I swear to God, it happened, I mean the house was totally engulfed in flames - it was scary yet being so young I didn't know to Be scared so I wasn't) and my brothers giggling and laughing made hand-puppets on the wall against the flash of light of the fire from the house across the street. One of my brothers is a straight-up genius CEO in tech. They were very creative and I felt safe with them and they made the movies we went to see better.

[@THEJUKE777]

Today’s young generation is missing out a lot. They will never experience this kind of magic in music or movies like the older generation did.

[@SeansModelBuilds]

Did you see Superman Returns in theatres 15 years ago? That was the first Suoerman Movie I saw in theatres.

[@tctyt]

This time, I'm showing it to my younger brothers the real magic of Hollywood on this one.

[@covert0overt_810]

@@SeansModelBuilds yah i did. it was long and boring…

[@covert0overt_810]

its by design. Movies now just show destruction and sadness/anxiety. -. Movies used to be escapist and inspiring. now they’re just giant post modernist propaganda tools

[@billolsen4360]

"Oh WOW!" my teen says when he hears music played on actual instruments.

[@AldenRDavis]

"In the decade of the 1930s, even the great city of Metropolis was not spared the ravages of the world-wide depression. In the times of fear and confusion, a job of informing the public was the responsibility of the Daily Planet, a great metropolitan newspaper, whose reputation for clarity, and truth has become a symbol of hope for the city of Metropolis."

[@SilverHawkVaquero]

R.I.P Margot Kidder. "Lois Lane" forever.

[@BaySean]

May this bikini babe actress reunite with Reeve and Brando in heaven.. :,( Must cry for them both.

[@vanbuuren5555]

OMG i dint know...Rest In Peace

[@mrsportsguy134]

:(

[@michaelvanderkley1]

Agree!

[@davidcheyrol4905]

She s not dead Margot kider

[@lowbridge7070]

I am one of the lucky many who saw Superman when it originally came out in the movie theaters in 1978. I was 9 years old. I was the right age at the right time to see this movie. It was indeed magical. Saw it with my then best friend (same age as me). The one thing we shared was our love for the movies. We were both fanatics about the movies. We talked, read, ate, drank, and slept the movies. And we went to the movies together once a week, every week for a lot of years from the 1970s-1980s. When we weren't going to the movies, we were watching more movies on his tv at his apartment. My friend always chose the movie we would go see. I didn't mind. I loved the movie theater going experience in itself. There was no particular reason my friend chose Superman to see that week. We tried to see every brand new movie that came out as best we could regardless of the genre (my friend loved horror, I preferred comedy) the plot and storyline, who starred in it, or critics reviews. And Superman just happened to be one of the new movies that just came out. We liked Superman so much, after seeing it for the first time, we stayed in the theater to see it again. Going to the movies every week with my best friend in the 1970s-1980s is among my most fondest, happiest memories of not only my childhood, but also of my entire life.

[@watchforever1724]

Awesome

[@watchforever1724]

I was 7 years old when I saw this on dvd

[@camschuster5947]

Story time. Back in 2012 my Roomate and just installed a 7.2 surround sound system, he said “let’s do Top Gun opening” I replied, “a valiant effort, but I got something that will blow the windows off this place and make you feel invincible...” We stretched those speakers to this epicness...

[@NealX]

Superman deserves a theme like this. Superman needs a theme like this. Superman IS a theme like this.

[@toniaraujorocha]

Best theme ever, best Superman ever...

[@CaptGage]

A friend of mine almost immediately disliked the whole musical score. That was the vinyl record, and for a few years I've had the CD. Yes, an appropriately soaring theme. It's the ideal musical version of "It's a bird! It's a plane...!"

[@davidolden971]

Literally! John Williams intentionally build the theme using the cadence of these words as a starting point... "Up up and away su-per-man Up up and away Superman!.." Brilliant technique. :)

[@BaySean]

that one was the first Superman movie..

[@DocRunaway]

I might be wrong but the Williams's theme sounds a lot like the 1950's TV series theme. I mean the 3-note leit motiv.

[@mr.j.perala2861]

This is still one of the greatest opening title sequences in the whole movie history.

[@rickygillette209]

RIP Richard Donnor 1930-2021 He made us believe a man can fly.

[@fersan1395]

Christopher Reeve and Richard Donner, rest in peace and thanks, two real heros!! 😭😭😭😭😭😭👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@damienspectre4231]

still no superman movie openings since 1978 has been able to top this magnificent opening credits! amazing! John Williams is a Musical Genius!

[@thingsicantfind9545]

Superman returns is the best

[@paname7521]

Lego Qui-Gon Jinn that I agree, careful when battling darth maul

[@davidh9844]

One of the greatest opening scenes of all time! 40 years later, it's still fresh and spectacular. RIP Chris, you made so many people happy!

