Spider-Man 2 is the middle film in the recent blockbuster trilogy. In my opinion this is the best superhero movie of all time. It’s a good portrayal of the character, the action scenes are very well done, and it’s not just a shallow popcorn film.
The Set-Up
At the end of the original Spider-Man film, Spider-Man had just defeated the Green Goblin and the Green Goblin had accidentally been killed. Spider-Man’s real identity is Peter Parker and the Green Goblin’s real identity was Norman Osborn. Norman Osborn’s son Harry happens to be Peter’s best friend. Harry knows that Spider-Man killed his father but doesn’t know his father was the Green Goblin or that Peter is Spider-Man. He wants revenge on Spider-Man
At the beginning of 2, Peter is struggling with going to college, holding down a part-time job, and being Spider-Man. This complicates his relationships with his Aunt May, Harry, and his true love, Mary Jane. One day, Peter finds himself unable to be Spider-Man. He begins to try to live a normal life. This makes Peter Parker’s life easier, but it makes the world less safe.
A new super-villain emerges on the scene Doctor Octopus. Originally, he wants to create a cheap energy source for the entire world, but when his demonstration fails he becomes fused with his cyber, metal arms and becomes obsessed with finishing his project. This is bad because the demonstration blew up a building and finishing his experiment completely could blow up New York City. Doc Ock drags Spider-Man and his friends and family into his obsession. Peter realizes he has to sacrifice his happiness and go back to being Spider-Man.
Why It’s Great
This is a great movie because it strikes the perfect tone for a superhero movie. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it isn’t content to be a dumb action movie. There are a number of metaphors in the movie that don’t feel heavy-handed because they are organic parts of the story.
There is a major theme of natural gift, not being just a gift but a responsibility to the world. The entire plot hinges on it. That could come across as preachy, but director Sam Raimi handles this deftly.
In terms of action scenes, this is one of the best early 00s CGI actioners. The CGI isn’t distracting like it is in Spider-Man 3, it is more believable. The fight scenes between Spider-Man and Doctor Octopus have a feeling of real violence not often scene in comic-book movies. This is punctuated by some over-the-top horror film type shots. They are a little cheesy, but they’re fun and they don’t feel cheap.
In my opinion this is the pinnacle of superhero movies so far. It’s fun and true to the character but also has a lot of hidden depth. Movies like the Dark Knight and Kick-Ass might not have existed without this setting an example.
If you’re an action fan or Spider-Man fan you have to see this movie. If you’ve never given comic-book movies a chance, this is the one to try first.