Vertigo

Vertigo
Vertigo

Monday, February 18, 2019

SPIDER-MAN: INTO THE SPIDERVERSE Swings to New Heights


A variation on Marvel Comics’ traditional Spider-Man mythology, Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse is an imaginative, thoroughly fun adventure that steers the Spider universe in an exciting direction.


A high schooler, Miles, stumbles upon a deadly crime boss who creates a rip in the multiverse exposing the world to other Spider heroes.  With an origin story similar to the original Spider-Man, the film exploits Miles’ awkwardness with his new powers and sensory abilities with humorous results.  Mentored by unexpected allies, must summon the courage and use his unique abilities to fix the multiverse and save his friends.


The premise that Spider-Man is one of multiple versions of Spider-Heroes in the universe is a fascinating concept (that DC Comics has explored). This is about the maturation of Miles who has a good heart and what it means to be a hero and taking a leap of faith in believing in himself.


Ambitious in concept and execution, the film breathes comic book panels to life.  This alternate universe is a perfectly realized world with dark overtones; the animation is stunning with its vivid characters and detailed backgrounds. The villains are formidable and given backgrounds which humanize their characters.  Even with its remarkable thrills, the story never forgets to emphasize the importance of family and comaraderie while offering its message of hope and self sacrifice.

A reinvention of Spider-Man without violating the original canon, this film demonstrates the great potential for animation with its creative ideas, and it expands the Spiderverse to unlimited possibilities.  There are Easter eggs galore which should delight Marvel fans, a cool Stan Lee cameo, and an amusing post credits scene for Spidey purists.  (An Oscar for Best Animated Feature beckons.)

**** of **** stars (for Spider-Man purists)

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