A Rare Superior Sequel

Rating: Null/10 (1 July 2004)

The first (but definitely not last) sequel to Sam Raimi's movie version of one of the most popular comic super-heroes of all time. While already dipping into self-parody, as all movie franchises seem to eventually do, this film was actually more enjoyable than the first. There's more humor this time around, but it's well placed--not the stupid one-liners that Hollywood action movies are infamous for. The special effects are better the second time around, but Spidey still looks CGI in a few scenes early on. Thankfully I didn't notice it as much as the film progressed, so it didn't distract from the action. Doc Ock's effects were very well done. Story-wise its a bit predictable, and like most comics prone to exposition and flakey science. But that's all excusable, not only because it's based on such a comic, but because the characters are what makes this story. Every main character goes through changes in this film. Rare for a sequel!
The film opened yesterday, and I'd recommend it to everyone who at least partially enjoyed the first movie. Everyone else can go re-watch Spawn!
Rating: 3 1/2 out of 5 'nuff said's
Wife Factor: She loved it, even though she forgot what happened in the first movie, and so was a little confused by the subplot.
Highbeam Factor: Although it's later in the movie this time, Mary Jane Watson does not let us down!