Superman's Solid Choice: Analyzing the Impact of 'Save Martha'

Many viewers found it notable when Superman asked Batman to 'save Martha'. This scene has sparked a lot of discussion about the film's writing and character development, with some fans appreciating the emotional weight of the moment while others criticized it for feeling forced or melodramatic. Overall, it became one of the more talked-about aspects of the film, illustrating the complexities of both character relationships and the storytelling choices made in the film.

The Emotional Weight

Bob Alton's perspective on why Superman's plea to save Martha instead of Martha is more profound than it might initially appear sheds light on the multifaceted dynamics at play. While Bruce's mother, Martha Kane, was killed when he was just a child, his relationship with Superman transcends the typical 'alien vs. human' divide. Superman sees himself as an invincible alien, whereas Bruce, a child witnessing his mother's brutal murder, feels helpless and scared.

Superman's request to 'save Martha' takes Bruce back to that moment of desperation and fear. By using the same name, Martha, Superman appeals to a shared humanity. By invoking the same person, he humanizes the situation, connecting the two characters on a profound level. This name connection provides Bruce with an opportunity he never had - a chance to save 'his' mother. Even if Clark's mother was saved, Batman gets a small sense of closure knowing he saved her under the right circumstances.

Character Development and Stewart's Insight

Rod Stewart's explanation delves into the nuanced character dynamics. Throughout the fight, Batman has been telling Superman that he is a threat, emphasizing that he is not human, not a god, and not special. He views Superman as an inhuman monster who could destroy the planet if he wanted to. Therefore, it is not logical for Superman to assume that Batman would sympathize with his mother, whom Batman would consider another inhuman monster.

However, Superman hopes that Batman would find 'Martha' an exception and that asking him to save her could evoke an emotional response. The reason 'Martha' resonates more than 'Ellen' is that it evokes the same emotional response as his mother, Martha Kent. This emotional link is essential for Batman, as it is for any human, to pause and consider the gravity of the situation. If Batman were to save 'Martha,' it would also be a moment of redemption for himself, as he would be shown mercy for his perceived monstrosity.

Have Some Integrity

Lastly, it is essential to compare this scene with other moments in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Imagine if Superman said 'Save my mother!' or 'You’re letting him kill my mother!' instead of 'Save Martha!'. The scene would likely end with Batman saying 'Good! One less alien I have to kill!' and stabbing him. It is not that such a scenario is impossible, but it would be a much colder and less emotionally resonant moment. The scene with 'Ellen' is similarly logic-defying, and it would only deepen the disconnect between Batman and the alien.

While it is true that in Avengers: Civil War, Tony Stark's character development involves him killing a teammate, the circumstances of that moment are vastly different from Superman's plea to Batman. Stark's decision to kill Bucky was driven by a vested personal interest, even though it was made under a fictional governmental framework. In contrast, Superman's plea to save Martha relies on a shared emotional connection and a moment of humanity.

So, while the name 'Martha' may seem arbitrary, its inclusion is anything but. It is a clever move that adds depth to both the characters and the narrative. Superman's plea to save Martha is a moment of humanization and emotional weight, making his choice to ask Batman to save her a poignant and impactful moment in the film.