“Okay, let’s do this one last time, yeah?” —Miles Morales
Today’s quick review: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) is an ordinary teen until a spider bite gives him the same powers as Spider-Man. But when Spider-Man dies at the hands of the Kingpin (Liev Schrieber), Miles must take up the hero’s mantle and foil the villain’s plan to open a portal to another universe. Helping Miles on his journey is Peter B. Parker (Jake Johnson), the dejected Spider-Man of a different timeline.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is an animated superhero comedy that puts a new spin on a classic character. Into the Spider-Verse dives head-first into a sprawling adventure, jam-packed with action, humor, and heart. The story pairs newcomer Miles Morales with an eclectic team of displaced Spider-Men and -Women in an effort to save the city of New York. The premise is backed by ample creativity, rock-solid execution, and plenty of style.
Into the Spider-Verse is a loving tribute to Spider-Man and his many incarnations. Into the Spider-Verse embraces the wacky, self-deprecating side of the character without sacrificing his sense of heart. Miles Morales makes for a likable protagonist, and his efforts to find his place as a student, as a son, and a hero help ground the madness. The emotional side of the story is handled with simple moments that are chosen extremely well.
This emotional core gives Into the Spider-Verse a sturdy foundation to build on. The plot is a flurry of heroes, villains, battles, and gags that somehow never loses its sense of focus. The premise lets the movie run wild with its characters, ranging from credible heroes to walking gags to new designs for familiar villains. Astute viewers will catch a bevy of references to previous Spider-Man movies, the comics, and even the TV show.
For all its complexity, Into the Spider-Verse is surprisingly accessible. The script holds the audience’s hand just enough to get through the harder sells without belaboring the obvious. The spirit of each new idea shines though clearly, and the movie does a good job of slotting in its characters and plot points in a way that makes sense. Not every inclusion is a hit, but the majority are, and most viewers will find themselves drawn in rapidly.
Into the Spider-Verse ties it all together with a distinct visual style that combines CGI animation, comic book shading, and a vibrant color palette, as well as a few flourishes like visual sound effects. The film’s energy can be overwhelming at times, and its exaggerated character designs won’t be to everyone’s liking. But its vivid art style and punchy pacing keep the film moving at a rapid clip and help sell its goofy, rambunctious universe.
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse has the craftsmanship and vision to appeal to a wide range of fans. Comic book fans and newcomers alike will find something to love in its varied web of characters and comedy. Those who prefer more subdued comedies or more conventional superhero movies may not get the most out of it. But its unique premise, overall quality, and sheer variety make it well worth a watch for anyone who’s remotely interested.
For a modern take on Spider-Man with a little more grounding, try Spider-Man: Homecoming or The Amazing Spider-Man. For a family superhero comedy that goes heavier on the comedy and lighter on the plot, try The Lego Batman Movie. For another animated take on the superhero genre, try Big Hero 6.
8.7 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it an 8.0 to 8.5 for spirit, polish, and creativity.