‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ : weaving a web of wonder and vibrancy

5 years after the enthralling Oscar-winning animated movie "Spider-man: Into the Spider-Verse," Marvel released its sequel which spans across six parallel dimensions, each with its own unique animation style and tone.

"Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" picks up where its predecessor left off, instantly enveloping you into the dynamic world of the 'Spider-verse' that is bursting with energy and vivacity. Each frame has been meticulously crafted to pay homage to comic book imagery, often mixing ink sketches, hip-hop-inspired graffiti, impressionist water colours, and even dynamic Renaissance illustrations.

But "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" is more than just a visual spectacle. It also has an emotionally resonant and gripping story. The wide range of aesthetics complements the narrative's breadth, in which the creators construct an even larger and more complex web of characters that become entangled in one another's dimensions.

Miles Morales continues to shine as a relatable and inspiring protagonist, and we see his growth as he grapples with the responsibilities of being a superhero. This film delves deeper into the storyline of Gwen Stacy (Spider-woman), making her a prominent character and not just the sidekick of Miles. Other iterations of Peter Parker(s) stand out as well such as the fierce and headstrong Jessica Drew, the hilariously narcissistic Indian Spider-man Pavitr Prabhakar, the nihilistic punk Hobie and the futuristic Spider-Byte.

Miguel O'Hara, voiced by Oscar Isaac, is the first-in-command of the elite society of Spider-people across all dimensions. His seething frustration and unpopular conscience creates an interesting dichotomy of good and evil.

The voice cast, including Shameik Moore as Miles Morales and Jake Johnson as the lovable Peter B. Parker, deliver performances with all the fervid intonations and nuances an audience could hope for. The music, voice and animation altogether bring the characters to life, almost as though they are jumping out of the pages of a comic book.

Quite a few villains make an appearance in this film, the main one being the Spot, who tries to control his power, much like Miles did in the first film. Once the Spot's anger concentrates those abilities into something truly dangerous, "Across the Spider-Verse" accentuates this character's malice in harsh, inky animations that resemble vicious threats painted across a wall.

The storytelling seamlessly interlaces multiple dimensions and ups the ante by offering mind-blowing twists. At times, there's unstoppable and intense action sequences but it's expertly balanced by tender and introspective moments. Even though it's an animated film, there's never a sense of flimsiness or lack of gravitas, which can happen in some of the best live-action superhero movies.

Once again, the song choices perfectly complemented the spine-tingling reveals as well as the poignant moments, which only immersed us further into this extraordinary world.

This movie warrants multiple viewings as it is filled with clever nods to the rich lore of Spider-Man and probably one of the best multiverse stories portrayed in a saturated field of superhero movies.

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The cliffhanger ending leaves viewers yearning for more. Nonetheless, this film stands on its own as a true testament to the power of animation, storytelling, and the enduring legacy of the iconic web-slinger. In this new era of Marvel, this sequel swings for the fences and does not miss, transcending expectations.