The Death of Superman Animated Movie out This August; Special Features Announced

Back in 2007, the very first DC Universe Animated Original Movie was released: Superman Doomsday. With a runtime of just 75 minutes, the team behind the action-packed animated film had to make some creative changes to the adaptation of the classic Death and Return of Superman storyline, which is totally understandable. Now, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment and DC Entertainment are revisiting the iconic tale and they’re giving the story two animated films: The Death of Superman and Reign of the Supermen (2019). This is also how the excellent adaptation of The Dark Knight Returns was handled. Hopefully, this means more two-parters are on the horizon. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for a Knightfall or Sinestro Corps War two-parter. Anyway, these upcoming movies will take place in the universe that was formed back in 2014’s Justice League: War, so it obviously won’t be a 100% faithful adaptation. Still, two films about the death of Superman and the aftermath of such a loss has a lot of potential. Plus, the press release does promise that these movies will feature "many of the moments and characters that fans hold dear to their hearts." 

The first part of this animated story – which is co-directed by Sam Liu and Jake Castorena; written by Peter J. Tomasi (read his work, people!) – will be available to watch on Digital July 24, and the Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray Deluxe Gift Set (which includes a war-torn Superman figurine - see below), Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD will go on sale August 7. See below for the full list of special features, including a first look at the second part of the story, Reign of the Supermen.

The Death of Superman: The Brawl That Topped Them All (Featurette) – "Experience the battle between Superman and Doomsday like never before as creators of the iconic comic and the new film explore the nuances of “The Greatest Fight” with the help of a martial arts expert."

A Sneak Peek at DC Universe's Next Animated Movie, Reign of the Supermen – "An exciting look at the next film in the two-part saga that brings the epic and emotional story of a world without the Man of Steel to life."
*This is the only special feature on the DVD version*

From the DC Comics Vault: Legion of Superheroes, “Dark Victory: Part 1” – "After eliminating Imperiex, Brainiac 5 takes over his army and plans to take over the universe. With Superman thought to be dead, the other Legionnaires must stop him before it is too late!"

From the DC Comics Vault: Legion of Superheroes, “Dark Victory: Part 2” – "The Legion faces Imperiex in a final battle, while a traitor lurks in their midst."

Here’s most of the cast:

• Jerry O’Connell (Superman)
• Rebecca Romijn (Lois Lane)
• Rainn Wilson (Lex Luthor)
• Jason O’Mara (Batman)
• Rosario Dawson (Wonder Woman)
• Shemar Moore (Cyborg)
• Nathan Fillion (Green Lantern)
• Matt Lanter (Aquaman)
• Christopher Gorham (The Flash)
• Nyambi Nyambi (Martian Manhunter)
• Rocky Carroll (Silas Stone)
• Patrick Fabian (Hank Henshaw)
• Toks Olagundoye (Cat Grant)
• Max Mittleman (Jimmy Olsen)
• Charles Halford (Bibbo Bibbowski)
• Cress Williams (John Henry Irons)

Still haven't seen the trailer yet? Or maybe you just want to watch it all over again? Here you go!

Thanks for checking out Comic Book Conversations! Follow me on Twitter for site updates.