Across the Spider-Verse Review: Amazing or a Dud?
We went to see Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse in theaters last weekend. The highly anticipated sequel to a very well-received Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse from 2018. And I should say our expectations were easily met. This was a brilliant movie. That’s it. Done. No? Do I have to write hundreds of more words? Ok. Let’s get into the nitty gritty of this movie.
Sony Pictures Animation is on Fire
The movie is directed by Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, and Justin K. Thompson. The cast includes Shameik Moore as Miles Morales/Spider-Man, Hailee Steinfeld as Gwen Stacy/Spider-Woman, Jake Johnson as Peter B. Parker/Spider-Man, and Oscar Isaac as Miguel O’Hara/Spider-Man 2099. Sony introduced us to their now critically acclaimed animation style first in 2018 with Into the Spider-Verse. We were instantly stunned then. And we continue to be amazed at the diverse animation/art styles in Across the Spider-Verse. And if they continue with this trend in Beyond the Spider-Verse, the third movie planned in this trilogy, this would immediately become the best Spider-Man movie trilogy.
5 Reasons Why Across the Spider-Verse Swings into Spider-Man Hall of Fame
- “Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse” is a hysterical and unexpected new spin on the infinite self-replication of Marvel Comics IP and its most reliable hero. It’s a sequel that takes the franchise in new directions, with fresh ideas and a bold vision unlike anything else. It might not be the best-ever Spider-Man sequel, that honor goes to Spider-Man 2 by Raimi, but it’s a close second.
- The film is a visual feast that takes full advantage of the possibilities of animation. It’s a stunning and immersive experience unlike anything else, with vibrant colors, dynamic camera work, and breathtaking action sequences that will leave you in awe. This time we get to explore the other dimensions more and one of the ways the movie differentiates the universes is by their distinct art and animation style. I have to say Gwen’s universe of watercolor art is my favorite.
- The voice cast is excellent. The actors bring their characters to life with great performances that are full of personality and emotion. They’re able to convey the humor, heart, and drama of the story with ease, making you care about the characters and their journey. I’m really enjoying Shameik’s depiction of Miles.
- The movie tackles different themes, storylines, and ideas. It’s not just a superhero movie, but also a coming-of-age story, a multiverse adventure, and a family drama. It explores complex issues like identity, loss, and responsibility in a way that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. Without going into too much detail Miles is faced with a difficult choice and we as the audience are presented with very clear reasons to support either side of the choice.
- The movie is committed to the emotional reality of its characters. It’s not afraid to explore its characters’ complex emotions and relationships, showing them at their best and worst moments. Mile’s and Gwen’s relationships with their family and mentors take center stage in this movie. And that is what makes this movie so emotionally satisfying.
5 Minor Reasons Why Across the Spider-Verse might not tingle your Spider-Senses
- The movie is a bit too long. At 2 hours and 20 minutes, it can feel like it sometimes drags on, with some scenes feeling unnecessary or repetitive. Also, this movie ends on a cliffhanger. So we can’t help but think this would be a very good 4 or maybe 5-hour movie split in two.
- Some parts may go over kids’ heads. The movie has a lot of complex ideas and themes that may be difficult for younger viewers to understand, such as the emotional crux of the movie. The kids might understand all the multiversal lingo these days but it’s another thing to ask them to care about the emotional development of the various characters in the movie.
- The plot can be convoluted at times. With so many characters and storylines, it can be hard to keep track of everything happening, especially if you’re not familiar with the comics or previous movies.
- Not as good as the first movie. While “Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse” is still an excellent movie, it doesn’t quite live up to the high bar set by the first movie regarding storytelling or character development. Hopefully, the final movie in the trilogy can best both movies.
- Villains are not as memorable as in the first movie. While there are some interesting villains in “Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse”, they don’t quite have the same impact as Kingpin and Doc Ock from the first movie. Make no mistake, Spot is a good villain. Or would have been if we spent more time on him. But that’s sure to happen in the next movie. Right?
Conclusion
Although this movie has its foibles and doesn’t quite live up to its predecessor it is still a very good movie. Just make sure you’re in it for the full two and a half hours and do not expect a satisfying conclusion. Again, this movie has a cliffhanger ending. We would give this a solid 4.5/5. If you’re in Malaysia please visit here to see showtimes in a cinema near you
What did you guys think of the movie? Do you agree with us? Please let us know down in the comments. Also, check out our Little Mermaid review here.
