Catherine Zeta-Jones’ Mummy Replacement Is Officially Back on Streaming

A hero predating Superman

Created by Lee Falk, The Phantom comic strip began in 1936. Its title character is widely recognized as the first costumed superhero in comic format, appearing before Superman and Batman.

The character later appeared in adaptations including the animated series Defenders of the Earth. Paramount Pictures brought him to theaters in a live-action feature starring Billy Zane as Kit Walker.

The Phantom inherits a legacy

In the film, the Phantom identity passes from father to son. Kit takes up the mantle after his father is murdered by criminal Quill, played by James Remar.

Rather than focusing on the conventions of later superhero films, The Phantom draws on old-fashioned adventure serials. Its swashbuckling tone recalls the action style associated with Indiana Jones and The Mummy.

Cast and old-school adventure

Kristy Swanson plays Diane Palmer, Kit’s courageous love interest, while Zeta-Jones portrays Sala, leader of an all-female group of pilots called the Sky Bandits. Treat Williams plays villain Xander Drax.

The film’s appeal also comes from its brisk pacing, practical effects and stunt work. It used trained wolves for Devil, the Phantom’s companion, while its computer-generated effects reflect the mid-1990s and have aged less well.

A film with lasting charm

Director Simon Wincer embraces the story’s campy visuals and dialogue, with the cast leaning into its colorful, old-fashioned style. The globe-trotting plot adds to the adventure. The Phantom was not a major critical or commercial success when released, but the article describes it as having aged remarkably well. Its return to streaming gives viewers another chance to revisit the comic-book adventure.