Review of Spider-Man (2002) by Kaya H — 06 Aug 2015

When it comes to iconic superheroes, DC has loom large with its Justice League characters which are arguably the most recognizable comic book heroes, and the three biggest members had already jump to the screen (Tim Burton´s Batman, Richard Donner´s Superman, and the TV Wonder Woman series). Marvel has also some iconic superheroes but the biggest of the all had trouble with getting to the screen as his rights were basically in limbo. After numerous years of ideas and various directors coming and going, the mind behind the cult trilogy "Evil Dead" was the chosen one that adapted this beloved and iconic character.

Peter Parker is a nerdy teenager who is in love with one of the popular girls of his high school, but knows that he doesn't stand a chance to get her love. But when a radioactive spider bites Parker, he gains spider powers and will soon learn that with great power comes great responsibility.

Having to make an adaptation of a hero that counts with a humongous fan base is a difficult task but thankfully Sam Raimi and all three screenwriters (James Cameron, David Koepp, and Scott Rosenberg) managed to create one of the best summer blockbuster films I´ve seen. "Spider-Man" counts with an appropriate casting that deliver solid performances, even if most people don't like Maguire as Parker but I think it works as the whole point of Spider Man was the transformation of a teenager (symbolized as a geek) to a man (represented as a confident masked hero). Raimi directing is passionate and personal as he truly shows his love to the source material as he recreates numerous comic book panels with extreme subtlety (certain directors could take notes about this), impressive special effects that now look dated but they are still functional and believable enough, the film knows its concept is dumb and thus it has this campy vibe, themes that go from parenthood to post 9/11 unity, the comedy is actually funny, and the screenplay is possibly one of the best ones in the superhero genre as it flawlessly tells an origin story in less than 25 minutes and it has various memorable moments. With all that being said, that great screenplay is also its biggest issue as it starts masterfully but as the film goes on it loses power and ultimately becomes a cartoony film, and it also has a weak and forgettable villain that's lazily written.

"Spider -Man" is this innocent and campy superhero film that remains one of the best films of this oversaturated genre. Extremely memorable and highly fun to watch.