Superman II (1980) vs Batman Returns (1992)

Superman 1978 vs Batman 1989 was an epic battle, Superman II vs Batman Returns is equally epic, as both films are famous for being almost as good as the originals, something that doesn't usually happen with sequels, especially not superhero sequels. Superman 1978 was a lengthy film, an epic origins story. What many people don't realise though is that Superman 78 and Superman II were filmed back to back. This wasn't because the producers knew it would be a surefire hit but because it was cheaper, especially regarding contracts. This is one of the reasons why a few key actors didn't return, or were featured fleetingly in the third outing. There were many issues with this super-sequil, the main being the greedy production team. Richard Lester was brought in to replace Richard Donner to finish off his good work and make the odd change here and there. It is amazing the film ever saw the light of day and even more amazing that it is almost as good. The origins was over with, now for the action. It's not perfect but the good elements more than outweigh what is wrong with it. Terance Stamp's General Zod is great as are his sidekicks Non and Ursa (played by Jack O'Halloran and Sarah Douglas). If that weren't enough, Gene Hackman was back as the sinister Lex Luthor. Four villains compared to Batman Return's three. However, Batman's foe were quite brilliant. It's fair to say Michelle Pfeiffer's leather-clad Catwoman stole much of the limelight as far as hype and promotion went but it was Danny DeVito's performance as Penguin that made the film the darker fantasy Burton is famous for. Personally, I always liked Christopher Walken's Max Shreck but why Burton decided to make a new villain up and name him after the famous Nosforatu actor to lazily paint a picture of creepyness is beyond me. If its one thing Batman has never been short of, it's villains. It has been said that the original script saw Harvey Dent's character in this role but there were legal issues and the producers didn't want Billy Dee Williams back in the role from the first film. I'm afraid Batman 1989 looses considerable points for that alone. Once again I find myself choosing between two films I love. I don't think Superman II is as good as Superman 1978 but I do think Batman returns is better than Batman 1989 in many respects. The combination of Danny DeVito and Christopher Walken's performances almost clinch it but personally it's Terrance Stamp's Zod that swings it for me.

In this particular episode of Superman vs Batman - Superman wins!