One of the photos below is from the Warner Bros. museum cast reunion party on May 1, 2001. See more photos here.
29 July 2010
My good friend Julian Adderley recently visited the Superman-The Movie Kent farm filming location in Canada. Watch his "Triumph Over Smallville" featurette above. I wish to thank Julian for shooting and editing this very special piece of history -- I was quite moved by it. Enjoy! Want to know more about the truck shown in the featurette? Request to join the CapedWonder™ Facebook group! Julian also shot some great photos of the Kent farm. Three are below. More will be posted later. Please visit "Return to Smallville".
There was a Hot Toys figure announcement today on their Facebook page, and it was not a Christopher Reeve Superman, but an Enter the Dragon: Bruce Lee. Disappointing news for Superman fans, but I must say that the Bruce Lee looks marvelous! Keep your fingers crossed that Superman is on Hot Toys' short list. Head on over to the "Fortress of Solitude" forum to read what fans are saying about the Mattel Reeve figure and Hot Toys.
26 July 2010
My friend Noel Neill has recently fallen and broken her hip. She is in the hospital recovering. I wish for her no pain and a speedy recovery. Please send your well wishes, cards and more to Noel Neill, 4421 N. Bear Canyon Road, Tucson, AZ 85749.
24 July 2010
The "Readers Talkback" response to the behind-the-scenes CapedWonder™ photo that Aint' It Cool News posted earlier this week has been tremendous! Christopher Reeve touched so many people's lives and these responses are more testament to his positive and lasting impact on the world.
Click on the images below to see upcoming Mattel 12" Christopher Reeve Superman figure, as seen at the 2010 San Diego Comic Con! These photos originally appeared on Action Figure Insider, Toy News International, and Cool Toy Review. Thanks to the fine folks over at these sites for hosting photos of this great figure! The tag below the figure states that Superman, Lex Luthor and Zod (again) will be on sale for Holiday 2010! Also notice the photo of the wig and kryptonite -- are they for the upcoming Lex Luthor figure? Thanks to Noldy Rodriquez for alerting me to all of these photos. Contact me if you'd like to send me your photos.
23 July 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
Superfan Julian Adderley recently traveled to the Superman-The Movie Kent farm in Canada. Below are two of his photos where I have added some "CapedWonder Magic" to enhance the interesting wood textures and colors.
21 July 2010
Yesterday, Ain't It Cool News featured one of my favorite Superman-The Movie behind-the-scenes photos on their "Behind the Scenes Pic of the Day" page. Below is the photo, along with three others from the same shoot. Thanks Ain't It Cool News!
20 July 2010
I love pop-up books, and the one in the video above looks particularly great! I will be photographing it with a shift-tilt lens and macro lens to achieve some interesting perspectives and selective focusing under a variety of lighting conditions. I'll also be photographing a Superman pop-up book from the late 70s. If you have a superhero pop-up book that you don't mind me borrowing, I'll be sure to photograph it as well, and return it to you in its original condition. The photos will be featured here and on Facebook. You say you're not yet a member of the CapedWonder™ Facebook group? Well...click here to join!
18 July 2010
Here's an unused alternate (and vertical) Kent family portrait from Superman-The Movie shot by Bob Penn. Bob used Nikon equipment, as I do, and he shot the majority of the major player photos in Donner's Superman series. You can see Bob on the right with two Nikon cameras in this Super rare behind-the-scenes Smallville photo, also featuring Bob's assistant, Glenn Ford, and the 10-year-old alternate Clark Kent actor. Isn't it amazing how much the 10-year-old Clark looks like a young Chris Reeve? Click here to see more exclusive new Smallville photos.
Here's a new Superman-The Movie "gauntlet" photo that I recently posted. I have also added some new photos throughout all of the galleries, so take a look around!
13 July 2010
Superfan and friend Aaron Price created this fantastic silver 'S' shield wallpaper for the fans. I added a bit of "Geoffrey Unsworth glow" to it. Great job Aaron...thanks!
CapedWonder™ image updates will be sporatic throughout much of the summer, as I am currently working on other Superman and non-Superman related projects. Please enjoy my two recent lake photos here and here.
29 June 2010
Check out this very interesting article posted over at Supermania entitled, "Why I Believe In Superman". In the 1988 article, Christopher Reeve states, "I will only do it again if the quality is maintained." This is the only article I've ever come across that reflects what Chris later discussed at the Dixie Trek Convention Q&A session in 1994.
