Gene Hackman’s Lex Luthor Shines as the Ultimate Manipulator in Superman II

by

For the first time after Gene Hackman passed away, I ventured into the Superman universe. As a Hoosier man, I was well-acquainted with his uplifting portrayal in the underdog sports movie Hoosiers, but for some reason, I hadn’t explored the film series where he became most iconic. Now that I’ve finished watching Superman II and have witnessed Hackman in the role twice, I feel ready to acknowledge him as the finest actor to portray Lex Luthor.

It’s quite daring, indeed, considering James Gunn’s upcoming Superman movie this summer and Nicholas Hoult as the antagonist in it. Despite my previous musings on how Superman II underplayed General Zod, I’m eager to argue that Gene Hackman might just be the finest actor ever to portray the legendary DC villain.

Gene Hackman’s Lex Luthor Best Highlights The Character’s Biggest Superpower, Manipulation

Fans of comic books often highlight Lex Luthor’s intelligence as the key factor that makes him superior to most superheroes. While it’s clear he has the mental prowess to outsmart many heroes, I believe this is simply one aspect of what truly sets him apart. Luthor excels in manipulation and can persuade almost anyone to embrace his beliefs and plots.

To enjoy watching the classic film “Superman II”, consider subscribing to Max! Their monthly plans start at just $9.99 with an Ads option, giving you access to a variety of content. Plus, with three additional tiers to choose from upon signing up for Max, you’ll have the freedom to select the best plan that suits your needs. And if you prefer, pre-pay for a full year and save up to 20%! Take advantage of this deal now!

In the movie “Superman II”, we witness him skillfully controlling Zod and other Kryptonians. His arrival was significant because he knew that Superman is Jor-El’s son, a fact that enrages them since Jor-El had imprisoned them in the Phantom Zone for years. However, what Lex Luthor demands in exchange for this information seems insignificant to these extraterrestrial invaders – he wants Australia.

It makes me wonder if Zod ever truly required Lex Luthor’s assistance in the first place. If Luthor hadn’t managed to escape prison, it seems likely that the Kryptonian invaders would have eventually encountered Superman and figured out who his dad was anyway.

Nevertheless, Luthor managed to persuade them that he was essential for this scheme, and if successful, he would have reigned over an entire continent by betraying someone he once attempted to discard. Fortunately for the world, his plan failed, leaving him stranded in the Arctic Circle when it collapsed. However, had Superman not been present, Luthor might have executed his plan flawlessly.

His Ability to Quickly And Shamelessly Turn On A Dime To Save Himself Is Fantastic

One scene I particularly enjoy in “Superman II” is when Superman deceptively makes the Kryptonians believe he lost his powers, while in truth, it was they who had been deprived of their abilities. Lex Luthor, seeing through the ruse, cleverly fabricates a story suggesting he knew about the plan from the start and delivered an exceptional acting performance to further Superman’s evil plot.

More On Superman

6 Ways Christopher Reeve Became A Real-Life Superman

He’s incredibly deceitful, and Superman isn’t the least bit fooled by his tactics, but it’s hard not to admire his shamelessness in trying. In reality, Lex Luthor is a survivor above all else, and as soon as he senses the situation turning against him, he will switch allegiances and seek out the most advantageous opportunity to reclaim power.

It’s quite amusing to think that such self-assurance might come naturally when breaking out from a top-tier prison only requires your girlfriend to pilot a hot air balloon above the compound and lower a ladder. The absurdity of this scheme, reminiscent of the over-the-top qualities in Superman II, is what makes it so entertaining. However, if such an event were to unfold in the next Superman movie, it would undoubtedly stir quite a reaction from audiences.

Fundamentally, Gene Hackman’s characterization of Lex Luthor effectively demonstrates why he is such a sinister figure at heart. Under the guise of nobility and altruism for humanity, especially when confronting Superman, he seemingly works for the greater good. However, in reality, his actions are self-serving, aimed at amassing power. He lacks genuine morals, only acting to preserve himself, which makes him difficult to empathize with.

Lex Luthor’s True Power Lies In His Ability To Influence, And Manipulate Lesser Minds Like Superman

Watching Superman II, it struck me that if Clark Kent weren’t so gullible and somewhat slow-witted, many of Lex Luthor’s plans might not have succeeded. After all, when you possess near invincibility and can tackle any issue by brute force, intelligence isn’t as crucial, and you can be more trusting of people’s motives. Superman is no slouch in the brains department, but I must admit I underestimated Lex Luthor’s genius.

Does Gene Hackman’s portrayal of Lex Luthor suggest an invincible plot device, allowing him to gather essential information to counter Superman effectively? Absolutely. What makes his performance particularly captivating is that it never gives the impression that he doubts his ability to extricate himself from any situation he finds himself in.

Among the character interpretations in superhero films, Kevin Spacey’s Luthor portrayal in Hackman’s version stands out as an exceptional standard that is challenging to surpass. While other actors may emulate or replicate his performance, I believe we witnessed a pinnacle of excellence too soon in Lex Luthor’s cinematic history. It has been difficult for any actor since then to match the mastery with which he breathed life into the character. Although there is always a chance that another performer might impress me when they assume the villain’s role, I am quite convinced it won’t happen.

If you’re excited to relive or discover “Superman II” anew, you can stream it on Max. As I delve deeper into the Christopher Reeve series, I’m cautioned by some colleagues to adjust my expectations for the rest of the films as the initial two have already been unveiled.

Read More

2025-05-18 21:08