"Spins a Web Any Size, Catches Thieves Just Like Flies"

Rating: 8/10 (30 June 2004)

Spider-man 2 opened today and I was elated as my local multiplex had a showing at 11 in the morning. I rushed to get there and I wasn't surprised at the multitude of people there. Spider-man 2 has been hyped for a while and this movie lived up to its top billing. By far. The film picks up 2 years after the first one left off as Peter is in college and working as a pizza delivery boy, but failing miserable at both thanks to his "extracurricular activities". Mary Jane is in school and doing quite well for herself as an actress. Harry has taken over the Osborne corporation from his deceased father and is also hell-bent on avenging his father's death. The story moves quickly,but not too fast as to take away from plot development. Peter meets Dr. Octavius,a scientist whom Peter is writing a paper on, through Harry. Dr. Octavius is working on an experiment with fusion and has a horrible accident which leaves him with 4 metal limbs causing him to work for evil. But Spider-man isn't so anxious to stop him, as Peter gives up being the web slinger to live a normal life. That's all I'll say without giving away the WHOLE movie, but that's a good outline. I found Spider-man 2 to be absolutely delightful and even better than its predecessor. No movie this year has mixed humor,action,drama,and heart felt emotion like this film. What really helps is all of the original cast is back, even though Tobey Maguire almost backed out due to an injury. The scene stealer in this film is J.K. Simmons as Jonah Jameson. His character is given much more screen time and has some really funny lines. Just like the first, this movie has re-watch value and that is a major plus. It also sets up the 3rd installment in the series without giving away too much. All in all, it's a wonderful film that everyone should see be it young or old. This is why we go to the movies.