But if my choices were traditional Superman or Superman: Red Son, I'd have to go with Traditional Supes. Ideally, I'd be all for both.

But I still love the idea.

Every comic book movie based on a DC comic is Warner Brothers — as Warner Brothers owns DC Comics.

Nora Zehetner is an inspired choice. In the two roles I've seen her play (Brothers Bloom and Brick) she plays a definite femme fatale. I think the femme fatale character would reflect the paranoia and back stabbing of Stalinist Russia. You might want to get in her arms, but you have to expect to see a sharp dagger in either hand. At least that is always how I envisioned Stalin's Russia.

Off Topic – If anyone ever decided to remake Double Imdemnity <again> I think she would make an excellent Barbara Stanwyck. Not overtly hot (Though she is easy on the eyes.) and making up for any deficiency in looks with sheer suduction.

Since I haven't read this book I don't know if Lavrentiy Beria is portraited? From your description it appears Millar uses Stalin's son instead. Historically, Beria made Himmler look like a pastry cook. Perhaps Beria might make a better movie character? (Again, I haven't read the comic so perhaps Millar incorporated the best (Worst?) aspects of Beria into the character of Stalin's son.)

I think a really interesting take on this book would be to have Superman work under Beria in the NKVD. A kind of Russian Super Assassin. Perhaps his first “origin” mission might be to track down Trotsky? A take on the opening of Casino Royale showing Bonds first kill. This could be the Red Superman's first kill thereby establishing that this IS NOT your average Superman. (Who could be slimy enough to portrait Beria? Perhaps Ricardo Darín? Granted he is Argentinian and not Russian but with the rest of the cast <With the exception of Konstantin Khabensky.> being American I'm sure Darin could learn the English.) Darin plays a conniving conman in Nine Queens (One of my personal favorite films.) with just the right mix of smile-as-I-stab-you-in-the-back charm and brazen disregard for the rest of humanity.

Before you protest, yes, I just realize I turned the movie into yet another Bourne-esque film. I love the Bourne films.

A good call on Konstantin Khabensky. Despite any flaws that Night Watch and Day Watch might have (And I love both films.) I think the acting is generally excellent. I'd love to see these actors get more U.S. exposure.

Again, thanks for an excellent column.

Long time reader, first time caller. Just wanted to say that I'm a big fan of this new column of yours. Very creative. Also, Superman Red Son sounds badass.