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View Full Version : How long before someone makes their OWN version of Superman II?


Catman
11-28-2006, 01:36 PM
I just went over to the IMDb boards and people are already talking about combining the Lester and Donner films to make their own version.

Kevin Roegele
11-28-2006, 01:47 PM
I f I had time, I would. The final scene at the White House needs to be in the movie. The President screams for Superman's help, and finally Superman goes to to apologize for not appearing. It completes the movie.

Plus, the scene of Clark getting beaten up in the diner is not enough. I'd shoot my own scene where he gets his balls beaten with a rope.

I'm working on an edit of Batman Forever as close to the original cut (i.e. staring at Arkham) as possible.

Catman
11-28-2006, 05:07 PM
I'm working on an edit of Batman Forever as close to the original cut (i.e. staring at Arkham) as possible.

Fantastic! :yay:

For Superman II remember to include Superman telling Zod, "care to step outside" instead of "ever heard of freedom of the press?"

KGBeast
11-28-2006, 05:29 PM
iŽd like to see a definitive version of Superman 2, The Donner & Lester Cut. Taking the best of each one.

Moviefan2k4
11-28-2006, 05:38 PM
I agree with the folks who say they want a combined version, but if there's one thing Donner is known for, it's his belief of sole directorial credit. The Salkinds reportedly approached him for co-director with Lester in 1979, but he turned them down.

ReeveFan1978
11-28-2006, 06:30 PM
So how does one do that? Do computers that burn dvd's, record these dvd movies?

Id love to see such a copy. It needs to be combined because there are great things in both versions.

MHO

EL

Kevin Roegele
11-28-2006, 06:47 PM
So how does one do that? Do computers that burn dvd's, record these dvd movies?

Id love to see such a copy. It needs to be combined because there are great things in both versions.

MHO

EL

I use Ulead Video Studio and DVD Shrink. I've made several trailers which are on YouTube, and with Batman Forever I'm up to Batman fighting two-Face's thugs at the beginning. Using the deleted scenes from the DVD and trailers, there is a large ammount of un-used footage. Plus, I've taken out the infamous sandwich line, and used the Danny Elfman theme for Batman suiting up and driving to the bank at the beginning (which now occurs after meeting Nygma at Wayetech).

Catman
11-28-2006, 11:52 PM
I wanna see those YouTube clips. Do you have a link?

Thot
11-29-2006, 01:11 AM
The Donner Cut stands alone just fine. I don't think a Lester/Donner version would be very palatable. Too many differences in style and sensibilities. I'm very happy with what we got!

Catman
11-29-2006, 01:26 AM
Too many differences in style and sensibilities.

Dude, that's something the film has suffered since the beginning. Look at Lester's version. The Donner stuff stick out like crazy. The same can be said about Donner's version. The Lester stuff stick out like crazy.

But, there is a way to put it all together and still make a great movie out of it. I think we should help Kevin Roegle with his cut.

This is how I would do it:
1. Start with Lester's recap/opening credits. Then, end with Superman sending the missle into outer space and allowing Zod to escape.
2. Keep EVERYTHING Donner shot INCLUDING those deleted scenes. Why did they cut that stuff? Its really stupid. I think it should be put back in.
3. Put back in Lester's version of Superman's reappearence. "Care to step outside" is better than "ever heard of freedom of the press?"
4. Get rid of turning the Earth around. IMO this is how the film should end:
-Superman and Lois leave the Fortress and fly back to the apartment. They have their speech and Superman flies away. FADE TO BLACK. Then, we put back in the deleted scene of Lex Luthor escaping Jail...again. CUT TO the diner scene in which Clark beats up the trucker. The Superman theme starts to play and we have a smooth cut to Superman flying to the White House and apologizing to the President. Then...THE END.

Moviefan2k4
11-29-2006, 01:30 AM
I use Ulead Video Studio...How on Earth do you get the playback to work properly during the edit? I have 768MB of RAM on my PC, and the d@mn program stalls on me during playback!

