Review
Spider-Man
- Director
- Sam Raimi
- Year
- 2002
- Rating
- Reviewed by
- Gon Curiel a.k.a. Groucho
- Review date
- Wednesday, May 22, 2002
After years of struggle, the definitive film adaptation of the famous comic book (published by Marvel Comics) is finally here. It was a long wait, and there were many failed attempts and dreadful flops. Even the cartoons weren’t any good (though some of them were really fun). I’m glad to say, as a fan, that it sure was worth the wait: Not only is it perfectly adapted from the book (except for a few necessary changes) but it is realistic, somehow managing to make us believe everything that we see is true.
Some dudes who really knew what the original comic book was about realized Peter was as un-cool as could be, and Tobey Maguire was the perfect choice; he’s as good playing an awkward loser is as he is playing a charming fellow. They also realized that Mary Jane was nothing spectacular, and so it is with Kirsten Dunst… Don’t take me wrong, she’s great!, but she’s also perfect as an ordinary girl next door. Peter and M.J.’s romance is very credible and they are both sympathetic; Maguire is especially good at making us care for him.
A couple of scenes are unforgettable: the discovery of the “spider sense” and the design of the Spider-Man suit. The latter is a real tribute to comic books in general. Talking about unforgettable scenes, what about that upside-down kiss under the rain? Certainly memorable!
In the meantime, as a more than necessary subplot, the original Green Goblin (Willem Dafoe as Norman Osborn and his evil alter-ego) acquires super abilities, and causes a lot of trouble in New York City. Dafoe is perfect as the maniac, though he’s not stronger in impact than the hero: another asset of the script.
Some visual effects are too evident but it is forgiven: the action scenes have no equal.
Other performers include Cliff Robertson and Rosemary Harris as Peter’s Uncle Ben and Aunt May, James Franco as Harry Osborn and J.K. Simmons, incredibly effective as J. Jonah Jameson of the Daily Bugle.
Also worth noting: another great score by Danny Elfman.
This movie has it all, even to the level of Superman (1978), for which it shows both respect and admiration.
Here’s a comic book fan talking, dudes. This is one worthy piece!
“With great power comes great responsibility.”
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Other reviews of Spider-Man (2002): Morris
Comments
Groucho wrote at 6/22/2002:
Is it really that long, man? Didn't think so at the time but it might be true...Hey, wait a minute! Are you saying my usual reviews are ridiculously short? Are you saying I am not good at writing??
At least I don't BORE people with long accounts of my thoughts for the movies!!!
LOL, just kidding! Thanks for your comments. I know your review will be published one of these days and I can't wait to read it and comment on it. Do you mind giving us some preview? Well, I guess you already did in your last comment, huh?
Yup! A wonderful movie indeed!
Morris wrote at 6/22/2002:
I love our very different styles to write. One writes tight, short, complete reviews while the other, as you say, bores with his thoughts on everything, lol. What would REALLY be boring was if we both did the exact same thing. I'm glad we are who we are...Anyway, a preview? Well, it's loooong.... :)
Groucho wrote at 6/22/2002:
You're absolutely right, Moe. We couldn't be more different in our ways of thinking and expressing our thoughts and it sure shows in our reviews. You don't bore at all; in fact, at times it seems like my reviews ARE ridiculously short, but I guess I manage to make them complete nevertheless.I'm wondering if your Spider-Man review (which has already been written) will turn out to be longer than mine! Isn't that a fun experiment?
Morris wrote at 6/22/2002:
I appreciate your comments...But regarding our reviews, just figure out that mine is longer than usual, so that means I wrote a lot, A LOT... lol.
Morris wrote at 6/22/2002:
I just saw "Spider-Man" for a second time and it was as magical an experience as the first time around. Sam, my hero; Tobey, you rule; Kirtsen, I love you.Then again, I just realized I forgot to mention something in my upcoming reviewm so I'm going to say it here: I loved the score! Even the music is original and different. The opening sequence track is amazing and Danny Elfman certainly knows how to bring the perfect touch for every scene. Another great score by the man, as my bud states here!
Groucho wrote at 6/22/2002:
Maybe you should talk to our Editor if you want that added to your review, buddy! He can be nice... at times. LOL. Morris wrote at 6/22/2002:
You mean that moron? I dare not ask him anything!JK (and that does NOT go for J.K.Rowling)...
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Morris wrote at 6/22/2002:
Wow man, this must be your longest review ever... and it's totally worth it!!!I love the fact the we both loved this movie. It is simply extraordinary.