Nah I’ma do my own thing.

When Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse first swung into theatres in the summer of 2018, the effects in the film pushed the boundaries of what animation in entertainment could become. With comic accurate hues and fourth wall breaking “twips”, the term comic book accuracy had finally met its match. While also proving that Peter Parker does not have to be front and center to create a story that is worth watching. Miles Morales returns this weekend to theatres everywhere in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Does the film stick the landing, or has this franchise run out of webs, let’s find out on Gaber’s Two Cents.

The film begins by showing us the daily life and origin recap, of fan favorite character Spider-Woman, otherwise known as Gwen Stacy. We’re shown the small intricacies that set Gwen’s beginnings apart from both Miles and Peter. With the Multiverse admittedly being a complicated concept, it’s a great setup that allows more casual audience members to get a quick refresh on how the Multiverse works, and the tiny alterations that set each individual spider character apart from one another.

The opening also introduces us to side antagonist Miguel O’Hara, who comic readers know as Spider-Man 2099. A Spider-Man from the future who has a unique set of abilities that sets him apart from Miles Morales and Peter Parker. O’Hara is voiced by Oscar Issac, who gives a menacing and imposing performance throughout the film. He doesn’t get the most screen time in this film, but one can assume that his role will be expanded in the third film. It actually does lend credence to the fact that he is the leader of this huge Spider incorporation protecting the time stream, since he only appears when the fabric of time is truly in jeopardy.

So the new Spider people are great, but how is our main man Miles doing after all these years, he’s great actually. The film shows us that New York is finally coming to terms with their new Spider-Man, Miles even occasionally works with his police officer father in stopping crimes, with his adult voice of course so that his Identity isn’t blown. The chemistry between Miles and his father feels natural and organic, and allows these two to shine in ways that were previously unexplorable in the first film.

One thing that must be said before we get into all of the Multiverse shenanigans contained in the film, is how excellent actor Jason Schwartzman is as the main antagonist The Spot. The Spot has always been regulated to the sidelines when compared to other villains within Spider-Man’s rogue gallery. Which was always strange to me, since his power set has unlimited potential for putting him as one of Spidey’s most dangerous villains. Since his multi-dimensional warping abilities give him endless opportunities to become a thorn in Spider-Man’s side. Yet, this changes within the plot of Across the Spider-Verse. While labeled as a joke at first, Schwartzman’s dialogue starts off as benevolently evil, before taking a full turn into unstoppable villain territory. This heel switch is jarring considering you could almost feel sorry for The Spot when first introduced to his character, but this sentimental emotion soon turns to fear when you realize he is no longer the butt of the joke.

Alright, villains? Check. Family dynamics? Check. How about we take a trip into the Spidey Multiverse now. With over 60 years of Spider-Man media, there have been hundreds of interpretations and unique takes on the character, and this film uses that as its secret weapon. From video games, television, and film adaptations, the amount of cameos and references to Spider-Mans 60 year history is both overwhelming and astounding at the same time. I use the term overwhelming because you simply cannot catch every single nod and reference on one viewing alone. Which caters to both casual fans and more comic savvy fans alike.

The level of fluidity between universes is amazing as well. If a film can include live-action, animated, and Lego sequences, and make them feel as if they are essential to the tale being told, you have a complete hold of showcasing just how random and fantastical the Multiverse can be. These scenes play like a child picking up and combining all of their favorite toys, and the wonder and emotion that come with such memories are apparent for every viewer. Since these scenes stick the landing so well, hopefully it will allow other companies to take more creative chances like this in the future.

Another positive that was present within this sequel is the excellently choreographed action set pieces contained in the film. The scenes vibrate with electricity and energy, so much so that you cannot help but look on as Miles is attempting to thwart hundreds upon hundreds of Spider-People. These scenes are as chaotic as they are visually entrancing, and it’s hard not to admire the care and craft that went into bringing these epic sequences to life.

Minor Spoilers Ahead

With so much positivity in this review there must be some downsides right? Well, sort of. The film ends on a cliffhanger with a ‘To Be Continued’ title card. This works well, as the tension before hand had been brought ahead full steam. However, a new antagonist, or maybe protagonist (we’ll see how things play out in the next film) is introduced at an odd time to say the least. Spider-Man films have a history of featuring multiple villains, but both The Spot and Miguel O’Hara are so good at holding the villainous reigns it seems a tad tacked on to add even more villainy to the mix. A minor problem for sure, but nothing that takes away from the viewers excitement of what is to come.

All in all, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is a satisfying dip into the world of your favorite wall-crawler. With character beats that add to the emotional structure of the previous film, first rate antagonists, and action/visuals that keep you on the edge of your seat, Miles Morales proves once again that anyone can wear the mask, it’s how you wear it that matters. All that and more is why Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse received this particular Cent Score.

Cent Scale: 4 Cents

Not a masterpiece, but as close as one can get.

Thanks for checking out this weeks Film & TV piece. Feel free to tap that thumb’s up button down below and subscribe if you want to be notified for new posts each week. Check back next week for an all new Comics piece. I’ll see you all next time on Gaber’s Two Cents.