Movie Review: Exploring the Visual Inspirations Behind Spider-Man

In the highly acclaimed 2018 animated film “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” we were introduced to Miles Morales, a young superhero from Brooklyn who encounters unexpected visitors from different dimensions. Read more.

Now, in the much-anticipated sequel, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” Miles, voiced by Shameik Moore, embarks on a thrilling journey alongside Gwen Stacy (Hailee Steinfeld), also known as Spider-Woman, into uncharted realms where multiple spider-powered individuals coexist.

For directors Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, and Justin K. Thompson, this sequel presented a unique opportunity to expand their creative horizons. Unlike the first film, which focused on designing characters within a single universe, the directors now had the chance to craft entire worlds inspired by the vast array of comic book narratives that have reimagined Stan Lee and Steve Ditko’s iconic web-slinging hero.

Thompson explains, “It’s almost like we’re jumping from one book to another. The goal was to take people on a journey and celebrate the incredible artistry of these different artists.”

Read more: Tom Holland Shared Views on His New Show “The Crowded Room”.

To achieve this ambitious vision, the production team reached out to the original creators behind the alternate “Spider-Man” visions, inviting them to contribute to the development of the film. Renowned artist Rick Leonardi, known for his work on the comic “Spider-Man 2099,” collaborated with the team to devise 3D animation techniques that faithfully capture his distinctive line work.

Additionally, Marvel Comics’ seasoned artist Brian Stelfreeze played a pivotal role in shaping the film’s interpretation of Jessica Drew, also known as Spider-Woman.

During a video interview conducted from various locations in the sprawling city of Los Angeles, a fittingly diverse setting resembling a Spider-Verse, the three filmmakers delved into the many ideas that influenced their creative process.

The upcoming sequel promises to transport audiences through a visually stunning adventure, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Spider-Man comics and embracing the contributions of renowned artists. Fans can eagerly anticipate a film that expands the Spider-Verse and pays homage to the artistic legacy that has made the web-slinger a beloved cultural icon.