Be sure to go meet celebrity guests Aaron Smolinski and David Prowse, and visit Jamie Reigle's incredible Superman booth at the Screaming TikiCon next weekend!
Three BIG "Thank You"s go out to Super Fans Noldy Rodriquez, Matt Derby, and Seby Ravi for their dedication to Superman and support for CapedWonder™.com. These are the folks we love and want to stay in touch with regularly! You are now in the "Acknowlegements" section of the home page.
28 May 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
27 May 2010
The SUPERMAN-THE MOVIE: RESTORED INTERNATIONAL CUT 2-disc DVD set is now TENTATIVELY scheduled to be released on March 28, 2011, the 9th anniversary of CapedWonder™.com and the 34th anniversary of the first day of principal photography of Superman-The Movie. Stay tuned for future updates along the way.
Download every Superman article in the January 1979 edition of American Cinematographer magazine. This magazine is by far my most favorite, and certainly one of THE most comprehensive, coverage of the making of Superman-The Movie (and Donner's Superman II). While other movie enthusiasts I knew at the time were mainly into the making of Star Wars, I was much more interested in how Superman was achieved since I was so enthralled with the movie. I've lost count of how many times I've re-read all of this fascinating articles! The articles are one large PDF file, so be sure to download the latest Adobe Reader here. ENJOY!
17 May 2010
These six Original Prop Blog Superman costume articles are well worth your time. Click here for more Superman costume information.
15 May 2010
Yesterday was the 16th Anniversary of the historic Dixie Trek Convention with Christopher Reeve and Noel Neill.
Lately, I've been working on non-Superman images for my clients, as well as revisiting some Europe photos from a few years ago, including this one of Stonehenge in England. While in England, I also visited Madame Tussauds, which had a Christopher Reeve Superman figure on display here and here. Martin Lakin has more information about the figure over at Supermania.
It's evident that Christopher Reeve's legacy as Superman will live on for a very long time, as I constantly see fans and artists creating some great (and sometimes just interesting) paintings, sculptures, and figures. Here's one such piece that I like very much from "monomaster1". I don't have any details about it as of this writing. Enjoy!
05 May 2010
I am currently working on other imaging projects, so there will be no CapedWonder™ photo updates for a few weeks. My commercial photography business keeps me busy shooting a variety of products, lifestyle, interiors and home theaters -- here's a recent release of Electronic House magazine featuring my work. You can see a small sampling of more of my work at www.jimbowers.biz.
A number of fans have e-mailed me since 2006 asking about Richard Lester's theatrical Superman II and if it will ever be released on Blu-ray. That's a great question. I, for one, can't wait to see Clark Kent transform into Superman in the back alley and Superman deliver the American Flag to the White House in glorious high-def (and hear it in DTS/TrueHD/PCM audio). As much as it makes sense to release it now, I highly doubt you'll see it available until the next Superman movie is released in theaters, which will likely be four+ years away. While Warner Home Video is at it, they should re-release the Superman-The Movie and Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut Blu-rays with DTS/TrueHD/PCM audio and all three STM documentaries included! I don't participate in petitions (besides, WHV already knows my position on Superman Blu-rays and audio choices), so if you choose to initiate/participate in one to get these Blu-rays released, I wish you the best of luck with your efforts.
02 May 2010
Download the tenth clip from the Superman - Creating the Theatrical Saga series called "No Fantasy" from the upcoming Superman-The Movie: Restored International Cut DVD project. Remember that this is a FAN-based project, and will NOT be for sale when completed. Go to the page for more information.
01 May 2010
This 1947 Pep Cereal Superman Display is a truly a spendid collectible. Here's the artwork enhanced (with a blank cereal box). The Superman has always reminded me of Chris Reeve. Have a great May!
30 April 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK (wallpapers are back -- see the gallery page)
So is it me, or are all of the "official" released and upcoming Superman figures and statues missing the mark (usually in more ways than just one) at truly capturing the likeness and essence of Christopher Reeve as Superman? From studying this figure first-hand and photos of the upcoming pieces, I feel the answer is definitely "yes". It's quite frustrating for me considering all of the reference photographs and Blu-rays available to any artist/designer/sculptor. Of course, we've yet to see any photos of the supposed future release of Hot Toys' Reeve figure, but based on their excellent track record, I've got my fingers crossed that theirs will be the most accurate release of all. Bottom line is that I refuse to fork out my hard earned dollars for so-so work. Thoughts?
