One Classic FIlm…

Many formats.

The above is just a sample of the huge output Warner Bros. has released over the last three decades in a fine demonstration of the longevity of this timeless classic.

From the top, Super8 reel, NTSC Laserdisc, VHS cassette with feature in Widescreen (I remember this being very exciting in 1993, look how far we’ve come!!) and the 2001 Special Edition DVD.  One wonders what can we expect in the years to come beyond Blu-ray?  Superman in 3D?  Time will tell but ultimately there is no substitute for reliving the experience on the silver screen – Take Flight…!

 

The Fall Guy…

Anyone with an interest in the cinema of the last fifty years would no doubt be intrigued to discover what a significant, yet virtually anonymous role one Victor Armstrong has played in some of the most popular films. From humble beginnings showing a natural talent for wrangling horses to doubling for most ‘A’ list action men in the ’80’s and beyond, stuntman extraordinaire Vic’s legacy is ongoing and continues to dazzle audiences the world over.

Candidly written without a hint of egotism, Vic’s memoir is an unpretentious glimpse into the pratfalls of show-business.  His recollections come from a love of his craft and some of the events (some tinged with tragedy) are never less than compelling. No surprise then, that Vic should be a notable part of the Superman Movie franchise and devotes a chapter to his experiences, from wires snapping on flying rigs to arguments with a star determined to do his own stunts…

Vic made a rare public appearance at this years Memorabilia event in Birmingham only a few weeks ago and it was my intention to attend and get my copy of his book signed – sadly I missed my opportunity to meet him so thank god for my good friend Greg who obtained his autograph for me in a great pic of Vic during filming of Superman: The Movie…From the top, Vic’s auto pic, the book, and screengrabs taken from the Superman DVD documentaries showing Vic in action…

 

A Toupee That Flies…

My sincere thanks go to fellow SuperFan Alexei Lambley-Steel for allowing me the chance to own the little slice of cinematic history pictured above.

Culled from a package originally delivered to Hair Supervisor Joan White at Dovemead Productions on 23/06/82 containing three handmade hairpieces, pictured above is one attributed to Clark Kent stunt double Richard Hammet for Superman III.  This handmade, human hair, lace-fronted hairpiece has a surprisingly reddish-brown tint and although somewhat thinned, has survived well for a 30+ year old wig.

Due to its Tribble-like appearance when it arrived with me I sought to restore it to its original glory without compromising the authenticity of the piece.  To that end, a comb, a little water spray and a lot of patience paid dividends as the famous mild-mannered reporters locks fell neatly into place, a fantastic addition to my collection…

 

A Most Significant Collection…?

Auction House
Profiles in History
Chosen to sell the fabled
Dreier Hollywood/Pop Culture Memorabilia
Collection this summer…

Profiles in History have been selected to handle the sale of the celebrated Dreier Collection. Due to the size, scope and significance of the Dreier Collection, it will take nearly two years and several auctions to offer all of the material. The first installment of the Dreier Collection will be sold in July 2012.

Some of the highlights of this historic collection include:

The most significant Christopher Reeve “Superman” collection in private hands
Michael Jackson’s signature leather costume from his “Bad” tour
The most important Willy Wonka collection extant
Will Ferrell’s “Ron Burgundy” costume from Anchorman & others from Blades of Glory & Talladega Nights
Signature costumes and props from such legendary films and TV shows as Star Trek, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, X-Men, Batman and Austin Powers.

According to Joe Maddalena, CEO and President of Profiles in History, the importance of the Dreier Collection cannot be overstated. “This is a monumental offering, and it is a collection that commands every adjective you can think of – impeccable, amazing, phenomenal, diverse, top quality. Even the most seasoned collector will be blown away by the collection’s depth, breadth and level of importance”.

“Our family has been honored to house these treasures over the last 15 years, and now it is time to share them with the hobby,” said father and son collectors, Chad and Doug Dreier. “Joe Maddalena and the crew at Profiles In History were clearly the right choice to help us with the collection”.

As vendors for the archive of producer Ilya Salkind in 2007 – The team at Profiles In History have considerable experience with original and genuine artefacts from the Superman series. Though the Dreier collection is a revelation to me (despite its legendary status attributed here) I eagerly anticipate the level of significance of the Superman collection boasted. If you are thinking of investing in what will no doubt be some expensive lots – may I firstly recommend some research on Jason DeBord’s incomparable Original Prop Blog followed by a revision on my exhaustive article on Superman costumes.

Stay tuned for further updates as information becomes available…

 

Standen The Stand-In…

 

My sincere thanks to SuperFans Sebastian Columbo, Alexei Lambley-Steel and Seby Ravi for their assistance in solving the identity of the man standing with Christopher Reeve in the top image.

Amazingly, some 25 years later, actor/entertainer Donald Standen is still making public appearances as The Man Of Steel having been elected as Reeve’s personal choice of on-set double (as highlighted in the production used call sheet from the Metro Club scene, second pic) for Superman IV: The Quest For Peace. A familiar face on British TV thanks to his appearances in numerous commercials, (including the Superman themed one for Specsavers posted above) Donald is the face of Action Hero Events where he can be booked to appear in character for themed evenings, predominantly as his other persona, James Bond.

SUPERMANIA wishes Don all the best in his endeavours and is pleased to see him keeping the spirit alive…