Does the film live upto expectations?
Across the Spider-verse is a triumph in film-making.
After the first film ‘Into The Spider-Verse’ released to universal acclaim, many people wanted this new installment to exceed the first, and boy did it do just that and then more.
Taking place roughly one year after the first film, the film reunites us with Miles Morales who is the world's one and only Spider-Man. We see him juggling with his duties as a superhero, alongside his education and family when he’s reunited with Gwen Stacey, Peter B Parker and meets the Spider-Society ran by Miguel O Hara for an adventure across the multiverse.
The films central focus is about Miles and his duties as Spider-Man. At the end of the first film he says “anyone can wear the mask”, but this film shows us as an audience the responsibility of wearing the mask and what it entails. Miles is a character that will stick with what he believes is right; it’s why we love him, he’s not afraid to stand up for himself to anyone. So when he comes across Miguel O Hara, it’s safe to say there’s a clash of heads.
As seen in the trailers, The Spot is the primary antagonist of the overall story, seen at first as quite a funny villain that can be used for comedic effect, as the film continues it’s shown he could have a greater role in the overall two stories that could spell a-lot of trouble for Miles and Co…
Now, I’m not going to talk much more about the story as I don’t want to give anything away. What I will say is it is a very strong story, however it is very much a first half. It’s no secret that this film is the first of a two part, so it does feel like you only get half of a story but the half we get is incredible indeed whilst leaving us wanted more straight away.
The film takes time to allow the characters room to breathe when they need to. We get to see more of Gwen Stacey and her world as-well as a little of Peter’s. The main focus is of course on Miles. We get to see how his dynamic with his family has changed over time and what his priorities are. There are some truly emotional moments in this film especially between Miles and his Mum.
We also see how Miles friendship with Gwen and Peter has changed since they last saw each other, with Gwen, it’s clear they care for each other deeply but are afraid to tell one another, it’s a dynamic that plays wonderfully in this film that will clearly carry over to the next. With Peter, Miles see’s him as a mentor figure and it’s clear Peter cares a lot for Miles too. Their dynamic may just be my favorite of the film.
Now. I have to take time to talk about the animation. On the first film, the animation was outstanding and we was left wondering how they would be able to top it, if at all.
They did. Ten times.
The animation styles in this is incredible, every Spidey has their own unique animation style that truly shines on the big screen. Every single frame is a work of art and there is so much to see. It truly is a beautiful film. You can see every animator has put so much love and dedication into each and every frame and it comes across when you watch it. It is beautiful.
Every cast member is fantastic in this film, from the returning cast of Shameik Moore;
Haliee Steinfeld and Jake Johnson as Miles; Gwen and Peter (Respectively) to Issa Rae as Spider-Woman and Oscar Isaac as Miguel O Hara who really makes himself known as a leader of the spider society and a potential problem for Miles.
I also have to shout out the Soundtrack by Daniel Pemberton, he’s taken some of his beloved themes from the first film and given them a refresh and added new elements to heighten the emotional core of this film. It could easily be the soundtrack of the year.
Overall, Across the Spider-Verse is a Marvel (haha get it) in filmmaking. From its spectacular animation, to its developed characters and story moments. You’ll have a great time. I’ve seen a lot of people compare this film to The Empire Strikes Back and I can see why. Go and check the film out and you’ll see why as well.
Then we just have the agonizing wait for ‘Beyond The Spider-Verse’ next year!
Across The Spider-Verse - 5/5
Thank you so much for reading! Let me know what you thought of Across the Spider-Verse!
More to come soon i promise, thank you all for your continued support!
Stay safe and look after each other
Harry x
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