Catman
11-29-2006, 01:47 AM
Maybe he has a 1024MB and keeps his hard-drive clean.

Majik1387
11-29-2006, 01:49 AM
I use Ulead Video Studio and DVD Shrink. I've made several trailers which are on YouTube, and with Batman Forever I'm up to Batman fighting two-Face's thugs at the beginning. Using the deleted scenes from the DVD and trailers, there is a large ammount of un-used footage. Plus, I've taken out the infamous sandwich line, and used the Danny Elfman theme for Batman suiting up and driving to the bank at the beginning (which now occurs after meeting Nygma at Wayetech).

Awesome. Looking forward to seeing it, if possible.:):up:

Catman
11-29-2006, 01:55 AM
Yeah, Kev. I've known you for almost 5 years now and this is the first I hear of you making videos. I wanna see your stuff.

Road Warrior
11-29-2006, 03:22 AM
I read this as well on IMDb. Honestly, I see where people are coming from with this idea. Donner's version was perfect but unforunately he didn't finish the film. So, you're forced to put in Lester's stuff. And, if you're forced to put in his stuff atleast try your best to make the best out of it.

On IMDb someone wrote something that agreed with. Donner still seems really upset about the entire ordeal. I don't blame him. But, it got in the way of making Superman II the best it could. It seemed like he removed as much of Lester as possible just for the hell of it. And, Michael Thau kind of proves this on DVD. Originally he had more Lester stuff included and felt (after Donner saw the cut) like he had to remove it.

Lester may not have been the best man for the job. That's something Superman III proves. But, he did do a pretty good job with Superman II. You can't say his Superman II is bad because it isn't. It's inferior...no question about it but it's still a really good movie. And, his version included some awesome stuff like the "step outside" line and his apology to the president. All that should have been included in Donner's cut.

Moviefan2k4
11-29-2006, 03:32 AM
I use Ulead Video Studio...Do you have the full version or the trial, and what are the system requirements for it? I'm running Windows XP, and I have an AMD 2500+ AthlonXP processor, 768MB of RAM, and 80GB hard drive...not sure if I need anything else or not. I can't seem to convert the captured VOB files to MPEG though, without the audio being scrapped during the conversion....makes no sense to me.

ReeveFan1978
11-29-2006, 07:22 AM
Id add the elevator scene with jimmy and Clark and that bully THEN go back to the diner. LOL

EL
http://members.aol.com/modfrancie1966/chrisgc.jpg
Once a girl's seen Superman in action, Niagara Falls kinda leaves you cold.

Actually I'd fit that shirt ripping scene in someplace.
4. Get rid of turning the Earth around. IMO this is how the film should end:
-Superman and Lois leave the Fortress and fly back to the apartment. They have their speech and Superman flies away. FADE TO BLACK. Then, we put back in the deleted scene of Lex Luthor escaping Jail...again. CUT TO the diner scene in which Clark beats up the trucker. The Superman theme starts to play and we have a smooth cut to Superman flying to the White House and apologizing to the President. Then...THE END.[/quote]

ReeveFan1978
11-29-2006, 07:31 AM
I agree with what you said. Superman II Lester version is a great film. It has flaws but what film doesnt have a few?

The Donner cut is a great gift to use diehard fans but I suspect any one less than a diehard would not like it as much as lesters. Simply because it is apparently pieced together. The scenes seem edited obviously in some points.., as has been said here, the 2 dont mix.
Taking out the "Would you care to step outside?" line for instance. Why? Why not go with that? It was wonderful. PLUS if Superman turned back time, hey, the diner scene never happened. He wouldnt have gone after that bully.

I believe that Superman II was the good film it is because Lester was following much of Donner's story. He just changed settings and kept the dialogue(again, he had no reason except ego I think). When left on his own, you get a comedy like Superman 3. lester is a great director, His 2 Beatle films prove that. But Donner had the right Superman vision.

Anyway Im ramvling..Hope you get the point. LOL

EL
http://members.aol.com/modfrancie1966/chrisgc.jpg
Once a girl's seen Superman in action, Niagara Falls kinda leaves you cold.





