Soars Above the Rest

Rating: 9/10 (2 February 2005)

Since "Superman" (1978) became the first "A" picture based on comic book characters, numerous comic book superheroes has appeared on the big screen, most notably "Batman," "XMen," "Hellboy" and "Spiderman." However, until now, the comic book franchises have always suffered slightly from the melodramatic limitations of their origins. As one who did not like the original "Spiderman" film, I was pleasantly surprised to find "Spiderman 2" is not only superior to the first movie, "Spiderman 2" transcends the genre. Well written and acted, with Oscar-caliber special effects, in a less competitive year "Spiderman 2" would have been a Best Picture nominee. My only quibble is the lack of clarity for the plot references to the first movie. This quibble aside, "Spiderman 2" is an exciting, poignant, romantic movie with fully realized characters and satisfying ending. I give "Spiderman 2" a "9."