Christopher Reeve: 7 Words from My Wife Dana ‘Saved My Life’

Christopher Reeve was in a dark place after the equestrian accident that paralyzed him in 1995. He felt he had ruined not just his life but those of his family members as well. The beloved actor, known for his role as Superman, thought about giving up. He worried he wouldn’t be able to ski, sail, throw a ball to his son Will, or share intimate moments with his wife Dana.

However, Dana Reeve’s impactful words, “You’re still you. And I love you,” changed his outlook entirely. These seven words saved his life and renewed his will to live despite his circumstances.

On Monday, August 26, DC Studios unveiled the first trailer for Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story, a documentary that first premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January. This emotional narrative delves deep into Reeve’s life, showcasing how his family supported him unconditionally after his tragic accident.

Super/Man also includes touching recollections from Reeve’s three children, Matthew, Alexandra, and Will. His late wife, Dana, who passed away in 2006 from lung cancer, is also featured, providing a poignant tribute to her strength and love for her husband.

The film features intimate interviews with Reeve’s friends, including Whoopi Goldberg, Susan Sarandon, Jeff Daniels, and Glenn Close, sharing their personal memories and the impact Reeve had on their lives.

One particularly emotional moment in the film is shared by Reeve’s son Matthew, who recalls their final exchange before the accident. “We said goodbye, he gave this wave,” Matthew remembers. “That was the last time I saw him on his feet.”

The documentary uses extensive personal footage from the Reeve family, along with audio clips of the actor himself. This approach makes viewers feel like they are walking alongside Reeve through each stage of his journey, offering an intimate portrayal of his life before, during, and after the accident.

Will Reeve, speaking at Sundance in January, shared the family’s process in making the documentary. “We knew … if we were ever going to do this, it had to be the right time and the right team,” he said. They decided to share their home movies and sit for raw, vulnerable interviews, placing their trust in the film team to honor their story.

Will continued, “And the end result here is remarkable, so our trust has certainly been rewarded,” as the audience responded with applause.

Super/Man: The Christopher Reeve Story will be shown in select theaters on September 21, with an “Encore Presentation” on September 25, coinciding with Reeve’s birthday.