Lester may not have been the best man for the job. That's something Superman III proves. But, he did do a pretty good job with Superman II. You can't say his Superman II is bad because it isn't. It's inferior...no question about it but it's still a really good movie. And, his version included some awesome stuff like the "step outside" line and his apology to the president. All that should have been included in Donner's cut.[/quote]

Catman
11-29-2006, 07:32 AM
Id add the elevator scene with jimmy and Clark and that bully THEN go back to the diner.

Cool.

Now, where's Kevin? That bastard better start working on our version of Superman II. :cmad:

Kevin Roegele
11-29-2006, 02:01 PM
Yeah, Kev. I've known you for almost 5 years now and this is the first I hear of you making videos. I wanna see your stuff.

My Batman Returns trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7RxTGHNGOo


My Batman movies trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qc_5pKmFjU0

Kevin Roegele
11-29-2006, 02:03 PM
How on Earth do you get the playback to work properly during the edit? I have 768MB of RAM on my PC, and the d@mn program stalls on me during playback!

It stalls on occasion depending on how big your movie is. Sometimes it's better to split a big project up into different files, then put them together at the end. With Forever, I did the credits first, then the first scene, and so on.

Kevin Roegele
11-29-2006, 02:07 PM
Do you have the full version or the trial, and what are the system requirements for it? I'm running Windows XP, and I have an AMD 2500+ AthlonXP processor, 768MB of RAM, and 80GB hard drive...not sure if I need anything else or not. I can't seem to convert the captured VOB files to MPEG though, without the audio being scrapped during the conversion....makes no sense to me.

I have the full version.

Here's the process I use; grab the scenes you require with DVD Shrink (which is free online), convert them to MPG files, then open them in Ulead Video Studio. That way the picture quality is exactly the same as the original DVD.

Moviefan2k4
11-29-2006, 02:18 PM
Wjat do you use to convert the VOB files?

Kevin Roegele
11-29-2006, 02:21 PM
Dude, that's something the film has suffered since the beginning. Look at Lester's version. The Donner stuff stick out like crazy. The same can be said about Donner's version. The Lester stuff stick out like crazy.

But, there is a way to put it all together and still make a great movie out of it. I think we should help Kevin Roegle with his cut.

This is how I would do it:
1. Start with Lester's recap/opening credits. Then, end with Superman sending the missle into outer space and allowing Zod to escape.
2. Keep EVERYTHING Donner shot INCLUDING those deleted scenes. Why did they cut that stuff? Its really stupid. I think it should be put back in.
3. Put back in Lester's version of Superman's reappearence. "Care to step outside" is better than "ever heard of freedom of the press?"
4. Get rid of turning the Earth around. IMO this is how the film should end:
-Superman and Lois leave the Fortress and fly back to the apartment. They have their speech and Superman flies away. FADE TO BLACK. Then, we put back in the deleted scene of Lex Luthor escaping Jail...again. CUT TO the diner scene in which Clark beats up the trucker. The Superman theme starts to play and we have a smooth cut to Superman flying to the White House and apologizing to the President. Then...THE END.

Okay, regarding what I plan to do with my cut of Supes II...

1. Sorry, it's got to be Donner's recap. Not only does it have Brando but it also has the new baby Kal-El shots.

2. I'll use most of the Donner stuff. The screentest footage unveiling I won't use, I'll use Lester's scene in the hotel where Clark doesn't burn his hand. I also intend to use the Lois jumping out of the window scene as well as Lois jumping in the water.

3. Here's where we get really technical. I'll use Lester's version of the papers being blown around on the street, with the Superman theme, and then I'll find a shot somewhere else of Supes flying because I hate the Lester one and Donnr doesn't use one, then, "Would you care to step outside?" but then Donner has an awesome shot of Supes flying away immedietly after, so that goes in. You see how much effort it takes? It's great fun but painstaking.

4. You read my mind - almost. The Lex car escape scene is great, I intend to put that back in at the end, as does the White House scene. Aas for the Lois/Clark denouement, I haven't decided yet and I like your suggestion of just leaving it with Lois knowing but unable to do anything. Think I'll cut her, "Up, up and away line," though...


