What makes the ones that do work are character flaws in the hero and general depth in the "alter ego" lifestyles. When you get past the Lois Lane and "sent from a distant planet", what else is there to really explore about Superman? How Nolan will possibly make it interesting in live action form will be a challenge. Really, the most cinematically rewarding parts of this character have always been the youth portion. After that, it gets really bland quickly.