[@SnailMaster]

3:51. I love that musical bit when John Williams' credit comes on the screen as that spark decides to say hello to the camera. John Williams, you truly are a legendary composer.

[@lisa-el3db]

I remember this wonderful opening. Huge theater, packed full. The style, the music, omg, you could hear a pin drop, the audience was in awe of this wonderful opening. I'll never forget it.

[@Jlove3184]

I can only imagine what it was like in the theater when this opening scene played. I know the audience erupted in excitement when this played.

[@squishmallowfan025]

Yes London Odeon in 1978. I think the movie I saw before it in a theater was The Cat from Outer Space. This was groundbreaking.

[@ericshipp9712]

Christopher Reeves he is the greatest superman All time I know everybody agrees with me

[@rossprivate5456]

poor bastard didnt deserve his end of life

[@operation1968]

@@rossprivate5456 I know it's very sad. But in the end of the day he was also a real superman in real life. That makes him enough of a hero for me

[@ryansylvan9277]

George Reeves played superman in the 50s TV show. Christopher Reeve played superman in the movies.

[@finaltouchstudio_]

When the curtains disappeared and the music build up, that was the moment that superhero movies were brought to the modern age and cinema was changed forever

[@billolsen4360]

And every superhero movie that came after it played second fiddle to this film.

[@juanjoestepacerda3759]

R.I.P. Richard Donner July the 5th 2021: now you can fly with Superman

[@guypeate3628]

I love the opening credits to every Superman movie In 1978, words came flying out of the screen/camera In 2006, words flew into the screen/camera

[@Gornonatory]

In 1987, they...uh...haha.

[@elderofzion]

that june 1938 opening was a stroke of genius

[@michaelc.6532]

Pa šutiraj deeečkooo!!! I totally agree. It showed the "birth" of Superman from the original comics and tied it in to the movie roughly 40 years later. The innocence of the kids voice and then the music comes up and to me it's the best opening to a movie ever.

[@braingers]

June 27th 1938..... birth of my Mother.

[@TheRuddster95]

@@braingers happy late birthday to her!

[@solidaudioTV]

Agreed. I'm convinced that little girl's voice is the same one that voiced Lucy in The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe cartoon from around the same time period, though I haven't been able to find it in the credits yet.

[@timothy3732]

@@michaelc.6532 Oh, that explains it! Because I never got it before. Though the curtain is kinda weird.

[@ianscott9596]

The best music opening of all time

[@jasonraczkowski6001]

hands down

[@sventrogrlic6370]

as a little kid in the early 80's I woke up in the early morning at 5:00 am just to put the VHS cassette into the old recorder and watch the movie......

[@thewewguy8t88]

batman was pretty good too :)

[@Rlotpir1972]

Best one since Star Wars.

[@YTWarrior100]

Even better then Star Wars?

[@kt9166]

I remember being in the theater for this in 1978. I was not a kid any more, but when John Williams' music announced SUPERMAN, everyone in the theater applauded. And by the time the movie ended, we did indeed believe a man could fly. Thank you, John, Richard Donner, and most especially, Chris Reeve. There will never really be another Superman.

[@MGR1900]

The only film I’ve ever seen where you were physically exhausted right after the opening credits. Pretty righteous!

[@willieholmes1483]

I saw this in the theater NINE times JUST for the opening!

[@nathancruz9172]

Cool 😎

[@SilkMiller]

This is one of those pieces of music that cries out to be played AS LOUD AS POSSIBLE.

[@richardmapa2585]

Oh my God, Yes!!!!!

[@Mike-ky9jz]

I was 11 when this came out. Never forget the overwhelming excitement of this experience...and the music was just epic.

[@farhanrahman8361]

Excitement, real joy and happiness that’s why I loved those decades so much

[@wingchundragon]

My wife doesnt understand why I watch this opening, with lights off, sound up! It brings be back to being a child watching this in theaters and in awe! Same with Star Wars. John Williams the greatest RIP Richard Donner

[@watchforever1724]

To be honest the music still amazing decades later

[@obscureentertainment8303]

Imagine a Batman v Superman with Christopher Reeve and Michael Keaton.

[@paulwalker3758]

+Obscure Entertainment And a plot which makes sense.

[@lagunagil]

+Paul Walker Made plenty of sense. Sorry it went over your head.

[@paulwalker3758]

+lagunagil oh I know what it was trying to do. It just failed rather miserably. There was plenty of enjoyable stuff in the film, but it tried to do too much and ended up not doing much of it well.

[@dvader1342]

MARTHA!!!!

[@andrewkhorsand2972]

Christopher Reeve and *Christian Bale*

[@lizmorganjake]

John Williams is one of the best composers of all time.

[@Rlotpir1972]

I agree 100%. He takes classical music and soundtracks to the extreme.

