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Writer's pictureGus Keller

Spider-Man (2002): Spinning History

Updated: Feb 22, 2023


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Spider-Man pioneered modern superhero movies because it provided a lucrative template that is frequently parroted today. However, despite the copycats, Spider-Man stands out because it lacks the cynicism that has become the norm. There is no sign of cinematic universes. There is little merchandising or fan service. Really, it's just an origin story being told, which is oddly refreshing. It's hardly original, but the fact that it isn't treated as a stepping stone has become rare with superhero movies. Thorough characters, quotable dialogue, and memorable moments are hard to come by these days.


Furthermore, Spider-Man is made with significant craft. Director Sam Raimi elevates the project in a way that is sorely missed today. The cinematography is packed with motion, even during innocuous establishing shots. The editing is equally energetic, using flashy transitions and montages as opportunities to spice things up. The sound design is complex during battles, subtle during emotional beats, and abstract during moments of discovery. Meanwhile, the soundtrack and cast are noticeably excellent (shout out to Danny Elfman, JK Simmons, and Willem Dafoe). All together, this makes Spider-Man a classic film that's often imitated but never replicated.


Writing: 7/10

Direction: 9/10

Cinematography: 8/10

Acting: 8/10

Editing: 9/10

Sound: 9/10

Score/Soundtrack: 9/10

Production Design: 8/10

Casting: 9/10

Effects: 8/10


Overall Score: 8.4/10




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Let’s be clear. I’m not an avid comic reader, but I love comic book movies, and while I can never exactly pinpoint where my love for film started overall, I know exactly when it began regarding superhero movies. It all started when I got my hands on a VHS and experienced a young man gain superpowered abilities courtesy of a particularly unique arachnid, all while trying to find his path in life, deal with a psychotic killer who just so happens to be his best friend’s father, strive to win the heart of the girl next door, and all the while come to understand exactly what his dear uncle meant when he uttered these six simple words to him, “with great power comes great responsibility.” I don’t think it takes much more to make clear how much I adore this movie and how much it means to me personally. It’s not only one of my favorite comic book superhero movies ever, but it may just be one of my favorite movies of all time. This was my first exposure to the Web Slinger and it very well proved to be the catalyst that propelled him to being my favorite superhero till this day. And everytime I watch it, I never get sick of it. I even find myself quoting lines out loud because of how many times I’ve seen it. Everything clicks. The origin story is done so well in the first hour, and yet we still get a solid film the whole way through. There’s so much heart put into this film, and it hits all the right notes. It’s funny when the levity is needed, serious when the moment calls for it, emotional when some heart strings need to be pulled, and above all, it’s inspiring. The story of Peter Parker is an impactful tale when done right, and this, for me, is one of those instances. Of course, despite all that works for me, some aspects of the film are pretty dated (the “cute outfit” line comes to mind in that regard.) Overall, this film always holds a special place in my heart and that is something that I doubt will ever change.



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