There is nothing quite like “Into the Spider-verse” and I doubt there will be for a long time...
From the bucket of bricks that made up The Lego Movie, comes Sony Pictures Animation’s collaboration with Phil Lord and Chris Miller, “Spider-man: Into the Spider-verse.” This Spider-man story sees Brooklyn’s very own Miles Morales make his first big screen appearance. Voiced tremendously by Shameik Moore, Miles is joined by other Spider-men, women, and animals across different dimensions in one of this year’s very best films.
Right from the beginning, “Spider-verse” pencils in so many unique stylistic flourishes that sets the tone for a spectacular time. Apart of a growingly stale genre, “Spider-verse” takes one of the world’s most beloved characters, explores a lesser known version of him, and does so with plenty of tricks up its sleeve. In an instant the design of the film explodes like the world’s largest comic-book. With visually striking panels, perfectly placed thought bubbles, and stunning animation that only improves as time goes on. All of which would have gone stale if not for the voicework for each of its cast members.
The aforementioned Shameik Moore is a revelation that brings Spider-man to life in such a way that Yuri Lownethal did for Spider-man on PS4. The portrayal of being self-conscious in a new environment hits home in more ways than one. The hesitation, fear, and desire to escape the confines of only your thoughts is exceptionally portrayed. This works wonders with Jake Johnson’s apathetic approach to Spider-man and Hailee Steinfeld’s Spider-Gwen yearning for friendship. Much like many of Spider-man’s most iconic iterations, “Into the Spider-verse” adds another notch to it’s belt in showcasing the “man” in “Spider-man”.
A character so infinitely relatable at so many different stages in life. Whether it’s recently divorced, coming of age, or losing a loved one, Spider-man is an avenue for all to relate to as we overcome different obstacles life’s natural course throws our way. It’s clear that “Into the Spider-verse” understands the material it’s working with along with the roots of what inspired an entire foundation for entertainment. It not only pays homage to icons of the industry, but it is a testament to how inspiring Spider-man has been for so many people across generations of filmgoers.
Lastly, “Into the Spider-verse” meets every expectation you had going in. From it’s decorated visual style, to it’s wonderful voice talent, to the care and precision by it’s film-makers, and the ultimate embodiment of the character. Miles’ journey is a literal and figurative exploration of the web one can find itself stuck in and how to escape that. There is nothing quite like “Into the Spider-verse” and I doubt there will be for a long time after unless Sony greenlights a sequel that is sure to deliver more comic-book luxury to the likes of what was seen here. This is the fresh, stylistic, visually stimulating fare that this sub-genre needed and you should spend this Christmas season with everyone’s favorite web-head.
“Spider-man: Into the Spider-verse” gets a 98/100