The Meaning Behind the Mask (Spider Man: Across the Spider Verse)

You think that the meaning of Spider-Man is that he is a man with the abilities of a spider. But being Spider-Man is way more than just that and the new sequel to Into the Spider-Verse makes this a big theme within the narrative as it makes every spider person in the multiverse what they are. Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse is not only a revelation in animation but as well for superhero stories especially ones where characters like Peter Parker, Miles, and/or Gwen Stacy are at the center.

The sequel brings back Miles Morales to the big screen on another adventure through the multiverse with a new threat that will have repercussions on characters we all care about and their subsequent worlds. Without revealing too much, this adventure is bigger and even better than the last. Not only does it cater to fans of the Spidey-esque movies and tv shows in the past but video games and comics as well. The amount of Easter Eggs and references to this part of the Marvel universe is abundant and should be fun for repeat viewing but that is not what makes this movie enjoyable.

But what makes this movie so special to the Spider-Verse lore is the rules and what they call 'canon events'. All main points in a Spider Man's life (or Spider Woman's life) rely on instances like the death of someone they care about as well as the genetically engineered spider that gave them their powers. These instances are in play here when Miles’ relevance is questioned. It is a commentary on destiny and imposter syndrome that works so well as Miles finds himself as an individual and as a superhero in his own right while on top of that trying to be a Spider-Man that does indeed break the rules, and boy, does he.

From its grandeur animation styles, great script, and memorable characters, the sequel does manage to surpass expectations with not only its visuals but with the focus and care toward Miles Morales, the perfect successor to Peter Parker. We have yet to see him in live action but considering how well audiences are receiving these movies, it is only a matter of time before Sony and Marvel integrates it with the Multiverse storylines coming through in other MCU properties.

Miles is the only reason everyone is coming to see this film. He has what every Spider-Man is known for, the charisma, charm, and youth as well as the pain and struggle he goes through that makes him just as relatable if not more. As an Afro-Latino character, he portrays the struggle of a mixed-race teen trying to find his place in the world. Everyone has an idea of what it means to be a Spider-Man – or a superhero in general – and that is you cannot save everyone. Miles struggles with this fact but you cannot help but root for him to be able to change it.

Miles is not the only one taking center stage this time around. With the opening scene itself, you realize that Gwen is also now a vital part of the Spider-Verse trilogy not only as a Spider-Woman but as a ‘Gwen Stacy’ and what that role entails. Her universe, for one thing, is significantly visually different as it works like a mood ring, relying on her emotions when it comes to colors but there is more to what makes her side of the Spider-Verse special. Her fear of losing aspects of her life such as being a friend, or a daughter brings more agency to the character or at least to this iteration of the character. As she says, her life always depends on falling in love with Spider-Man and sometimes that does not end well. She breaks these rules by being a superhero in her own right because she does not want to be defined only by these aspects. Despite keeping a wall around herself for years after the death of her best friend and leaving her dad, there is only one person her heart is open to and that is Miles.

The previous film only teases what these two could be together. The sequel solidifies their dynamic together, and how well they fit together, work together, and are meant for each other. They care for each other (even if these methods of showing it are questionable). Their chemistry is so palpable it drips off the screen and you cannot help but root for these two.

Like its large narrative, the animation is top-notch. Every scene, every shot is a work of art. Anyone who does not appreciate comics, or the first film will never understand the praise for the animation style for bringing a medium to life. This film goes further to being a true comic book-inspired film by including little blurbs that explain words that the characters use to have a better understanding of what they mean. It is also great that in every alternate universe we see, they look distinctly different. From Hobie Brown's propaganda aesthetic to the bright colors of Mumbattan, the ideas done for each world are well thought out, unique fitting to the specific Spider personality. 

Apart from its aesthetic and tributes to the iconic character, Across The Spider-Verse is a great sequel, epic as it is, and works for anyone who has been for a great exciting superhero epic. Sony is outdoing themselves with the spider man properties and hopefully, it stays as polished and well done when they bring Miles Morales to live action.