Black and White Heroes
I found this picture of a scene from I know not what movie thought provoking. The actor who played Ward Cleaver (Beaver’s father) conversing with the actor who played Superman and Clark Kent on what I consider the “best” of the Superman series, probably because, as a Boomer I can relate to it better.
Two “heroes” from the black and white era.
Ward Cleaver, the wise father figure, who was firm with his two boys, but fair and willing to admit when he’d made mistakes. A father who was raising his sons differently from the “children should be seen and not heard” era of his own father’s. The previous era being: take a strap to them raise them tough era. Of course, the series is a little out-dated culturally, but its heart is in the right place even now. Ward went off to work each day, played a little golf occasionally, read in his study, and dispersed advise to all in the household when appropriate.
Then there’s George Reeves (Christopher) Reeves predecessor eerily bearing the same last name. George, who died under mysterious circumstances: said to have taken his own life but who some believe was murdered, who played the roll of Superman for a generation of Boomers. Superman, who disguised as Clark Kent, fought a never ending battle for truth, justice, and the American way. Which usually meant keeping tabs on his friends at the Daily Planet and aiding Inspector Gordon, The previously mentioned friends who every episode to themselves into some sticky situation trying to cover a big story for the Daily Planet. As Superman receiving the accolades of all (and the animosity of all the bad guys in fedoras). Then as Clark Kent, having to self-deprecatingly accept teasing from Lois Lane (who hero-worshiped his alter ego).
Those of us who watched, enjoyed the triumph over evil maintained by Superman in that fictional world that didn’t necessarily pan out that way in our own. We could identify with his bumbling friends who (unlike us) could always depend on a super hero to rescue them from their travails. Relate to Clark who was secretly helping people but receiving only playful teasing about his cowardice, yet at the same time belaying that suspicion in the back of their minds that he (was) Superman. Identify with the common characters of the week who had a Superhuman enter their lives for a brief period. Maybe even have empathy for the crooks who always got their come comeuppance, justifying-ly so right before the closing credits. Shaking our heads in pity that they still had to try that final act of helpless defiance in shooting at the invulnerable Superman’s impervious chest. While he stood, with hands on hips, giving them a wise, pitying smile.
These, two of our champions, in a time before today when children know so much about everyone in our TMI times to uncover true heroes.