“Superman: The Movie” director Richard Donner has passed away, aged 91.
Having directed the horror film “The Omen,” Donner was approached by Ilya and Alexander Salkind to helm their new Superman project.
As many fans will know, the relationship between the producers and Donner deteriorated over time, and the director was fired after completing “Superman: The Movie” and replaced for the sequel, which he’d already nearly completed.
Donner will be remembered as one of Hollywood’s great directors, having filmed movies like “Lethal Weapon” and “The Goonies”.
Our condolences to his family and friends.
In 2001, ahead of the release of the “Superman: The Movie” DVD, the Superman Homepage had the great privilege of interviewing Richard Donner.
R.I.P. \S/
He was a master storyteller. Cinema as a whole owes him much. But every superhero film since 1978 that has truly succeeded, followed his example of knowing what to laugh with and what to take seriously. And more specifically to Superman, I once saw an interview where he said that any film or television project with the character ultimately has to feel like we are reconnecting with an old friend; while I don’t think that means telling the same story or style over an over, I do think it holds true. Thank you, Mr. Donner, for being such a kind… Read more »
mr. donner is probably, most definitely on this site, most remembered for stm. but i grew up loving movies/shows that he produced, directed like lethal weapon, danger island, goonies, conspiracy theory, get smart, perry mason, gilligan’s island, banana splits, twilight zone, etc. he also pushed for great practical effects which still hold up in most of his work. he was a great talent, and his daughter is doing a great job making stuff i like today. rip sir.
Rest In (Super) Power, Dick Donner. You made us all believe a man could fly.
Thank you Mr. Donner for your great contribution to our childhood. Send our regards to Chris (Reeve), Margot (Kidder), Ned (Beatty) and Tom (Mankiewicz). Rest in paradise, Sir… you will be missed.
This is truly a sad day for all of us Superman fans as well as movie fans. Richard Donner was a master at his craft. Making us laugh with movies like the Goonies, and Scrooged. Kept us in suspense with his Lethal Weapon films, and frightened the audience with the Omen film. The wonder, mystery, romance and tale of enchantment from his film Ladyhawke. And with his star, the late great Christopher Reeve, directed the camera and made us all “believe a man can fly” in both of his Superman films. His legacy that he leaves behind will be an… Read more »
This is sad to hear. Richard Donner brought us a Superman movie which mesmerized me when I was a child and gave me appreciation for the character when I became an adult. Thank you Mr. Donner for your contribution to the world of filmmaking and for making “Superman: The Movie.” – Mr. Donner, please Rest In Peace!
He was a very competent director with several classics under his belt. The entirety of modern super-hero cinema owes its existence to this man. Even though he had retired from directing for a while now, his loss is not insignificant. He will be missed.
I can’t imagine my childhood or my life without Superman The Movie. I will be forever greatful to Richard Donner, Tom Mank’, Christopher Reeve and the rest of the cast and crew for not only putting Superman up on the big screen but bringing him to life in such a wonderful and respectful and fun way.
Mr.Donner thank you for making me believe that a man can fly and that maybe in a way, we can to.
Thank you Mr. Donner for everything. Your movies stand the test of time and will be treasured forever … Rest in peace sir
Just a coupla Weeks ago, he said He would be helmimg the 5th Lethal Weapon Film, which got me excited reuniting with Mel Gibson and Danny Glover again. That would have been a blast. Most importantly though…he was truly a Part of my childhood and made me believe along with Christopher Reeve that a man not only can fly, but magic can happen on the silver screen. My deepest condolonces to the Donner family. Thank you Mr. Donner. You are gone but sure you won’t be forgotten. Ever. Your place is cemented in the Valhalla of Super hero Films and… Read more »
Very sad news. Every comic book film that has come out since owes a debt of gratitude to Richard Donner. What an absolute shame it is he didn’t stay on for more sequels. The Reeve franchise I think would have ended up much different, and much better if he had. May he rest in peace.
It is hard to “Like” the report when it speaks about such a big loss.