A visually dazzling and eye-popping piece of cinematic art, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse literally expands the world of its predecessor for a thrilling and rousing Spider-Man story that honors the character’s vast, rich legacy.
Set some time after Into the Spider-Verse, Miles Morales has easily settled into his roles and responsibilities as Spider-Man. However, with the emergence of the villainous Spot, Miles clashes with his allies (and numerous other Spider-People) led by Miguel O’Hara over how to handle this multiverse-hopping threat to the very stability and fabric of the universe.
Expanding the stories and personalities of returning characters, particularly that of Gwen Stacy and Miguel O’Hara, the film shows how their career as Spider-Woman and Spider-Man 2099, respectively has taken a grave toll with lasting social and psychological effects. Their objective of saving the multiverse has clouded their judgement of saving those around them, planting the seeds of their conflict with Miles.
True to how the Miles Morales comics were a radical new take on Spider-Man, Across the Spider-Verse subverts the story beats that originated going back to the minds of Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. We as the audience are given a new spin on the Spider-Man legacy and pathos as Miles attempts to save those closest to him, even if it means putting the entire multiverse at stake. With the previous film showcasing Miles discovering and coming to terms with his powers as Spider-Man, the sequel delves even further into the struggles and sacrifices associated with being the hero.
With its predecessor being the primary reason behind the current crop of multiverse-centric films, it’s only fair that Across the Spider-Verse stands out by utilizing the multiverse concept to the best of its storytelling potential. Alongside explaining the concept in a visually engaging manner, the audience is given a sense of the impending danger of the crumbling that will inevitably come about due to the actions of both The Spot and Miles. The film therefore moves away from other multiverse superhero flicks by valuing the multiversal element that drives the story forward, rather than employing it is a tool for cameos to appease fans.
The real star of the film, however is the stunning animation work on display. Right from the opening frame, the film arrests the viewer with its eye-catching and instantly memorable visuals that burst on the screen. True to the multiverse theme, the film blends numerous art styles from pastel watercolors, futurism and classical Indian art. The Spider-Verse series is a true testament to the animators’ hard work in paying homage to an entire field of visual communication and bring the vibe of a graphic novel come to life for its audience.
The returning vocal performances of Shameik Moore as Miles and Hailee Steinfeld as Gwen aids in emotionally developing their characters’ story arcs. However, it is Oscar Isaac as the misguided Miguel O’Hara who effectively conveys the psychological wounds and unbridled rage he carries owing to his responsibility as Spider-Man.
The eclectic soundtrack by Daniel Pemberton and the curated furthermore compliment the film and give a unique sonic personality of its own.
Yet another film that is split into two halves, Across the Spider-Verse ends on a cliffhanger so infuriating to audiences who wouldn’t mind two and a half hours more of this engrossing story, proving there is still magic left to be found in an saturated and overproduced genre given the right mix of ingredients of story, top-notch production values, with a sense of care for the source material and its ardent audience.
Texts of A Pop Culture Buff 