THWIP! and release—into the latest Spider-Man film; but it shouldn’t be classified as just another reboot because, trust me, it’s not. A whole new Spidey world gets its time on the big screen, and more than one dons the mask for the occasion.
This is the seventh film in the franchise since Toby Maguire first wore the mask in 2002, but this will easily become your favourite because Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is about to blow your world as they save theirs.
For those who don’t keep up with the comics or cartoons, or aren’t aware of the existence of a multiverse, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse reveals Marvel’s multiple dimensions alongside Miles Morales’ origin story. Here, Peter Parker (Chris Pine) isn’t the only web-slinger anymore. Get ready to meet Miles (Shamelk Moore), a sixteen-year-old boy from Brooklyn who incidentally gets bitten by a radioactive spider—proving that anybody has the potential to become Spider-Man. This new teenage superhero is the first bi-racial Spidey to grace the big screen and he’s going to go where no cinematic Spider-Man has ever gone before. It’s so much bigger than our web-head joining the Avengers!
Our hero’s villains are back but something extraordinarily strange is happening in New York; Peter Parker is unmasked after Spider-Man’s death is announced. But evil never ceases, and acclaimed actor Liev Schreiber hangs up his previous villainous Marvel character role as Sabretooth to tackle Kingpin—one of Spider-Man’s famous foes.
Miles is, of course, suddenly tasked with the responsibility of foiling Kingpin’s evil plan, which involves the interference of alternate dimensions. However, to the villain’s dismay, and Miles’ surprise, Spidey exists in each dimension, and there’s no telling who could be under the mask.
The film reveals Miles’ origin story and the origin stories of five other Spider-heroes too. What’s remarkable is that, despite having similar set powers which originated from the same source, they’re all different and unique—yet still equally lovable. But don’t get too comfortable with what defines “Spider-Man” yet, as Miles sports some never-before-seen Spidey powers and fights under the tutelage of Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson) and Spider-Gwen (Hailee Steinfeld). And while there are definitely more than seven versions of Spider-Man in the multiverse, it’s fantastic that Sony and Marvel are finally exploring the infinite possibilities that it can offer for the big screen.
It’s also no surprise that Spider-Verse is, by far, one of the most anticipated films of the year. After all, highly acclaimed directors Peter Ramsey, Robert Persichetti Jr. and Rodney Rothman are the masterminds behind the reins of this cinematic marvel. In addition, this is the first film collaboration between Marvel Entertainment, Sony Pictures Animation and Columbia Pictures. And for those disillusioned by Sony for their infamous The Emoji Movie, you definitely won’t want to miss out on, perhaps, the best Spider-Man film to date.
Filled with comedy, nostalgia and riveting action, the entire animation style of Spider-Verse is completely unique and acts as a perfect homage to Spider-Man’s comic book roots. With the inclusion of thought and word bubbles, it’s the perfect representation of what the comic book world were to look like if it were to meld with modern animation. This perfect blend of 2D and 3D makes Spider-Verse one of the most visually pleasing animated films I have ever seen.
Additionally, the film’s official soundtrack has some great beats—which feature a number of amazing artists. You’ll be jamming along to Post Malone and Swae Lee’s Sunflower for at least a week after your first film screening—it’s infectious.
Much like every other Marvel film, you’ll want to sit through the after credits. After gasping and chuckling (specifically in that order) at the fact that Nicholas Cage and John Mulaney can both state that they are, technically, Spider-Men, a post-credits teaser reveals a possible sequel of spin-off featuring another extremely well-known alternate Spider-Man. In addition, there’s a hilarious special treat for old-school Spidey fans.
Lastly, I want to take a minute to appreciate Stan Lee and all that he has done. The man was remarkable, and a legend for all of us. He gifted us with many beloved superheroes who inspired, taught and, most importantly, saved many of us. Spider-Man would never have existed without him and I’m certain that Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse would have made The Man proud. It’s amazing to see how Spider-Man has evolved over the decades and exhilarating to imagine the infinite possibilities this film has created for the beloved character.
For those who have followed the famous web-slinger’s adventures through the comics or cartoons , this film celebrates those roots and reminds us that Peter Parker isn’t alone in the Spider-Verse. For those who are unfamiliar with the multiverse, prepare for heart-felt origin stories and a crazy adventure that is jam-packed with thrilling action. There’s simply no reason that this film shouldn’t be marvel-ed by all.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is in cinemas now.