LONDON – Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse, Marvel’s newest sequel in the Spider-Man franchise, delivers powerful story-telling through vivid animation.
The sequel follows Miles Morales, a young biracial teenage boy who battles balancing his family life with the responsibilities of being a superhero in the wake of a threatened Spider-Man Multiverse.
The sequel perfectly accompanies its predecessor by giving viewers an emotional element that allows us to relate to the characters.
Morales is a lovable protagonist who embraces his Afro-Latino heritage and denies the destiny limited to him in his hometown of Brooklyn.
The slow pace of the film makes sure to draw attention not only to the plot but to the feelings of characters.
The visuals are smooth and effective. From the watercolor palette animation used to reflect the emotions of characters such as Gwen Stacey (Hailee Steinfield) to the intricate details of each Spider-Man suit, every shade and design is chosen carefully.
The visual dynamic of the film is enhanced by the comic-book style animation bringing characters more to life.
From a counseling session to addressing toxic masculinity, the sequel manages to combine comedy with serious messages.
A scene of the futuristic hybrid city called ‘Mumbattan,’ a reference to the British Empire stealing gems from India provides a satirical message.
The musical composition also doesn’t disappoint in this sequel, as every song seems to strengthen each scene.
Flashback scenes to previous Spider-Man actors such as Andrew Garfield invoke a sense of nostalgia.
Morales makes the perfect Spider-Man by being one who doesn’t succumb to fate but instead creates his own pathway.
He goes beyond his own Spider-Verse to forge his own identity, leaving viewers captivated by his character and anticipating his next move.
Anjola Fashawe is a Reporter with Youth Journalism International.
Read another YJI review of this film:
Spider-Man’s latest weaves an animated web of adventure
