Spider-Man 2 (PG) Review

Overall Rating

Great action sequences
Much more developed than the first film
A++ performances

May be a little drama-heavy for some
Quite slow in the beginning

Spider-Man 2 - Spiderman started off by proving itself as the most entertaining superhero film in a long time and its sequel will only further justify that claim. This isn't some lame attempt to cash in on the first. Back are Sam Raimi and the original cast. Add in a new villain, more drama, and even more spectacular action and you know they've struck gold again.

The premise is simple. Two years have passed since Peter Parker started his career as a crime fighter. Now things are looking bleak, as his crime fighting antics are interfering with his college life, rent and, not to mention, Mary-Jane. To top it all, another villain has emerged. Introducing Doctor Octopus; a brilliant yet persistent scientist, transformed insane and highly dangerous individual with four mechanical arms. Yikes. The crazy Doctor wreacks havoc and it's up to Spidey to stop him. Easy? I think not.

For the first half of the film you see Peter in less than admirable states, from his run-down apartment to his non-existent social life, as Maguire efficiently showed his talents as an actor. The other cast were also pushed to the limit this time, as there are more emotional scenes. Nontheless, they pulled it off perfectly, and, most importantly, believably. Franco reprises his role as vengeful son, and his hate for Spidey causes friction between him and Peter. Kudos to the rest of the cast too, including J. K. Simmons (J.J Jameson).
However, you'll be most impressed by new addition Alfred Molina, aka Doc Octopus's performance. Molina extracted sympathy and respect from viewers though the likable Dr. Otto Octavius, and, within a blink of an eye, made the audience loathe him as the evil Doc Ock. Now there's a good actor ;).

The special effects, which are integral to the film, are something you need to see to believe. Most of it, though rendered in 3D, are so seamlessly and effectively portrayed that my attention was never drawn away from the action. And what action! From a bank to a clock tower to the top of a moving train, each sequence is beautifully choreographed and painfully exciting. With that said, the film is also delicately balanced in terms of drama and action.

Overall, Spider Man 2 is the kind of film that all other superhero films should acknowledge; a great blend of action, drama and great acting. One can only imagine what effect the third and final film would have on us.