Also, if I can find it in good quality, I'll put in the, "He was just a boy!" scene where Non kills the kid. Also Ursa arm-wrestling and Zod throwing the guy thru the wall and the trick - I love that shot. Mount Rushmore and the Washington Monument will be in.

Kevin Roegele
11-29-2006, 02:21 PM
Wjat do you use to convert the VOB files?

Just change the filenames.

Road Warrior
11-29-2006, 02:25 PM
Kevin, those trailers were awesome! Good job, ol' lad. :)

Catman
11-29-2006, 02:38 PM
Kev, when are you gonna edit a new version of Superman II? The public is waiting.

Moviefan2k4
11-29-2006, 02:45 PM
Just change the filenames.It didn't work. The "Properties under each file list it as an MPEG already, but every program displays the VOB extension. Retyping it had no effect.

Kevin Roegele
11-29-2006, 02:49 PM
Kev, when are you gonna edit a new version of Superman II? The public is waiting.

I'm doing Batman Forever first, then I'll do Superman II. It takes ages to do these things.

Catman
11-29-2006, 02:50 PM
I'm doing Batman Forever first, then I'll do Superman II. It takes ages to do these things.

How long have you been working on this Batman Forever version? And, how long is it gonna take you to do Superman II?

Kevin Roegele
11-29-2006, 03:23 PM
How long have you been working on this Batman Forever version? And, how long is it gonna take you to do Superman II?

I've been doing Forever for about three weeks. Obviously when I have time. I have no idea how long Supes II will take, don't hold you breath, you might not like what I come up with anyway! ;)

Catman
11-29-2006, 04:14 PM
you might not like what I come up with anyway! ;)


I see. Should be interesting anyway. Besides...WB snoops around here anyway. Maybe they'll like it and you could be the next Michael Thau.

Kevin Roegele
11-29-2006, 05:25 PM
I see. Should be interesting anyway. Besides...WB snoops around here anyway. Maybe they'll like it and you could be the next Michael Thau.

My plan is begin with the Donner version, and add/replace with the best elements of the Lester version, and the deleted scenes.

I've come up with an idea to use both Lara and Jor-El's warnings against Supes becoming human.

STC
11-29-2006, 07:03 PM
Kevin - I'll buy a copy when u complete S2. It sounds awesome!

Majik1387
11-29-2006, 10:00 PM
My Batman Returns trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7RxTGHNGOo
My Batman movies trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qc_5pKmFjU0

:up: to both of them. :)

The first one was a little odd for the first few seconds but after that it was great.
The second one, I loved how you incoroporated every movie together, I would have used different music at then end rather than what you used because it just kind of changed what I thought you were going for.

Overall :up::up:

Catman
11-30-2006, 05:03 PM
Kevin...someone beat you to it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFbLRd2WrbQ

Kevin Roegele
11-30-2006, 05:04 PM
Kevin - I'll buy a copy when u complete S2. It sounds awesome!

I'll make it clear now that I in no way intend to sell anything or make any money from this.

Kevin Roegele
11-30-2006, 05:05 PM
:up: to both of them. :)

The first one was a little odd for the first few seconds but after that it was great.
The second one, I loved how you incoroporated every movie together, I would have used different music at then end rather than what you used because it just kind of changed what I thought you were going for.

Overall :up::up:

Thanks bud. :)

Catman
11-30-2006, 05:15 PM
I'll be looking forward to your version, but I have to say that this kid (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFbLRd2WrbQ) is doing a pretty good job so far.

You guys should collaborate.

Road Warrior
11-30-2006, 05:26 PM
Kevin...someone beat you to it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFbLRd2WrbQ

That's cool. :yay:

Kevin Roegele
11-30-2006, 05:57 PM
I'll be looking forward to your version, but I have to say that this kid (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFbLRd2WrbQ) is doing a pretty good job so far.

You guys should collaborate.

