Hey gang, Valkor here. When Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse was released in 2018, I didn't rush out to see it as I wasn't feeling it. However, I like the Miles Morales character, and anything involving Spidey is worth checking out. I gave that film a run and loved every minute of it! Now the sequel, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, is upon us. And it's everything a sequel should be: it tells a better story, has way more action, and it's an experience you won't want to miss. Check it out! And some spoilers ahead!
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse starts off with a Gwen “Spidey Gwen” Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld) origin story. After that, we continue our story with Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) as he struggles to balance out a life of being Spider-Man as well as keeping up with his grades and doing right by his folks. When a new villain, The Spot (Jason Schwartzman) enters the mix, it starts a multiversal chain reaction that will take Miles, Gwen, and the return of Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson) on a roller coaster ride deep into the heart of the Spider-Verse. From there, a variety of Spider-Men from all across the Spider-Verse are shown to us, led by Miguel O'Hara, also known as Spider-Man 2099 (Oscar Isaacs). We learn that "canon" exists and that Miles' error (the spider that bit him wasn't supposed to) is part of what makes things go wrong. We also learn that in every Spider-Man's life, someone important has to die; In most cases, it's an Uncle Ben, but usually, it's a police Captain. And guess whose dad just got promoted? Yep! Miles' Dad. Miles makes a break for it in an attempt to return to his world. Only he ends up someplace else. And not only do we get the craziest twist of the film, but things end on a cliffhanger!
There's no need to stick past the credits with Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, as there are no post-credit endings. But we learn the name of the next film: Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse. Even though what I've just said about the movie is brief, it represents my opinion and only touches the surface. I mean there's a lot that goes on with this one. Plus, you get some great cameos and tons of Easter eggs. Much like The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Across the Spider-Verse is one film you'll want to see again just so you can see it all! And now, let's dive into the TOV Breakdown!
The Good:
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is a breathtaking, action-packed adventure with stunning animation, an engaging plot, and a ton of characters to keep you engaged. I mean, the film is called Across the Spider-Verse for a reason. Unlike Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, we actually get to visit these different Spider-Worlds, each with their own art style. And it's pure eye candy! India's version of Brooklyn is my favorite. But I also love India's version of Spider-Man and the Chai/Chai tea joke (chai already means tea). And let's not forget a brief stint into the Legoverse. The plot is top-notch! And it's done so well that you'll almost forget about the first film. It's that deep! The story really draws you in, in ways the first film can't even touch. You really feel the weight of the world on Miles' shoulders. It's more mature, and darker, with plenty of twists to keep you in your seat for the nearly three hours this film runs. Next, you'll come for the story. However, it's the action that's the film's biggest seller. And there's no shortage of it! It starts out with Gwen battling her version of Peter Parker who becomes the Lizard. And it ends with Miles being pursued by every Spider-Man in history. It is absolutely wild! As I sit and type up this review, all I want is to watch all that action again! Finally, the acting is simply amazing! Newcomer to the Spider-Verse, Oscar Isaacs, gets props for his portrayal as Spider-Man 2099, who ranks as one of my favorite Spider-Men (I still have my first issue). But everyone brings their A-game into this one and deserves all the praise for their work. In the end, I loved everything about Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse! And I can't wait for the finale!
The Bad:
There are too many characters talking over one another. It's mostly within the first hour of the film. But it's not a complete distraction and doesn't hurt the overall film experience. Yet, it can be too much at times. Also, Madam Webb and Kraven the Hunter are due out later this year. Why was there no trailer for either film linked to this one?
The Ugly:
N/A
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is out now! And it's a sequel worth checking out on the big screen! The film is bigger than the first with breathtaking animation, an awesome story, and more Spider-Men than you can handle. Trust me, this one does not disappoint! So, out of TOV 5 stars, I'm giving Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse a solid 5!