Speaking of studios, check out this really interesting website, www.007stage.com.
CapedWonder.com received this very nice letter from a fan in Australia:
"Dear Jim,
Thank you for your amazing website. I have been a Superman fan as long as I
can remember and Christopher Reeve encompasses everything that Superman
represents. If we could all be a little more like the late Mr. Reeve, the
world would be a better place. He truly was Superman. May he continue to
rest in peace & God bless you for your compassion and dedication to
preserving a legacy we should all strive to achieve.
Kindest Regards,
Pete Caddey
Inverell, Australia"
23 April 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
22 April 2010
BBDO Moscow recently launched a Superhero-themed ad campaign for Stroy Master Soundproof Windows, featuring Superman and Spiderman. These great illustrations were created by artist Maxim Kostenko. Here's his work-in-progress of the Superman illustration. Take a look at the framed photo on the left wall of the final rendering -- it's this CapedWonder image (with the original background removed). Also notice that Maxim first decided to use this CapedWonder image in his work-in-progress rendering. I also like Max's "Big Santa" illustration. Enjoy!
19 April 2010
I've made the decision not to purchase a Superman Cinemaquette. With that said, I have a brand new, in the original box, 20x19x32 clear acrylic display case with black acrylic bottom for sale that is perfect for displaying the Cinemaquette. The case is from Cases For Collectibles, and is excellent quality. It is available with shipping (in the Continental U.S.) for $185.00. Please contact me if you are interested.
16 April 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
"I'll never forget how genuine of a person he really was...something for us all to aspire to." -- Kris Meadows
(referring to meeting Christopher Reeve at Dixie Trek -- see my new photos below)
Christopher Reeve won a Hugo Award at Seacon '79 in England for his Superman performance. Here is a photo of Chris signing autographs at the event. An extensive new article and many more photos are coming this year.
These two Superman-The Movie continuity photos were recently bought on-line. Pretty neat, eh? They are of Chris Reeve in Gallup, New Mexico, while filming the Lois' car scenes towards the end of the movie. Below are other CapedWonder™ photos from that same time period (June 1978).
Hi Folks! Thirteen years ago today, Christopher Reeve received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It's an experience I will always vividly remember. Click here to go to his star page.
Martin Lakin is one of the most honest, giving, knowledgeable, professional and enthusiastic Superman fans I know -- and a great friend. Thank you, Martin, for your support and contributions to CapedWonder™.com! Go to his "Supermania" blog now!
UPDATED 16 APRIL -- Here are three Spanish Superman-The Movie magazine articles of interest: The first is a great Margot Kidder/Lois Lane photo spread in "Diez Minutos". The second is from the January 20, 1979 issue of "Hola!", featuring an interview with Christopher Reeve, with seldom-seen photos of Chris (including his weight training for Superman), Margot Kidder, Gene Hackman and Valerie Perrine. And the last is from the March 17, 1979 issue of "Hola!", featuring coverage of the Superman-The Movie special showing in Spain that benefited UNICEF. Pictured in the blue dress is the Queen of Spain, Doña Sofia. How about the Superman paintings in the background?? The movie premiered in Spanish theaters on February 8, 1979. Special thanks to Jonathan Pierson for translating these articles.
High-resolution files or prints of CapedWonder™ imagery are only available to employees and board members of DC Comics, Warner Bros., the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, and other major studios and organizations that are assigned with official and approved Christopher Reeve/Superman projects. Please do not post CapedWonder™ imagery or your manipulations of CapedWonder™ imagery on any websites, message boards, forums, blogs, or social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter or similar without prior written permission. Thank you.
A Noel Neill Lois Lane statue article is featured here, and an interview with the sculptor here. Unveiling is set for June 11, 2010.
Here's some new and very interesting Superman-The Movie trivia -- I scanned a few of my Superman-The Movie continuity Polaroid photos yesterday, and sent one to Dick Donner and Tom Mankiewicz. They both e-mailed me right back to thank me, and Tom confirmed my inquiry that
"Angus Kent" and "Emaline Kent" (shown on the two crosses) must be Jonathan Kent's parents (Joanthan's grave can partially be seen to the left of these two graves). Pretty cool, eh? The passion and love for the character and for film making in general are so evident throughout these two "Super" films.
