“What if a child from another world crash-landed on Earth, but instead of becoming a hero to mankind, he proved to be something far more sinister?“

I loved this movie!

 Take the story of Clark Kent’s childhood and discovery of his powers, and flip it completely on its head.. that’s essentially what you have in Brightburn.  Taking a story so familiar to many of us, and putting an entirely different spin on things is exactly the strength of this film.

Written by Brian and Mark Gunn (brothers of James) and directed by David Yarovesky (The Hive), they take the very familiar story of an alien baby landing in Kansas – raised by adoptive parents – who goes on to discover that he holds great powers.

Whereas Clark Kent goes on to use his powers for good, and becomes the American icon Superman, Brandon Breyer (played perfectly by relative newcomer Jackson A Dunn) is motivated by something far more sinister, and aims to use his newfound power to “take the world”.

Brightburn moves fast, and wastes no time in getting started.  I was literally engrossed from about 9 minutes into the movie.  It’s a bold move from the creators to offer such a different take on the superhero genre in this, the golden age of superhero cinema – And it feels so fresh as a result.

Taking the elements of heroes that we are now accustomed to, and mixing in a healthy dose of horror makes for a truly enjoyable viewing experience – and nothing is sugar coated.  There are a couple of pretty gory scenes…

This takes place in Brightburn, Kansas, and personally, I like to think that it all unfolds just a short drive from Smallville, Kansas – while the adolescent Clark Kent is simultaneously discovering his powers – rather than in some sort of alternate universe.

Again, I loved this movie, particularly in the current climate of popcorn superhero flicks – it’s well done, original, and well worth your time.

9/10

Review by Rick Trewin