In 2018, “Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse” took the world by storm and was hailed as one of the greatest animated films of all time. Its unique visual style, coupled with a heartfelt and emotionally charged story, captured the hearts of audiences around the globe. Now, its highly anticipated sequel, “Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse,” takes us on another exhilarating journey through the multiverse. Directed by Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, and Justin K. Thompson, the film expands on the concept of the multiverse while delivering stunning visuals and a captivating narrative.
A Multidimensional Adventure:
Set just over a year after the events of the first film, “Across The Spider-Verse” follows Miles Morales (voiced by Shameik Moore), who has embraced his role as his universe’s Spider-Man. However, his newfound confidence as a superhero begins to strain his relationships with his parents, who struggle to understand his secrecy and withdrawal. When Spider-Gwen (Hailee Steinfeld) pays him a visit, Miles finds himself embarking on a multidimensional adventure, as they team up to stop the supervillain Spot (voiced by Jason Schwartzmann).
Visually Dazzling:
Similar to its predecessor, “Across The Spider-Verse” impresses with its breathtaking visuals. Each spider-person showcased in the film boasts their unique animation style, pushing the boundaries of creativity. Gwen’s world is brought to life with vibrant purples and pinks, painted in soft brush strokes, while Spider-Punk (voiced by Daniel Kaluuya) exudes a chaotic energy that befits his anarchist persona. Directors Dos Santos, Powers, and Thompson effortlessly create visually striking scenes that leave audiences in awe.
Sensory Overload:
While the film is a visual feast, it also becomes a sensory overload at times. The rapid pace and constant bombardment of visuals and exposition can be overwhelming and exhausting. “Across The Spider-Verse” rarely provides moments for characters and the narrative to breathe, leaving little time for audiences to fully absorb and process the spectacle before them. However, this relentless energy does serve to keep viewers engaged and on the edge of their seats throughout the film.
Fan Service and Definitive Spider-Man:
The sequel does indulge in fan service, but it does so in a brilliant and satisfying manner. Numerous references to previous iterations of Spider-Man can be spotted upon multiple viewings, adding a layer of depth for long-time fans. “Across The Spider-Verse” may very well be the definitive Spider-Man film, as it effectively captures the essence of the character and his multiverse counterparts. The film strikes a harmonious balance in its portrayal of the multiverse, creating a rewarding experience for fans of the franchise.
Boldness and Sequel Success:
The film fearlessly explores the essence of being a superhero, specifically Spider-Man, and manages to answer that question before challenging it once again. This boldness is reminiscent of the first film and showcases the creativity and innovation that sets “Into The Spider-Verse” apart from other sequels. In an era dominated by remakes and endless franchises, “Across The Spider-Verse” stands out as a shining example of how to create a sequel that remains relevant and exemplary.
A Part of a Bigger Story:
Like many Hollywood films today, “Across The Spider-Verse” is only the first part of a larger story. While this may leave some viewers longing for a more conclusive ending, it effectively sets the stage for the next installment. Just as “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Endgame” were part of a complete story arc, this film leaves audiences eagerly anticipating the continuation of the
