Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (2023)

Detailed Summary: Critical Moments

Gwen’s New Beginning

The film begins with Gwen Stacy, also known as Spider-Woman, confronting her personal struggles on Earth-65. She battles the guilt over her best friend’s death, which has severely strained her relationship with her father.

Miles’ Growing Pains

Meanwhile, Miles Morales is balancing his responsibilities as Spider-Man with his family life. He faces the pressures of college applications, overprotective parents, and protecting the city.

Enter the Spider-Society

Miles encounters the Spider-Society, a group of Spider-People from across the multiverse led by Miguel O’Hara (Spider-Man 2099). Their mission is to preserve the “Canon Events” that must happen in every universe.

The Spot Becomes a Threat

The Spot, initially a minor villain, returns as a significant multiversal menace threatening reality. Miles and his allies must stop him.

Miles vs. The Society

Miles discovers that he may be destined to become a villain in other universes. The Spider-Society views him as a threat due to their rigid adherence to “Canon Events.” This leads to a conflict where Miles finds himself on the run from his supposed allies.

Movie Ending

The movie concludes on a cliffhanger with Miles determined to forge his own path, defying the Spider-Society. He sets out to prove he can change his destiny, even if it means confronting an army of Spider-People. The final scene shows Miles preparing to jump back into the multiverse, ready to face new challenges.

Post-Credits Scene

The post-credits scene teases the next installment, hinting at the appearance of a symbiote-powered Spider-Man.

Type of Movie

“Across the Spider-Verse” is an animated superhero film that blends action, comedy, and drama. It is a visual spectacle that pushes the boundaries of animation, using various art styles to depict different universes. The film explores themes of identity, destiny, and choice.

Cast

• Shameik Moore as Miles Morales
• Hailee Steinfeld as Gwen Stacy
• Oscar Isaac as Miguel O’Hara / Spider-Man 2099
• Brian Tyree Henry as Jefferson Davis
• Luna Lauren Vélez as Rio Morales
• Jake Johnson as Peter B. Parker
• Issa Rae as Jessica Drew / Spider-Woman
• Jason Schwartzman as The Spot

Film Music and Composer

Daniel Pemberton returns to compose the score, blending orchestral themes, electronic beats, and hip-hop influences. The soundtrack features original songs that complement the film’s dynamic energy.

Filming Locations

Though animated, the film’s locations are inspired by real-world places. New York City, particularly Brooklyn, is prominently featured. The film also showcases reimagined versions of cities across the multiverse, each with unique visual styles.

Awards and Nominations

“Across the Spider-Verse” is already receiving critical acclaim and is expected to be a contender for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards. Its groundbreaking visual effects are also likely to earn technical nominations.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• The animation team developed new software for multiversal scenes, enabling seamless transitions between different animation styles.
• Voice actors recorded together whenever possible to capture genuine chemistry.
• Directors spent months storyboarding action sequences, treating them like choreographed dances.
• Over 1000 animators worked on the film, more than double the number for the first movie.
• The team created over 100 unique Spider-People designs.

Inspirations and References

The film draws from Spider-Man comics, particularly the “Spider-Verse” storylines, and takes inspiration from:

• Quantum physics theories for the multiverse concept.
• Street art and graffiti reflecting Miles’ artistic background.
• Classic sci-fi films like “Blade Runner” for futuristic cityscapes.
• Greek mythology and Shakespearean themes of fate versus free will.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

Several alternate endings were considered, including one where Miles joins the Spider-Society. Deleted scenes include:

• A sequence featuring Spider-Man Noir.
• An extended chase scene in Nueva York.
• A heartfelt conversation between Miles and his mother.

Book Adaptations and Differences

While not directly based on a single book, the movie draws from various Spider-Man comics. Differences include:

• The creation of the Spider-Society.
• Reimagined or newly created Spider-People.
• More developed character arcs for Miles and Gwen.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• The Spot’s Transformation: A visually stunning and narratively powerful evolution.
• Gwen’s Confession: An emotional scene where Gwen reveals her secret to her father.
• The Mumbattan Chase: A breathtaking sequence showcasing innovative animation.
• The Spider-Society Reveal: A spectacular introduction to a vast array of Spider-People.
• Miles’ Decision: The climactic moment where Miles chooses to defy the Spider-Society.

Iconic Quotes

• “We’re supposed to be the good guys.” – Miles Morales
• “Canon events aren’t a cage, they’re the key.” – Miguel O’Hara
• “Being Spider-Man is a leap of faith. Every time.” – Gwen Stacy
• “I’m not a kid anymore. I’m Spider-Man.” – Miles Morales
• “The multiverse is a concept about which we know frighteningly little.” – Miguel O’Hara

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• Posters of “Clone High,” a nod to the directors’ previous work.
• Spider-Man 2099’s suit features tiny LEGO studs.
• Graffiti with “Ditko Lives” honoring Spider-Man co-creator Steve Ditko.
• Frequent appearances of the number 42, referencing Jackie Robinson.
• Wilhelm screams hidden throughout action sequences.

Trivia

• The film contains over 17 million unique drawings.
• Each universe has its own frame rate.
• Hand-drawn animation is used for certain scenes.
• The script was over 280 pages long.
• Some Spider-People were designed by fans and artists in a global challenge.

Why Watch?

“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” is a groundbreaking sequel that advances animation and storytelling. It delivers a deeply emotional narrative about identity and choice, making it a must-watch for both Spider-Man fans and those who appreciate innovative filmmaking. Its cliffhanger ending sets up anticipation for the next installment.

Director’s Other Movies

• Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs (2009)
• 21 Jump Street (2012)
• The Lego Movie (2014)
• 22 Jump Street (2014)
• Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

Recommended Films for Fans

• The Mitchells vs. the Machines (2021)
• Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)
• Big Hero 6 (2014)
• The Incredibles (2004)
• Paprika (2006)
• Scott Pilgrim vs. the World (2010)
• Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” stands out as a visually and narratively ambitious sequel that continues to push the boundaries of animated storytelling and the superhero genre.