1. The animation is stunning.
The movie uses different animation styles to represent different universes, but it all fits together. Peter B.’s animation is a bit more fluid than the 90s Spider-Man cartoon. Spider-Ham looks like he walked out of Looney Tunes. Peni Parker’s style is anime.
All of it is colorful and detailed without being overwhelming.
2. Kingpin’s motivation is simple and understandable.
We know that Kingpin is a bad guy, but we understand what he’s doing. He wants to get his family back, no matter what the cost is. I like when the villain’s goal is straightforward, so that the story can focus on the characters.
3. Miles is unsure of himself.
Miles wants to stop Kingpin but he isn’t sure he can learn how to use his superpowers in time to save the other Spider-People. I like that Miles can’t immediately use his abilities — he has to learn and it takes time. It’s something I really liked about Spider-Man: Homecoming. Homecoming‘s Peter Parker was scared and unsure of himself, but he was a hero anyway. Miles is like that, too.
4. The essence of Peter Parker is the same, no matter the universe.
Each Spider-Person feels like Spider-Man, even though they are different people with different experiences. They all suffered a loss. They juggle normal lives with superpowers. They have easy-going personalities but they’re serious about stopping bad things from happening. They want to do the right thing, even if it isn’t safe for them. Afraid but also brave. No version is glamorous, but every one is a hero.
5. The movie opens endless possibilities.
Introducing the multi-verse sets the stage for additional movies. We could have sequels about Miles. We could have spin-offs with each Spider-Person. Villains that we’ve met before and new threats from other universes. I want to see all of them.
Photo by Nicolas Picard on Unsplash
Lovely just what I was looking for. Thanks to
the author for taking his time on this one.