When Warner Brothers began production on the first modern comic book film, it wanted to leave the genre's slapdash past behind it. Previously, superheroes were relegated to melodramatic cliffhangers or campy television shows. Superman aimed to be different. So when it came time to cast the character of Jor-El, the selfless Kryptonian who spares his son from the Krypton holocaust by sending him to earth, there was only one person they thought of- Marlon Brando.
While the eccentric Brando had seen better days, he would bring instant credibility to the production and he knew it. At first, he only wanted to provide the voice for Jor-El, who he thought could be represented on the screen by a bagel or toaster. (Sadly, that's not a joke.) After being convinced that this would be confusing for viewers, he agreed to play the part in exchange for $2 Million up front and 11.5% of the gross. A staggering sum for the 1970's and possibly a figure Mr. Brando assumed would be rejected. The producers accepted this deal and Marlon Brando made history as the modern comic book film genre was created.
In the end, Mr. Brando earned $19 Million when the box office was finally totaled up. Superman was a sensation, earning all involved staggering sums of money. Adjusted for inflation and considering his short time on screen, Mr. Brando arguably earned the highest salary ever paid for what amounts to a small cameo performance.
