I just re-watched 2006's Superman Returns, starring Brandon Routh Kate Bosworth, and Kevin Spacey.
I really really REALLY don't get all the hate with this film. It's just as touching and moving and meaningful as the Richard Donner/Christopher Reeve films and also continued with that well-established continuity perfectly. The sense of nostalgia and "wow this IS Superman" I felt every time I watched it is undeniable. I really wish they had kept with this continuity and just advanced the story, because I thought they had a great cast. Brandon was SO perfect for the role.
Some people complained that "Superman didn't PUNCH anyone." .... but has that really EVER been the point of Superman? How heroic is punching someone? Watching Superman Returns, all I see are great feats of true heroism. He literally saves hundreds of lives. Without having to resort to violence. THAT is the mark of a true hero to me. That is Superman. I don't know what the next film has in store, but I hope it retains the sense of heroism, the feeling that Superman is above doing anything petty, just to feel better for a few seconds, by knocking someone out. If you want to watch someone who hits people a lot, watch Batman. Superman isn't about that.
R.I.P Christopher Reeves.... you are still missed.