I bought the extended TV cut as soon as it was available but I admit that I have a thing for extended TV cuts and they're not always the optimum viewing experience.

So I usually go with the special edition version for regular viewing.

Digging around a little, it looks like Puzo’s script was a bit more serious. They brought in a couple other writers to add some more of the lighthearted/humorous stuff. I could tell you who is responsible for what thought. Although it sounds like Brando was throwing out some ridiculous ideas all for the sake of doing less work.

As a huge fan of the movie, I agree. I actually have a tough time watching the theatrical version these days.

And while it's not something I'd watch over and over again, any fan should catch the television cut at least once. There are some amusing bits found nowhere else.

Usually the theatrical - but no matter which version I *always* skip the Superman & Lois flying bit as it just drags it down to a full stop.

I personally prefer the Special edition for the home video release because it has Dick Donner and Tom Mankiewicz's commentary track and they give great insight into the production of the movie. I could care less what Spengler and Salkind think, they are the money guys.

Unfortunately, the special edition is not an option on the upcoming 4K box set. They go with the theatrical cut.

This is really a great origin story. The tv cut has almost an hour of backstory before the action begins. Truly a masterclass in filmmaking. This is a feel good flick.

And, John Williams is so freaking fantastic.

He can make any movie, even mediocre ones, seem magical .

While I grew up with the theatrical version on cable and video, I now prefer the SE, as it's really grown on me. I particularly like the extra exposition at the beginning of the Phantom Zone , the fact that Jor-El is actually being investigated by the council as he sends off Kal, and especially the tests Superman undergoes from Luthor before reaching him.

The Maestro

Christopher Reeve was so perfect for this role.

I’d go with theatrical first from the 4K listening to the original sound fx track then after that My go to is that nearly 3 hour super cut.

The extended TV cut is just about unwatchable to me because the scene extensions transform Luthor from a charmingly amoral sociopath to a tedious, charmless, mean-spirited sociopath/asshole. He's like that in the "Donner" cut of Superman II as well.
The editing Baird did, under the gun, was tonally perfect, and especially evident in the service of Luthor. IMO

There is a lot of material in the 2001 SE cut that I love- but also a couple scenes that I'm not as enchanted with, and one that butchers a great transition I always thought was spot on.

In preparation for the UHD set, I decided to finally watch that three hour cut. I picked up the bluray that has that and the special edition on it.
I liked it n all, but the pacing is all thrown off and it’s too long. Definitely not my favorite of the three.
I’m more familiar with the theatrical cut and I’ll watch the special edition one in a few weeks.

I can't fathom skipping that, it's the heart of the movie. Finding love among the aliens and sharing a secret part of your world.

I still have the 1982 TV cut my dad recorded on VHS when it first aired with commercials and all. I do have a soft spot for that but I do prefer the SE from a linear storytelling standpoint. Regardless of the version, arguably one of my favorite movies. Technically, aren't there 2 extended TV cuts, 1982 at 182m and 1994 at 188m?