It's great. But it uses the trial scene from the first movie, which to me is completely pointless. If you have to show a scene that has already been shown in the first movie, atleast show it from different angles, ala the Donner cut.

I'm actually thinking of not having the trial scene at all.

One sequence I'm definetly going to use somewhere is the alleyway Clark-to-Supeman Lester uses before Supes flies to Paris. Just fantastic. Possibly at the end where Supes goes to the White House.....hmmmm....

Catman
11-30-2006, 06:41 PM
It's great. But it uses the trial scene from the first movie, which to me is completely pointless. If you have to show a scene that has already been shown in the first movie, atleast show it from different angles, ala the Donner cut.

You make a good point. But, I see where the kid is coming from.

Binker
11-30-2006, 07:48 PM
How about this: no changes, live with Donner's cut

Road Warrior
11-30-2006, 08:32 PM
How about this: no changes, live with Donner's cut

Too late. I just finished editing my ending to Superman II.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bt_4Unu_yQ

Moviefan2k4
12-01-2006, 12:34 AM
How about this: no changes, live with Donner's cutWell, I can't speak for anyone else, but my main reason for doing a recut of "Superman II" is curiosity. I want to see how the scenes I've selected from both versions will play alongside each other. The other reason is also simple: Donner was never given a proper oppritunity to finish the film, and a lot of the scenes in Lester's version are duplicates of Donner's, but they look more polished. If I can blend the finished look with the exclusive Donner footage (like Brando's role, the Krypton Trial reprise, and the new Zone escape), maybe it will work...time will tell.

Kevin Roegele
12-01-2006, 05:41 AM
How about this: no changes, live with Donner's cut

Hey, everybody stop, Binker says no. ;)

Liquid_Mind
12-03-2006, 09:02 PM
Not that we have both the Donner Cut and the Lester version floating in retail stores, I'm curious to know how all of you would cut your preferred version of Superman II. When I give my opinion, its not how it should be for everyone, as we all have different tastes, but I figure its a fun thing to talk about, now that we have access to almost all the scenes filmed for Superman II

My Definitive Cut of Superman II

I'd keep the Donner Cut version of revisiting the Villains' exile since it has Brando in it, but I'd stop RIGHT AFTER they get thrown in the Phantom Zone (explained later)

I'd follow up with the Donner Cut Credit Sequence since it has John Williams Score and the better opening title than Lester's version.

After the Fade in from Earth to Metropolis, I'd have Lester's version of the Daily Planet opening and I'd keep everything from the Paris incident. I feel it was a better choice to open with an action sequence. It was exciting and worked well all things considered. Obviously if I keep the Paris scene, I have to keep the Lester version of the Villains' escape from the Phantom Zone. (Honestly I prefer that it happened with the missile from Superman I, but it gives the Paris scene a purpose)

I'd actually keep the Daily Planet Sequence with Lois and the Oranges (keeps it consistent with other scenes mentioning Freshly Squeezed orange juice). Plus I thought it was a cute scene between Clark and Lois.

Then the Donner Cut version of Lex's dialogue with Otis in Prison.

Donner version of the moon fight since it has John Williams' score, followed by the Donner version of Lex's escape from Prison.

Lester version of Niagra Falls just for continuity sake. This is where the Donner Cut was choppy since they couldn't show the interior of the suite because of the inconsistency with the screen tests used.

Donner version of Lex and the Fortress of Solitude, since its better than the Lester version and IT HAS BRANDO!

Lester version of Superman saving the kid since I liked how the score flowed with that scene.

Lester version with Lois throwing herself in the water. I prefer this because its a lot more believable than someone jumping 30 stories. Though she could die in both cases, Lois has a lot higher a survival rate jumping in the water at a much closer distance than jumping out a building. Plus I love the comedy gold of Superman being forced to stay in Clark mode.

Lester version of Superman's reveal to Lois. This just works better since it was actually shot. The screen tests as nice as they are, are too distracting due to the wardrobe inconsistencies. Plus I think the Lester version is a lot more tender which works better for this scene, and it explains why they leave Niagra Falls.

