Shopping for Superman – Official Trailer

‘Shopping for Superman’ – A Powerful Documentary Exploring the Struggle of Local Comic Shops in a Digital World

The comic book industry has been a cornerstone of pop culture for decades, but in recent years, local comic shops—the heart and soul of comic book fandom—have been fighting a losing battle. Shopping for Superman is a compelling and emotional documentary that illuminates the uphill struggle faced by these beloved small businesses.

Throughout the film, viewers are taken on a 50-year journey, tracing the rise and decline of local comic stores. The documentary revisits the industry’s golden era when comic shops flourished in the early 1980s and reached their peak in the mid-1990s. It was a time when collectors eagerly flipped through long boxes in search of rare finds, and Wednesday was a sacred day for new comic book releases.

However, the landscape began to shift as Hollywood’s embrace of the superhero genre sparked a billion-dollar industry—one that ironically pulled fans away from the very shops that cultivated their love for the characters. Blockbuster franchises like The Avengers, Spider-Man, and Batman drove superheroes into the mainstream, but while box office numbers soared, comic shop sales plummeted. The once-loyal customer base began to dwindle, as many collectors aged out of the hobby or turned to digital and online retailers for convenience. Meanwhile, younger generations, captivated by cinematic adaptations, showed less interest in the source material itself.

Shopping for Superman offers an unflinching look at the industry’s current state, highlighting the harsh realities of diminished sales, the impact of the global pandemic, and the increasing dominance of online retail giants. With Amazon and digital platforms offering cheaper prices and instant access, local comic shops find themselves struggling to compete.

The documentary doesn’t just chronicle the decline—it also celebrates the passion and resilience of the people fighting to keep these shops alive. Store owners, industry experts, and lifelong fans share their stories, revealing the emotional and cultural significance of these small businesses. They aren’t just retail spaces—they’re community hubs where friendships are forged, creativity is sparked, and fandom thrives.

As Shopping for Superman poses the poignant question, “Can our local comic shops be saved?” it also serves as a love letter to these disappearing sanctuaries. It calls on viewers to recognize the importance of supporting local businesses and preserving the physical spaces that keep comic book culture alive.

Why You Should Watch

Whether you’re a lifelong comic book collector, a casual fan of superhero films, or simply someone interested in small business survival stories, Shopping for Superman is a must-watch. It offers a nostalgic trip through comic book history while delivering a sobering yet hopeful message about the future of local comic shops.