‘Across Spider-Verse’ pinnacle of animation
Latest friendly multiverse superhero film offers stunning visuals, soundtrack, satisfying character development
Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld) and Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) in Columbia Pictures and Sony Pictures Animations’ SPIDER-MAN™: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE. Photo by Sony Pictures Animation. ©2023 CTMG, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Accessed on the Sony Pictures Publicity website. Reposted here with permission according to the terms of use outlined on the website.
Sony Pictures Entertainment YouTube channel
June 25, 2023
Almost five years after its predecessor, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse was released on June 2. The film suffered various delays as it was originally set to be released in the summer of 2022. Though it was a long wait, it was 100% worth it. Because not only is it a perfect sequel, but it’s a perfect film. The stellar animation and amazing soundtrack are only some of the reasons that make this film memorable.
In the latest superhero film, Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) is reunited with Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld) and Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson). Shortly after, Miles is taken across various multiverses and encounters the Spider Society, a team of more spider variants trying to protect the Multiverse, one being Miguel O’Hara aka Spider-Man 2099 (Oscar Issac). Shortly after, the superheroes disagree on how to handle the new threat, Spot (Jason Schwartzman), leaving Miles with a difficult decision. Across all this, Miles must learn what it means to be Spider-Man and what sacrifices come with the responsibility.
For starters, what makes this film stand out on its own is the animation style. Like its predecessor, the animation looks like a comic book brought to life, but the sequel takes it one step forward. The prime example is when we are taken to Gwen’s world. The color choices of pink, purple and white are loyal to the Spider-Gwen comics that were first released in 2015. There is also a moment where a villain from a different universe appears and even though his art style is less dimensional than Gwen’s world, the animators still managed to blend him in. Where the animator’s talent and devotion really shined was the big battle that included Spider-Man 2099. It can be a bit difficult to keep up with, but it was absolutely amazing to watch.
What also adds to this beautiful animation is the catchy musical score made specifically for this movie. The best score that was presented was when Spider-Man 2099 was introduced on screen. The distracted elephant sound mixed with a dab of techno, is the perfect mix to intrigue viewers, but also worried due to the somber tone. It really makes the viewer wonder if this character will be a good guy or a potential threat.
This Spider-Man movie is filled with tons and tons of references to other Spider-people. There are so many references that a few appear in a blink and you’ll miss it moment. One of the downsides of having so many references is that it can become difficult for the viewer to keep up with the plot and Easter eggs being constantly presented on screen. What prevents this from being a problem, however, is that the main plot is never lost as the references are short and sweet. As someone who is a major Spider-Man fan, I appreciated how the animators were committed to representing all versions of Spider-Man, no matter how little or widely known they are.
When Miles is introduced, we see him juggling between saving people’s days while also being a respectful and educated son. It was very refreshing to see him more grown up and have a close bond with his father because, in the last film, the bond was underdeveloped. Miles’ character has matured since in the first film. He has gone from being inexperienced and rather unconfident to being more wise and sure of what he wants.
Later in the film, however, Miles suffers the consequences of being a hero; he has to choose between doing what’s right and choosing what he wants for himself and his family. As difficult as this was to watch it had Miles further learn about the sacrifices for being a superhero. Along with more serious turn,
Gwen got a more significant role in the story and her care and kindness towards Miles was very adorable and leaves room for the upcoming sequel. Her character also matched her comic book personality as she tries to be a hero for everyone around her, so much so she forgets to also care for herself.
It would have been nice to see more of Peter B. Parker and his new daughter, Mayday; he still manages to be tough and an encouraging figure to Miles and Gwen. The story strived to relate back to the audience and demonstrate to us the responsibilities it comes with when we receive a big job.
Whether you are a Spider-Man fan, an animation lover, or just simply love movies; Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is the perfect movie to watch for its surprising plot twists and stellar animation work. This is more than just an animated movie; it is an animation achievement that shows that animated films are not just meant for kids.
