Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is the latest attempt by Sony to bring our favorite web-slinger(s) to the big screen. Co-produced by Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, none other than the brains behind The Lego Movie, this spiderman incarnation is finally the one which really exceeds all expectations after a long history of consistent disappointment by Sony, the most recent of which was Venom. Homecoming was certainly good, though, the credit for that probably goes to Marvel. Into the Spider-Verse is however really exceeds all expectations with its jaw-dropping visuals, memorable characters, and a compelling storyline.
The movie is fairly complex blending a massive cast of characters with different animation styles, multiple villains, and a storyline that hops dimensions. On the story side of things, we follow the adventures of thirteen-year-old Miles Morales, who gets bitten by a genetically engineered spider. However, the story just gets wilder from this point on as Kingpin, the main baddie, creates tears in the space-time continuum and gains access to an infinite supply of alternate Earths, ultimately pulling different versions of Spider-Man into our own world. We see five different Spide-Person from different universes, each with their own unique personality. Each new Spider-Person is introduced with an amusing montage, offering a glimpse at the respective hero’s origin story. Even with so many story threads, the narrative felt cohesive though, with a tightly written script. The movie is surprisingly hilarious without devolving into low-brow humor as Sony movies commonly tend to do. All the jokes hit the mark and there is rarely a dull moment throughout the film.
Peter, Gwen & Miles
The movie gets serious on various notes though. The character of Miles is very well written and his character arc is well realized, allowing in strong Character development, as we learn more about him and his family before we begin with the superhero stuff. This results in a multi-dimensional hero, which we don’t see often on the big screen nowadays, despite the plethora of superhero movies. Miles’ story is set apart from previous incarnations on several counts. Not only he has a unique personality that differentiates him from the other Spider-Persons, but even the soundtrack accompanying him ties into his love of music and hip-hop rather than relying solely on a classical Orchestra. Even’ style of clothing is unique, with his red-and-white Nikes and spraypainted costume.
The most unique and the most brilliant aspect of the movie that steals the spotlight though is none other than the animation. It’s like watching comic book panels being brought to life. To say that the animation is spectacular will be a severe understatement. We see old-style comic book graphic techniques come to life with digital wizardry. We get vibrant colors, sound effects, thought-boxes & yellow boxes as the character talk or react.
Miles’ Spidey in Into The Spider-Verse
In fact, every spider-person has a different style of animated reactions. The web-slinging sequences are nothing short of thrilling. Even small touches like Text for sounds, Wiggly lines for the tingling of spider senses, electronic bursts signaling the presence of interdimensional static add up to a wholesome visual experience, unlike anything that our eyes have witnessed before. With most animated movies now resembling like Pixar, this certainly feels like a breath of fresh air.
The visually dynamic Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is probably the most anticipated movies of the year and it certainly doesn’t disappoint. It doesn’t feel stale even in abundance of superhero movies that we have today. It is a complete movie that can be enjoyed by kids and parents of all ages. The film is filled with amazing cameos, whimsical & humorous callbacks to old Spider-Man cartoons, comic books, and even video games. It also has an amazing end credits scene which sets up possible sequels.
The pacing of the plot is perfect and absorbing. It has become my favorite spiderman film since Sam Raimi’s adaptation in 2002. Most importantly it has something which most superhero movies seem to have lost: Fun. Even the climactic showdown is a crazy psychedelic experience. Miles journey from your everyday high school student to hero is one of the best and most vibrant Spider-Man adaptation till date. Movies such as these make me feel that this is the best time to be alive for a comic book fan.
Do yourself Favour and see it in IMAX 3D to experience the amazing thrill-ride that is Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Also please stay for the end credit scene. It is worth your time and money.
Miles Morales in Spider-Man Into The Spider-Verse
A FAIR BIT OF WARNING: Sony being Sony spoiled one of the best moments of the film and the end sequence by releasing the clips on YouTube, even though it didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the film, it is still called spoiler for a very valid reason. For those who hate spoilers: It is better to stay away from Youtube until you see the movie.
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