Celebrating Our Super/Man
This past week, I had the pleasure and honor of joining Alexandra, Matthew, and Will Reeve at the 40th edition of the Sundance Film Festival, where “Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story” held its premiere and a special spot at the opening of the festival. The documentary – and the audience’s emotional reaction – was exhilarating. As we approach the 20th anniversary of Christopher’s passing this October, I hope this extraordinary film provides an opportunity to ensure that spinal cord injury is visible on a world stage – prominence that is too rarely afforded to those living with disabilities.
Having loved Christopher and Dana Reeve immensely, I was moved to tears as they appeared in never-before-seen footage, as herculean as I remember, but more vulnerable and raw than ever before as well. My career took off under the tutelage of the Reeves and the passion I found in our shared cause has become my life’s work. To hear Christopher’s voice again, reading from his memoirs and reminding the world of life lessons that come from strength in uncertainty, it is clear that, once again, he is speaking directly to us to ignite the world to action.
I’m excited for this film, directed by Ian Bonhôte and Peter Ettedgui, to show the world who Christopher was, because while he is known as Superman, those who knew him personally remember him as so much more than an exquisite actor. Christopher was an extraordinary father, a loving husband, a human rights advocate, an avid adventurer, an environmentalist, an author, a director, and an accomplished pianist. He was also a pilot who made two solo trips across the Atlantic, an outdoor enthusiast who skied, sailed, scuba dived, played tennis, and canoed alone into the wilderness. And in the last years of his enormous life, he put a face to an injury that has isolated many into near invisibility – but as he and Dana bravely taught us, spinal cord injury and paralysis should not lead to a diminished quality of life.
Ultimately, the film is not about looking back so much as it is about continuing forward with the drive and spirit that Christopher modeled and instilled in us all. It is the hope of the Reeve family, our Foundation, and the entire community to which we serve, that this documentary leads to important discussions about disability. From the unvarnished truths of family tragedy to the national discourse and legislation that impacts all our lives, Christopher and Dana’s work is far from finished.
Today, the Reeve legacy continues with your support and through the dedication and perseverance of our community, partners, staff, and the Board of Directors on which Matthew, Alexandra and Will serve. There are countless ways to get involved – become an advocate, join our events, donate or fundraise together with us, and more. Please, join us, and heed Christopher’s call.
Maggie Goldberg
President and CEO, Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
