Flying into history
The resounding blockbuster success of the first Superman was chalked down to a combination of factors -- huge hype, luck, novelty value. It could not, critics argued, be a serious Hollywood franchise: it was a children's movie.
Superman II (1980) made them contradict their critiques and run out of superlatives. Dramatically acclaimed as a film with heart, the movie established Reeve's credentials as a solid actor and gave more depth to the character of Clark Kent than ever before, as he decides to give up his superpowers to marry sweetheart Lois Lane.
Of course, the powers were never relinquished (something Kryptonian villains ensured), and Reeve charted the films (two more followed) with unerring accuracy towards the top of the global box office.
The franchise made $300 million, and the new American icon graced posters adorning rooms of teenage girls for several decades to come. Boys continue to buy 'Supe' tee-shirts.
A star was born, and conquered the world instantly.