Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse review by Tauri J. Miller
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is the best Spider-Man film in the last three decades. Yeah, I said it. Fight me! But if you’re on the fence about seeing it, that’s on you, so instead of trying to sell it I’m just going to fangirl. Hope you brought your parka, because I’m about to gush over this cinematic gift we’ve been given.
Visuals
Into the Spider-Verse seamlessly merges numerous aesthetics while still maintaining its own style. From classic pulp, to noir, to the cartoon stylings of Spider-Ham, Spidey has taken many forms over the last fifty years, so it was likely no easy task blending all of those disparate models into one cohesive visual style.
Beyond the multitude of Spider-Men, the film features an expansive color palate that leaps right off the screen. I cannot stress to you the beauty of the striking set-pieces, action sequences, and camera work. You will want steal every frame and throw them on your walls.
Story
Into the Spider-Verse manages to be simultaneously funny and heart-wrenching; all while balancing an insane number of characters. There was never a doubt that Phil Lord would deliver a great story, but it still amazes me how much he can invoke so many different emotions without ever breaking the established tone. Each character’s motivations are so clear and thought out that it’s impossible not to see yourself in at least one character. He created a story that allows the viewer to empathize with hero and villain alike, all while busting a gut from organic character-based humor.
Representation
Into the Spider-Verse’s diverse cast and modern view of New York is what sets it apart as the definitive Spider-Man film of our age. Miles Morales, a protagonist of color with two loving parents, is a rare site on any screen, let alone the big screen. It can be easy to overlook how monumental this is amongst the ensemble cast and visual feast, but for some, this is their first chance to truly see themselves behind the mask of your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. Over the last 20 years, we have been served three different theatrical versions of Spider-man, but this is the first Spider-Man to give you a New York that is full of color and culture.
Some final thoughts
- Aunt May is by far the best character of the movie
- I totally ship Miles and Gwen!
- STAY AFTER THE CREDITS, DUH!
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse hits theaters December 14 2018
— Tauri J. Miller