Lester version of the Villains first landing on Earth, only I'd skip out on Non's comedy (like the Donner cut). I'm not so crazy for the bumbling cops, but for pacing sake, I'd need to keep them.

Donner version of Superman stripping his own powers stay. Brando is in it and we feel a greater sense of doom by Superman's choice. I stick with this cut.

Donner version of the Villains' invasion of the White House. Like everyone else said, Smiling Zod rules.

Donner version of Clark vs Truck Driver just for the sole fact that Clark says "HE knew, I heard HIM, I just didn't listen."

Donner version of Superman regaining his powers for obvious reasons.

Donner version of the Metropolis Battle, except I'd insert the "Would you care to step outside" line instead.

I'm kinda torn on which I would keep for the final showdown between Superman and Zod at the Fortress. On one hand I think its more climactic to have them battle it out first (minus the S being thrown at Non), but then again, I love how the Donner version was done.

After the Fortress showdown, I'd insert the deleted scene from the Donner cut w/ Lex being taken away by Arctic Patrol. I liked the fact that it showed what really happened to the villains (Superman doesn't believe in killing in my eyes) and I liked the exchange between Luthor and Superman, only to follow it directly with Donner's version of dropping off Lois at her apartment. (Yes, I wouldn't keep the destruction of the fortress)

Sorry guys, but I'm gonna keep the Lester Super Kiss scene, because I totally dislike the turnin back time thing. Its a huge copout. At least with the Super Kiss, while ridiculous, it still doesn't undo all the previous events. I guess from here I'd end it with the Lester version.

And there you have it! My Definitive Version of Superman II. How would you guys do it?

Comic Book Boy
12-03-2006, 09:29 PM
Donner's cut is the only definitive version. Accept no substitutes.

Catman
12-03-2006, 10:27 PM
Not that we have both the Donner Cut and the Lester version floating in retail stores, I'm curious to know how all of you would cut your preferred version of Superman II. When I give my opinion, its not how it should be for everyone, as we all have different tastes, but I figure its a fun thing to talk about, now that we have access to almost all the scenes filmed for Superman II

My Definitive Cut of Superman II

I'd keep the Donner Cut version of revisiting the Villains' exile since it has Brando in it, but I'd stop RIGHT AFTER they get thrown in the Phantom Zone (explained later)

I'd follow up with the Donner Cut Credit Sequence since it has John Williams Score and the better opening title than Lester's version.

After the Fade in from Earth to Metropolis, I'd have Lester's version of the Daily Planet opening and I'd keep everything from the Paris incident. I feel it was a better choice to open with an action sequence. It was exciting and worked well all things considered. Obviously if I keep the Paris scene, I have to keep the Lester version of the Villains' escape from the Phantom Zone. (Honestly I prefer that it happened with the missile from Superman I, but it gives the Paris scene a purpose)

I'd actually keep the Daily Planet Sequence with Lois and the Oranges (keeps it consistent with other scenes mentioning Freshly Squeezed orange juice). Plus I thought it was a cute scene between Clark and Lois.

Then the Donner Cut version of Lex's dialogue with Otis in Prison.

Donner version of the moon fight since it has John Williams' score, followed by the Donner version of Lex's escape from Prison.

Lester version of Niagra Falls just for continuity sake. This is where the Donner Cut was choppy since they couldn't show the interior of the suite because of the inconsistency with the screen tests used.

Donner version of Lex and the Fortress of Solitude, since its better than the Lester version and IT HAS BRANDO!

Lester version of Superman saving the kid since I liked how the score flowed with that scene.

Lester version with Lois throwing herself in the water. I prefer this because its a lot more believable than someone jumping 30 stories. Though she could die in both cases, Lois has a lot higher a survival rate jumping in the water at a much closer distance than jumping out a building. Plus I love the comedy gold of Superman being forced to stay in Clark mode.

Lester version of Superman's reveal to Lois. This just works better since it was actually shot. The screen tests as nice as they are, are too distracting due to the wardrobe inconsistencies. Plus I think the Lester version is a lot more tender which works better for this scene, and it explains why they leave Niagra Falls.

