I'm a big fan of superhero movies. Something about individuals having super powers that they use for the good of humankind excites me.
And although Spider-Man is one of my favorite superheroes, when I saw the first preview for Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, I was less than thrilled. How many Spider-Man versions can they make? There have already been three different Spider-Man version movies made in the last twenty years, and that's not including any cartoon shows found on television. But I decided to give the movie the benefit of the doubt, and I went to go see it over the holiday break.
It is now my favorite Spider-Man movie and is the only animated film worthy of winning the Oscar for best animated feature film.
First of all, the animation was amazing. I'm usually not one to take notice in how well the animation of a movie is, but the animation style of this movie was so unique. Paying tribute to the original Spider-Man from Marvel comics, they managed to make the animation look like an actual comic book by combining 2D animation and 3D animation techniques.
Second, the writing of the movie is riveting. The film has the perfect balance of fast-paced action and quick wit. The action of the movie makes you feel like you have stepped into the pages of an actual comic book. And Miles Morales' teenage awkwardness and John Mulaney's Spider-Ham makes you laugh the entire movie.
And finally, the winning quality of the movie, it's inspiring message. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Versetells its audience that there is no stereotype when it comes to being a superhero. Whether you're an awkward Brooklyn-raised half Puerto-Rican and half-African-American teenager, a washed-up man in his late twenties, a quiet teenage girl, or even a pig… anyone can be behind the mask.
This unconventional superhero movie deserves the Oscar for its creativity, incredible story, and inspiring message. The story tells audience members that you don't need superpowers to be a superhero. If you have the heart and the drive, you can make a positive impact on the world around you.