Super Thanks goes out to Francesco Accattatis for creating the extraordinary tribute video to Christopher Reeve that you see at the top of this page. Happy Easter everyone!
Another incredibly gifted movie set still photographer has passed away -- Rest in Peace Pierre Vinet. He and Bob Penn must have had such fun on these sets of so many movies we know and love. What a dream job! This is my favorite Vinet photo. You can see more of his work here.
05 March 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
03 March 2010
The Superman Cinemaquette is available for pre-order right now! Click on the banner above.
Since its inception eight years ago, CapedWonder™.com has been asked to get involved with petitions for various "efforts". It is this website's policy NOT to start, support, or participate in any kind of petition, whether on-line or otherwise. Additionally, CapedWonder™.com will not review or forward fan-created movie/TV screenplays, book manuscripts, videos, etc., to actors, directors, producers, screenplay writers, motion picture executives, or others involved in the film industry.
02 March 2010
”Gratitude, like love, needs to be active." - Christopher Reeve.
If you have a website and would like to post a link to this site, here are two new banners to choose from. Please let me know if you are in need of a special size banner and I will make it for you. Thanks!
My visit to this wonderful Wonder Woman website was time well spent today. Check it out!
22 February 2010
I was never a Seinfeld watcher, but I really like his beautifully illustrated "Halloween" book. dialbforblog.com is a great website chalked full of colorful comic book imagery, with a fun Seinfeld section that shows Randy Bowen's Superman statue from the early 90's, and a nice Christopher Reeve tribute. I have two of the statues displayed in my office -- one has Christopher Reeve's gold autograph on it. I remember how much Chris liked the statue at the 1994 Atlanta Dixie Trek convention.
Superfan and friend Julian Adderley from Canada photographed various Superman-The Movie, Superman II, and Superman IV shooting locations last year, including the New York Daily News, Solow Building, Statue of Liberty and Niagara Falls. Click here to enjoy the Flash gallery. Thanks for sharing, Julian!
19 February 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
16 February 2010
Concerning Facebook -- As you may know, there is a Facebook group called 'www.CapedWonder.com' that I started a few months ago. Many of you have joined and I really appreciate your interest. I often post information and photos there before I post them here. You can join the group by clicking on the Facebook logo at the bottom of every page on this website. That said, I don't accept Facebook friend requests from people I don't know, so if you send me a friend request and I don't accept it, please don't take any offense. It's best to join the group and that way you can contact me there and here. Thanks for your understanding.
14 February 2010
October 3, 2010 is the 30th Anniversary of the most amazing romantic film ever made, Somewhere in Time. CapedWonder™.com will be celebrating by posting many photos in the new Somewhere in Time gallery throughout this year and beyond. Feel free to send me high quality photos from your collection. I will be sure to give you full credit for your contributions. Thanks!
"Once you choose hope, anything's possible." -- Christopher Reeve.
"Your emotional state has a tremendous amount to do with sickness, health and well-being. For years, my husband and I lived on -- and because of -- hope. Hope continues to give me the mental strength to carry on." -- Dana Reeve.
12 February 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
05 February 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
29 January 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
24 January 2010
My friend and artist Brian Roll shared with me this past Friday that in 2007 he was commissioned by the parents of 2-year-old boy named Justin to paint this piece called, "Justin and Superman", after Justin suddenly passed away. Justin was absolutely crazy about all things Superman. I must admit that I got quite a lump in my throat when I first saw this very touching piece. Thank you, Brian.
There's nothing quite like sitting down, relaxing, and delving into a good novel. Unfortunately, this is something I don't do very often nowadays. Anyhow, I received two of these graphic novels as Christmas gifts, and just finished reading this one. I really enjoyed it. Geoff Johns and Gary Frank are a gifted team. I am also enjoying their Secret Origins so far. Have an excellent week!
30 July 2010 -- IMAGES OF THE WEEK
My good friend Julian Adderley recently visited the Superman-The Movie Kent farm filming location in Canada. Watch his "Triumph Over Smallville" featurette above. I wish to thank Julian for shooting and editing this very special piece of history -- I was quite moved by it. Enjoy! Want to know more about the truck shown in the featurette? Request to join the 
