Directed by: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson
Starring: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Oscar Isaac, Jake Johnson, Issa Rae
Release Year: 2023
Duration: 2h 20m
Genre: Animated, Action, Adventure, Superhero
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is the highly anticipated sequel to 2018’s Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, and it doesn’t just meet expectations—it shatters them. Building on the groundbreaking animation style, rich storytelling, and emotional depth of the first installment, the film takes viewers on a mind-bending journey through the multiverse, exploring themes of identity, responsibility, and sacrifice.
Story Overview
The movie picks up a year after the events of Into the Spider-Verse. Miles Morales (voiced by Shameik Moore) is now more confident in his role as Spider-Man, but he still struggles to balance his superhero duties with his personal life. Things take an unexpected turn when Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld) reappears in his life, introducing him to the Spider-Society, a collective of Spider-People from various universes tasked with protecting the multiverse.
Miles soon discovers a new and formidable threat—a villain named The Spot (Jason Schwartzman), whose unique powers create havoc across dimensions. As Miles navigates this new challenge, he confronts his own destiny and the weight of being a hero. The narrative masterfully intertwines humor, action, and heartfelt moments, making it both a thrilling and emotionally resonant experience.
Key Highlights
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Animation Style | A visual masterpiece with a mix of 2D and 3D animation styles, each tailored to specific universes. |
| Character Development | Deep dives into Miles Morales and Gwen Stacy’s arcs, exploring their struggles and growth. |
| Villain | The Spot emerges as a unique, intriguing antagonist with an unexpected emotional backstory. |
| Multiverse Concepts | Expands on the multiverse with creative, mind-bending interpretations of alternate Spider-Worlds. |
| Soundtrack | An electrifying mix of hip-hop, orchestral, and genre-blending tracks that enhance the narrative. |
Animation and Visuals
If Into the Spider-Verse was revolutionary, Across the Spider-Verse is nothing short of a visual odyssey. The film takes the unique animation style of its predecessor and amplifies it to a whole new level. Each universe visited by Miles has its own distinct aesthetic, from the watercolor tones of Gwen’s world to the punk-inspired chaos of Hobie Brown’s (Spider-Punk) universe. The meticulous attention to detail makes every frame a work of art. The animators seamlessly blend traditional comic book elements with modern animation techniques, resulting in a dynamic, kaleidoscopic visual experience that’s impossible to look away from.
Characters and Performances
The heart of Across the Spider-Verse lies in its characters. Miles Morales continues to be a relatable, layered protagonist. Shameik Moore’s voice acting brings warmth, humor, and vulnerability to Miles, making him feel like a true teenager navigating immense pressure.
Gwen Stacy, voiced by Hailee Steinfeld, takes on a more prominent role in this sequel. Her relationship with Miles is both touching and complicated, providing a strong emotional backbone to the story. The film also introduces an array of new Spider-People, each bringing unique personalities and quirks. Standouts include Oscar Isaac as the brooding Miguel O’Hara (Spider-Man 2099) and Daniel Kaluuya as the rebellious Spider-Punk.
The antagonist, The Spot, initially appears to be a humorous and somewhat underwhelming villain. However, as the story progresses, he evolves into a complex and formidable adversary, challenging Miles in unexpected ways. Jason Schwartzman’s voice performance perfectly captures the character’s transition from comic relief to serious threat.
Themes and Emotional Depth
At its core, Across the Spider-Verse is a story about choices, identity, and the burdens of responsibility. The film delves into the idea of fate and whether one’s path is predetermined or can be altered. This theme is poignantly explored through Miles’ struggle to carve out his own destiny while grappling with the expectations placed upon him as Spider-Man.
The movie also touches on universal issues such as belonging, friendship, and family. The dynamic between Miles and his parents adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the challenges of maintaining relationships while pursuing one’s aspirations. Gwen’s storyline mirrors these struggles, further emphasizing the sacrifices that come with being a hero.
Soundtrack and Score
The soundtrack of Across the Spider-Verse is a vibrant mix of genres, reflecting the film’s diverse and energetic tone. Daniel Pemberton’s score beautifully complements the visuals, enhancing the emotional impact of key scenes. Tracks like Metro Boomin’s contributions infuse the film with a modern edge, appealing to younger audiences while maintaining a timeless quality.
Strengths
- Groundbreaking Animation: The film sets a new benchmark for animated storytelling, blending art styles seamlessly.
- Compelling Characters: Miles and Gwen’s arcs are emotionally resonant and relatable.
- Innovative Storytelling: The multiverse concept is executed with creativity and depth.
- Perfect Balance of Humor and Drama: The movie masterfully transitions between light-hearted moments and intense emotional beats.
- Stellar Voice Cast: The performances elevate the characters, making them feel authentic and engaging.
Weaknesses
While Across the Spider-Verse is a nearly flawless film, its ambitious scope may feel overwhelming at times. The sheer number of characters and universes explored can make it challenging to keep track of every subplot. Additionally, the cliffhanger ending, while effective, may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied as they await the next installment.
Final Verdict
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is a triumph in every sense. It’s a visual feast, an emotional rollercoaster, and a testament to the limitless potential of animated storytelling. The film not only honors the legacy of Spider-Man but also redefines what it means to be a superhero. Whether you’re a longtime Spider-Man fan or a newcomer to the franchise, this movie is an absolute must-watch.
Rating: 9.5/10
Summary Table
| Aspect | Rating |
| Animation and Visuals | 10/10 |
| Character Development | 9.5/10 |
| Storyline | 9/10 |
| Themes and Emotional Depth | 9.5/10 |
| Soundtrack and Score | 9/10 |
| Overall Entertainment | 9.5/10 |
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is not just a movie; it’s an experience that pushes the boundaries of what animation can achieve. It leaves viewers eagerly anticipating the conclusion of this epic trilogy, cementing its place as one of the best superhero films of all time.
