Episode Highlights

The Reel Eyes Podcast has once again proven that movie reviews can be more than just entertainment they can be an unexpected classroom for eye care professionals. In this episode, co-hosts Dr. Jacobi Cleaver and Dr. Jacob Wilson dissect the animated blockbuster Superman (2024), using the Man of Steel’s cinematic highs and lows to spark insightful discussions on real-world ocular conditions. From the urgent nature of optic nerve swelling to the long-term management of neurotrophic keratitis and the surprising dangers of solar retinopathy, the episode masterfully blends pop culture with clinical pearls, ensuring listeners walk away both entertained and clinically enriched.

Early in the episode, the co-hosts shift gears from cinematic spectacle to clinical expertise. Dr. Wilson reflects on his time mentoring fourth-year optometry students and recalls a fascinating case of unilateral optic nerve head edema—a red flag requiring emergent referral.

Meanwhile, Dr. Cleaver draws a parallel between the resilience of Superman and a patient of his battling recurrent herpetic anterior uveitis, pointing out that, like superheroes, these patients need long-term vigilance and realistic expectations.

“Sometimes in our profession, it can’t wait. It just cannot wait,” Dr. Cleaver says, highlighting the importance of timely action when vision or life is at stake.

The movie introduces us to Superman weakened and vulnerable—an unusual sight. This mirrors clinical moments when an otherwise healthy patient presents with optic nerve swelling. As Dr. Wilson recounts, the only immediate path to specialist care for many under Medi-Cal coverage in Los Angeles is the emergency room. A simple, signed letter from an optometrist can often fast-track access to neuroimaging or ophthalmologic evaluation.

The podcast reminds listeners that collaboration with local hospitals or academic partners—such as USC’s ophthalmology department in this case—can drastically improve patient outcomes when quick action is critical.

As Superman struggles with a cloned doppelgänger and public distrust, Dr. Cleaver recounts a similarly frustrating real-life challenge: managing herpetic anterior uveitis. He discusses the importance of early communication and patient education, especially when long-term oral antivirals or recurrences are part of the plan.

The symbolism between the film’s engineered villains and recurring clinical inflammation is sharp—both require careful monitoring, personalized management, and proactive intervention.

A standout moment in the movie involves a sharp object aimed at a Kaiju’s eye, prompting Dr. Cleaver to draw a clever clinical connection: corneal sensitivity testing. In a real-world example, he explains how a patient developed decreased sensitivity from recurrent herpetic disease, leading to neurotrophic keratitis (NK).

Dr. Cleaver goes on to detail his successful experience prescribing Oxervate (Cenegermin), praising its accessible patient support through DPE Connect. His message to colleagues: Don’t let cost be a barrier—if you suspect NK, act quickly and refer or prescribe appropriately.

“The turnaround is about a week, and the patient support is hands-off. All we had to do was fill out the form. DPE did the rest.”

From laser vision battles to near-blindness, Superman’s cinematic eye trauma cues a teaching moment on solar retinopathy and photoretinopathy. Dr. Wilson shares real cases—a 14-year-old girl who stared into a laser pointer, and a young woman who suffered retinal damage after glancing at her boyfriend welding.

They emphasize that photo retinopathy can also occur in surprising ways—from surgical light exposure to arc projectors in theaters. The takeaway? “Eye protection is essential,” especially in scenarios involving lasers, solar eclipses, and UV exposure.

As the Justice Gang intervenes in the geopolitical chaos unfolding in Superman, the hosts reflect on broader themes of justice in healthcare. Superman’s decision to act without borders mirrors the role of eye care professionals advocating for underrepresented patients.

Lex Luthor’s manipulation of the narrative echoes how misinformation—especially when amplified by social media—can distort public perception. Clinicians, like Superman, must remain steadfast in their mission to protect and serve, even when the spotlight turns unfavorable.

Superman’s struggle with an imperfect clone—matched strength for strength—becomes a metaphor for self-doubt and perseverance in professional practice.

Superman (2024) may be a superhero movie, but through the lens of the Reel Eyes Podcast, it becomes a case study in human resilience, ethical care, and the optical consequences of high-stakes battles—real or metaphorical.

From optic nerve swelling to NK, the parallels between Kryptonian crises and optometric cases make this episode a must-listen for clinicians looking to balance entertainment with education.