Lester version of the Villains first landing on Earth, only I'd skip out on Non's comedy (like the Donner cut). I'm not so crazy for the bumbling cops, but for pacing sake, I'd need to keep them.

Donner version of Superman stripping his own powers stay. Brando is in it and we feel a greater sense of doom by Superman's choice. I stick with this cut.

Donner version of the Villains' invasion of the White House. Like everyone else said, Smiling Zod rules.

Donner version of Clark vs Truck Driver just for the sole fact that Clark says "HE knew, I heard HIM, I just didn't listen."

Donner version of Superman regaining his powers for obvious reasons.

Donner version of the Metropolis Battle, except I'd insert the "Would you care to step outside" line instead.

I'm kinda torn on which I would keep for the final showdown between Superman and Zod at the Fortress. On one hand I think its more climactic to have them battle it out first (minus the S being thrown at Non), but then again, I love how the Donner version was done.

After the Fortress showdown, I'd insert the deleted scene from the Donner cut w/ Lex being taken away by Arctic Patrol. I liked the fact that it showed what really happened to the villains (Superman doesn't believe in killing in my eyes) and I liked the exchange between Luthor and Superman, only to follow it directly with Donner's version of dropping off Lois at her apartment. (Yes, I wouldn't keep the destruction of the fortress)

Sorry guys, but I'm gonna keep the Lester Super Kiss scene, because I totally dislike the turnin back time thing. Its a huge copout. At least with the Super Kiss, while ridiculous, it still doesn't undo all the previous events. I guess from here I'd end it with the Lester version.

And there you have it! My Definitive Version of Superman II. How would you guys do it?

Kevin will show you the light!

Cannibal Feast
12-04-2006, 05:13 PM
Dude, that's something the film has suffered since the beginning. Look at Lester's version. The Donner stuff stick out like crazy. The same can be said about Donner's version. The Lester stuff stick out like crazy.

But, there is a way to put it all together and still make a great movie out of it. I think we should help Kevin Roegle with his cut.

This is how I would do it:
1. Start with Lester's recap/opening credits. Then, end with Superman sending the missle into outer space and allowing Zod to escape.
2. Keep EVERYTHING Donner shot INCLUDING those deleted scenes. Why did they cut that stuff? Its really stupid. I think it should be put back in.
3. Put back in Lester's version of Superman's reappearence. "Care to step outside" is better than "ever heard of freedom of the press?"
4. Get rid of turning the Earth around. IMO this is how the film should end:
-Superman and Lois leave the Fortress and fly back to the apartment. They have their speech and Superman flies away. FADE TO BLACK. Then, we put back in the deleted scene of Lex Luthor escaping Jail...again. CUT TO the diner scene in which Clark beats up the trucker. The Superman theme starts to play and we have a smooth cut to Superman flying to the White House and apologizing to the President. Then...THE END.
I agree with this. Just leave it at that. Lois doesn't need to forget. He trusts her. It would be a much more powerful ending to know that they are both heartbroken but he still trusts her with his secret.

Kevin Roegele
12-05-2006, 05:18 AM
Kevin will show you the light!

The problem with the magic kiss is that.....well, since when can Supes kiss someone to erase a certain part of their memory? What a weird power that is, anyway.

I like the idea of just leaving it with Lois knowing they can't be together.....

animexcel
12-05-2006, 11:59 AM
I agree with this. Just leave it at that. Lois doesn't need to forget. He trusts her. It would be a much more powerful ending to know that they are both heartbroken but he still trusts her with his secret.

yeah, I agree too.
Also..i think we need to see Lex get taken away at the FoS too if we see him trying to break out of prison again lol

Some of the scenes from Lester's version sounded like they were redubbed; I mean like the "I'm not a coward, Zod." The first time, it was Chris' voice..but the Donner version, they used someone else's..

