Review: SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE Ignites a Web of Epic Awesomeness!
Get ready to embark on a hyper-multidimensional web-slinger adventure with Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse and prepare for a relentless surge of electric adrenaline that will leave you wanting more! This highly anticipated sequel takes us back into the mesmerizing depths of the Spider-Man multiverse, shattering my already high expectations and delivering a beautifully made visual symphony that will rock your world.
From the moment the opening credits hit, it's clear that directors Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, and Justin K. Thompson embarked on an ambitious mission to once again redefine animated storytelling with the help of writer and producers Phil Lord and Chris Miller. They masterfully continue the story of Miles Morales and navigate the treacherous currents of the Spider-Verse, weaving an intricate narrative that fans of the original film are going to love.
I’m a huge fan of the first film, Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse. It was my favorite film of 2018 and one of my favorite Spider-Man movies of all time. Well, this sequel is just as strong of a movie, and it might even be better. I’ll need to watch it a few more times before I make that decision.
As we swing alongside Miles Morales, wonderfully portrayed by Shameik Moore, we witness the growth and evolution of a true hero. Miles has matured since we last saw him, and his journey is elevated to new heights, exploring the weight of responsibility as a superhero and the pursuit of self-discovery as he continues to juggle his heroic responsibilities and his responsibilities with family and school.
The visual animation in the film is taken to a whole incredibly bold new level, and we are treated to a stunning array of animation techniques. The creative team really had fun with this one as they incorporate so many different art styles as each dimension has its own distinct visual language. Seriously, brace yourself for a sensory overload as the filmmakers fearlessly experiment with breathtaking visuals that defy conventional norms. They unleash an explosion of kaleidoscopic colors and mind-bending design, and every frame is a work of art, a vibrant tapestry that encapsulates the essence of true comic book storytelling.
The return of Jake Johnson as the lovably schlubby Peter B. Parker and Hailee Steinfeld as the charismatic Gwen Stacy is so much fun, and I love the characters, dynamic chemistry with Miles Morales. Meanwhile, the introduction of new characters, such as Oscar Isaac's enigmatic Spider-Man 2099, Daniel Kaluuya’s Hobart “Hobie” Brown, a.k.a. Spider-Punk, Andy Samberg as Scarlet Spider, Issa Rae as Jessica Drew, and more adds an exciting level of awesomeness. There are so many Spider-Man characters in this movie, and the handful of them that are actually utilized in the story are great!
I also really enjoyed the villain of the story, The Spot, who was voiced by Jason Schwartzman. He started out as such an amusing and loveable villain, but as the story progressed he evolved into something quite sinister and menacing.
The movie also propels the audience into a whirlwind of incredibly awesome action sequences and every action set-piece is a breathtaking display of kinetic energy. The creative team skillfully captures the fluidity and agility of all the movements of the Spider-Man characters, as they effortlessly leap, flip, and web-sling through the air. The action is fast-paced and relentless and filled with exhilarating acrobatic maneuvers that help in making the epic fight and chase sequences so damn exciting!
Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse is a radical blend of humor, heart, and complete awesomeness. It’s an animated cinematic achievement that is going to take you on a wild ride, and I can’t wait for the next film to be released! The story will continue with Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse, and I have no doubt it will be just as great!
If you liked the first movie, you’re gonna love this sequel!
