Flying scenes

One of the most groundbreaking elements of Superman was its contribution to the evolution of visual effects in cinema.

Unimpressed with the techniques available at the time, director Richard Donner set out to find a better way to show Superman flying - something that would feel believable and awe-inspiring.

To achieve this, Donner collaborated with optics expert Zoran Perisic, who developed an innovative system using two zoom lenses.

When combined, the lenses created a realistic illusion of flight without relying on traditional wires or animation.

Donner explained: “Christopher Reeve would be basically in one place, on a pole arm … that you don’t see, and all he does is sort of make the moves, and it’s the camera and the projector that make him look like he comes straight up.”

The final result was so convincing that several members of the crew were moved to tears upon seeing it for the first time.

It marked a turning point for special effects in film, setting a new standard for what was possible on screen.