Moviefan2k4
12-05-2006, 06:51 PM
The "memory kiss" was actually an ability that Superman posessed in the comics, but it wasn't very popular, and after a short time, DC wrote it out. As for the various shifts between both versions of "Superman II", a lot of the Donner Cut's shortcomings was the result of Warner Bros. not wanting to grant a proper budget for the restoration. If they'd have done their best like Lucas did with the different "Star Wars" DVDs, it would've turned out a lot better.

Catman
12-05-2006, 07:09 PM
Give it the Lucas treatment! ;)

TwilightPro101
12-05-2006, 07:47 PM
The Lucas treatment would make it even worse.

animexcel
12-05-2006, 08:47 PM
Lucas treatment as in CG-flying Chris Reeve? :x

Moviefan2k4
12-05-2006, 09:04 PM
I was using Lucas as an example. What I meant was that Warner Bros. should have approved a proper budget for the completion of the Donner Cut (reshoots with photo or body doubles, CGI effects, sound alteration for line replacement, rescoring, etc). Had they done so, the film would be one of their absolute biggest and most-loved releases ever, as opposed to the half-finished version we have now.

No disrespect to Donner, Mank, or Mr. Thau, because it truly isn't their fault. It was the studio, and their greedy-as-hell entertainment execs. Argh!!:(

Kevin Roegele
12-06-2006, 01:27 PM
Going back to the 'adding Lex escaping prison again at the end' idea, another reason for it's inclusion is to show that Lex wasn't killed when Supes destroyed the FOS. Either that or the artic patrol scene, and the problem with that is the, 'Blast off!" line.

Any non-fans could be forgiven for thinking that Supes kills Lex and the other bad guys at the climax. Which is harsh, considering they're now powerless.

I'd love to see scenes of Zod in prison. Imagine...

"Kneel before Zod! Now....pick up the soap."

Actually I don't want to see that at all!

buggs0268
12-06-2006, 01:46 PM
yeah, I agree too.
Also..i think we need to see Lex get taken away at the FoS too if we see him trying to break out of prison again lol

Some of the scenes from Lester's version sounded like they were redubbed; I mean like the "I'm not a coward, Zod." The first time, it was Chris' voice..but the Donner version, they used someone else's..
They probably could not find the original ADR for that scene, and could not use it as they wanted to use Williams music on it and not Thorn. Since they could not take Thornes music down, they just redubbed it. Since Chris is dead, well, you know what they had to do.

Guyverjay
12-06-2006, 03:15 PM
Mount Rushmore will be in.

Dear God WHY??

Kevin Roegele
12-06-2006, 04:12 PM
Dear God WHY??

Because Zod is a dictator and it makes sense that he would want a huge carving of his face.

Cannibal Feast
12-06-2006, 04:21 PM
I may have missed this already, but how do we go about getting a DVD of your version when it's ready?

Kevin Roegele
12-07-2006, 08:08 AM
I may have missed this already, but how do we go about getting a DVD of your version when it's ready?

I haven't even started on it yet so I'm not sure yet. I certainly wouldn't ever sell it or make any profit from it.

Kevin Roegele
12-07-2006, 08:09 AM
Because Zod is a dictator and it makes sense that he would want a huge carving of his face.

In addition, I won't show Mount Rushmore being zapped, just when it has Zod, Non and Ursa's faces.

Cannibal Feast
12-07-2006, 09:31 AM
Well, if you are interested in trading or anything please let me know. Maybe if people provide you with blank DVD's and pay for postage or something.
I'm just excited that you're doing this. As soon as I saw the movie I said I wanted to see a version with the best of both.

FNSpidey
12-07-2006, 11:45 AM
Kevin, I'm very interested in both of your efforts, but at this point I would really like to see your Batman Forever version. That movie could have been at least decent. Just cut out the humour and add the subplot about Bruce's guilt for "killing" his parents and using Batman as punishment for himself. "I am Batman AND Bruce Wayne, not because I have to. Now, because I choose to". Good stuff. If only that line made ANY sense in the cut we got...

Anyway, since you're not planning on making any money from this, could I suggest a torrent file? Whatever you decide, please let us know ok?

Good luck with your efforts.