Amazing Spider-Man

Rating: 10/10 (5 July 2004)

Spider-Man 2 does what is rare in a sequel--it's better than the first film. I still love the first movie, but this one has more depth, more heart. I like Doc Ock much better than Green Goblin (although he is so creepy), and seeing more of Jamison was a treat as well. But especially enjoyable was unmasking Spider-Man--getting to see the actual facial expressions as Peter (as Spidey) struggles with losing his powers, stopping the runaway subway, etc.--that's what was truly wonderful. Peter's struggles are what make this movie so great. Tobey Maguire's eyes say it all as poor Peter faces one dilemma after the other. Finally a movie about a superhero gets it right (all the Batman movies just didn't get that we wanted to see stuff about Bruce Wayne's struggles as Batman--not special effects and villains out the ying yang). And the opening credits were awesome! I have seen the movie twice already and look forward to seeing it again.