|
Re: Luthor keeping Otis around.
As an adult I rationalize it as vanity and security.
Sure he's a screw up, but he idolizes/worships Lex and Lex never needs to worry about Otis backstabbing him and taking over, or making time with his moll.
Also, narcissism. Lex will always feel confident of his superiority in his presence- mentally, physically, socially.
Lex also has a strong sadistic streak (much more embellished in the extended TV cut scenes). They dialed that back (wisely, IMO) in the theatrical cut, but there are still echos of it. Lex knows he will screw up, and he enjoys delivering punishment.
I get that popular opinion is that he's too clownish for a "serious" take on the material, but for some reason he's never bothered me. I think Donner, and some smart editing choices, is able to straddle the line with the overall tone, that allows room for a (as in singular) character like that.
|
