Last week, after half a decade of waiting with bated breath, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse finally made its screen debut. And ever since it seems like its all anyone has been talking about. It's no small feat to follow-up an Oscar-winning film, especially one as critically acclaimed as Into the Spider-Verse. So did Sony manage to do the impossible and make a worthwhile sequel? Let's find out.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse was originally supposed to come out in 2020, but due to COVID-19, it got pushed back to 2022, and then once again to mid 2023. So the movie has been in development hell for quite some time, but I think it's safe to say that the wait was worth every second.
Despite being a fairly recent movie, Into the Spider-Verse remains one of the most beloved Marvel/Sony films from both critics and audiences everywhere. It has not even existed for and it's already common to hear people call it their favorite Spider-Man movie, superhero movie, or just favorite movie in general. And after my recent trip to the theater to view the sequel, I suspect Across the Spider-Verse will endure a similar fate. Everything that made the original so great is still present in the sequel, lovable characters, an intimidating villain, a compelling story, and absolutely spellbinding animation.
When it comes to visuals, there is simply no beating Across the Spider-Verse. Every single frame is bursting with life and vibrancy. Even the few times where color isn't present, you'll never find yourself getting bored of the endlessly creative, eye-catching visuals. You can truly tell just how much effort was put into every scene. Every single artist who worked on this film has my respect and admiration, including the 14 year old, Preston Mutanga, who added Lego stop-motion to the film. Surely, an impressive thing to put on your college applications. Say what you want about the movie, but you can't deny that it's an absolute feast for the senses.
Across the Spider-Verse is also amazing in terms of story. Not only do we get to continue Miles Morales' journey, but we also see a lot more of Spider-Gwen than we did in the first film. I would have liked to see more from Peter B. Parker and Spider-Man 2099, but considering there's a sequel coming out next year, I'm still holding out hope.
Across the Spider-Verse also has a uniquely terrifying building in the form of The Spot, who starts off as a meek, awkward, "villain of the week" but grows more and ore sinister as the film progresses. The dynamic between Spot and Miles is one of the most original we've seen come from Marvel in recent years. His origin story is wild and unexpected, and you'll have no idea what he's about to do next. The overall writing in the film is pretty amazing, every time you think you know what's about to happen, you are instantly proven wrong. Writers, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Dave Callaham really went above and beyond with their creativity. By the end of the movie, previous image you had of Spider-Man will be completely turned on its head.
Across the Spider-Verse is also a great film for representation. The first film gave us an afro-latino protagonist, however the sequel offers so much more. Not only do we get the same protagonist, but we also get another latino character as Spider-Man 2099, a Black Spider-Woman, Spider-Man India, and a Black Spider-Punk. It's truly a remarkable film for diversity and I hope the representation brings a smile to all the young POC fans out there. Gwen is even seen sporting a "PROTECT TRANS KIDS" flag in her room, which is very subtle way of showing support but I'm sure it can mean a lot to the Trans community who come to see the movie. In a time full of so much discrimination, Across the Spider-Verse is a beacon of POC joy and representation, I just hope we get to see more of it in the future.
Across the Spider-Verse also marked the return of composer, Daniel Pemberton, who did the original film's score. Both the score and soundtrack for the movie are just as good as they were before. Pemberton's unique style of synth adds so much to the overall atmosphere of the film.
Not to spoil anything, but Across the Spider-Verse ends on a pretty monumental cliffhanger for the characters. Leaving audiences across the country shocked and instantly wanting more. Luckily, they will not have to wait another 5 years for the sequel. The third installment: Beyond The Spider-Verse is scheduled to released on March 29th, 2024, and judging by the unbelievable reception the sequel has gotten, it's safe to say that audiences everywhere will be eagerly waiting to see how the story of Miles Morales concludes.