Lois Lane: Still in love with Superman
In conceptualising Lois Lane, did you reference Margot Kidder's portrayal in the Richard Donner film of 1978?
I tried to avoid that, firstly because I thought she did such a terrific job and I didn't need that pressure on myself. And also because I think this Lois Lane has so many different elements she did not have in the past. Although her core is essentially the same -- she is still Lois Lane, the fast-talking, feisty, intelligent woman -- she has changed; she has more different elements in her life than she had before.
Did Superman mean something to you before you got involved in this film?
Yes. I didn't grow up with the comics, but I do remember when I first saw the film, and even at a young age, what he represented to me, what he still represents to me, is just this central goodness, someone who stands for truth and justice as they say in the film.
I think that's what I love about this film. They used Marlon Brando in this film, from the original -- that part of his speech where he says human beings essentially are good, you have to lead them like children, show them the way -- and I believe we are at a time when we need to be reminded of that. I really do believe in the essential humanity, the goodness, of people.
It was a privilege to do this film -- I felt a huge responsibility and a great amount of pressure just because everyone in the world knows and loves these characters so much. In this film, they have progressed and you really get to see their inner lives, so it was so much fun to play.