[@Thesimon221]

I I coundnt agree with u more

[@whatup6955]

lizmorganjake he’s so awesome

[@IloveElsaofArendelle]

Hans Zimmer's Man of Steel theme is so bland and forgettable, I can't even hum it even if my life depended on!

[@penzlic]

Those credits still holds after 43 years.

[@pace1719]

drive-in 1978. I was 9. Will never forget this opening, ever.

[@canadianmike711]

This year is actually the movies 40th anniversary

[@austinpearce5442]

Mike MacDonald I really wish Donner would’ve been able to finish what he started with Superman II. The salkinds screwed up by firing him

[@tigerbabe7777]

Austin Pearce at least we have the Richard Donner cut

[@redsabreanakin]

if you look at Fathom events schedule, they are releasing this in theaters on Nov 25th and 27th. Waited so long for this, to see this in a theater again. hopefully a viewing in your area.

[@tigerbabe7777]

redsabreanakin I’d wanna go see it but knowing my luck, it’s probably not near me

[@sha11235]

They should do a rerelease of this film with new added footage.

[@abneryokum]

Agreed. This opening title sequence is brilliant moviemaking. And how the hell did Midnight Express win the Oscar for Best Original Score in 1978?! This is perhaps the best musical score of any film, let alone films from 1978.

[@abneryokum]

trha2222 I don't think that Braveheart is even James Horner's best score. I'd take Legends of the Fall over it, for example.

[@abneryokum]

trha2222 Genius is pain.

[@ohsheelamakeme]

I'd have to agree and I think Jurassic park is Williams' second best score, I was listening to it the other day, it's such an incredible piece.

[@abneryokum]

+trha2222 Good trolls strive for variety. Two reference to OTC drugs shows a lack of creativity. Hopefully you'll learn to step up your game and join the majors.

[@abneryokum]

+trha2222 Certainly not yours.

[@robertcotgrave5920]

Still after all these years it takes my breath away. RIP to all those amazing actors who are no longer with us. I really do believe a man can fly.

[@siegfried7020]

RIP Richard Donner. You made the best Superman movie ever. Superman came to take you away into a better world. I wish you a good new life in Heaven.

[@gobrewersgo7547]

Trying to imagine what it would've felt like sitting in a movie theater, and hearing this for the first time.

[@rucksackzen]

I am so fortunate that I don’t have to imagine. I was a 13-year-old kid.

[@theamazin]

I was 15 and I will never forget it. The title sequence alone was worth the ticket price.

[@chooseyourpoison5105]

I don't have to imagine. I was 15 and it was freaking incredible.

[@stevenwatchorn9816]

It is really remarkable how the music can actually seem to say the name "Superman" and have it not be cheesy, but rather seem an integral part of the theme. Williams is a master.

[@Mrd9960]

Yeah I always thought the same thing, the music really does say the name "Superman" Williams is a genius, the greatest theme song ever!!!

[@GeneralHeavy]

John is truly a god in music

[@mydogskips2]

+trha2222 Okay, I guess I'll ask; what kind of genius are you, in what area?

[@davidsimmons6307]

Richard Donner felt the exact same way, and says so in one of the most recent documentaries on the Director's Cut of Superman II, I believe.

[@natalieps2387]

It blows me away how john William's comes up w/ such memorable themes. Donners superman is the gold standard of all superhero films. He set the bar so high. Its perfection

[@etong2002001]

RIP to this film's director, Richard Donner. His creativity, imagination, and efforts are what make this movie so special to this very day.

[@psytrancedj]

I just got back from watching Superman: The Movie on the big screen for the first time since I saw it in the theater upon its initial release and it has lost none of its power. The opening credits on the big screen backed by John Williams' stunning score is so magical... it makes you feel like your flying.

[@randaljbatty]

I love the whole opening sequence, the B&W curtains opening slowly on some theater, as if we're all about to view a regular serial of Superman. It cuts to the child reading reading from the first Superman comic, which blends into a real-life looking Daily Planet building. The camera pans upward toward the moon and beyond. Then we get those really amazing 3-D like credits and the Superman march theme music by John Williams. I think I was 25 years old, but that opening opened a lot of buried memories, and I found my eyes glassing over. Whoever conceived those opening moments really knew his stuff. I was grabbed.

[@stevenwatchorn9816]

+Thor Odinson It is a terrific moment when the first credit pushes through the small square screen into the wide Panavision screen. The first moment when the film says: we're here to be BIG.

[@blockmasterscott]

I was a little boy when I saw this in the theater. Quite honestly, the opening credits were just as awesome as the actual movie. I cannot think of any better opening credits with maybe the exception of 1981 Conan the Barbarian with the sword forging.

[@GinolasSon]

Easily the greatest opening credits ever committed to film.