Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Review

‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse‘ doesn’t just live up to the groundbreaking 2018 original — it swings higher, deeper, and broader. This is not merely a sequel; it’s a daring leap forward, pushing the boundaries of animation, storytelling, and what it means to be a hero. The film’s animation is a breathtaking kaleidoscope of styles, each reflecting the unique personalities and worlds of its characters. From Brooklyn’s vibrant pulse to Gwen Stacy’s watercolor dreamscape and Miguel O’Hara’s dark, futuristic edge, every frame feels like a masterfully crafted piece of art. It’s not just visually stunning but narratively purposeful, using these distinct styles to enhance the story rather than simply dazzle.

At its heart, this is a deeply personal tale. While the action is thrilling and expansive, the film never loses sight of its characters. Miles Morales (Shameik Moore) is navigating the complexities of being Spider-Man while juggling the expectations of his family. His struggle to balance heroism with his identity as a son and student grounds the film, making him relatable despite the multiverse chaos. Miles’s relationship with Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld) adds an emotional core to the narrative, offering moments of vulnerability and connection that are refreshingly real. Their shared sense of loneliness and longing creates a bond that feels authentic and deeply moving.

The emotional stakes are heightened by the introduction of vibrant new characters who bring fresh perspectives and cultural richness to the Spider-Verse. Spider-Punk (Daniel Kaluuya) is an anarchistic scene-stealer, Spider-Man India (Karan Soni) brings humor and heart, and Spider-Woman (Issa Rae) is a commanding presence as a maternal yet fierce protector. Jason Schwartzman’s Spot is a standout antagonist, evolving from quirky comic relief to a complex, reality-threatening force. His arc cleverly ties into the events of the first film, reinforcing the series’ commitment to interconnected storytelling.

But the film isn’t all heavy themes and emotional introspection. The action sequences are some of the most inventive and exhilarating ever seen in animation — or cinema as a whole. From a jaw-dropping chase through the multiverse featuring hundreds of Spider-Man variants to quieter, tension-filled standoffs, every scene is meticulously crafted. The film’s ability to balance cosmic-level stakes with deeply personal moments is a testament to its exceptional writing and direction.

The sheer scale of the film is both its greatest strength and its potential drawback. The dense narrative, overflowing with ideas, characters, and multiversal twists, can occasionally feel overwhelming. There’s so much happening at any given moment that it demands the viewer’s full attention — and perhaps a second or third viewing to catch all the details. The cliffhanger ending, while narratively satisfying and thematically fitting, will undoubtedly frustrate viewers eager for resolution. This is undeniably a ‘Part One’ experience, despite its title not reflecting it.

‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ is more than a sequel — it’s a statement. It dares to challenge the conventions of superhero films, questioning what it means to be a hero and rejecting the notion that tragedy must define greatness. It amplifies everything that made its predecessor a masterpiece while exploring deeper emotional and philosophical layers. The animation is groundbreaking, the storytelling is ambitious, and the characters are unforgettable.

This is not just a Spider-Man movie — it’s a monumental achievement in filmmaking. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the multiverse, this film demands to be experienced on the biggest screen possible. It’s a dazzling, emotional rollercoaster that leaves audiences breathless and eagerly anticipating the next chapter.

‘Across the Spider-Verse’ doesn’t just set a new standard for animation — it redefines what’s possible in cinema itself.