Amazing, Spidey! Truly amazing!

Rating: 10/10 (7 July 2004)

*********** WARNING, POSSIBLE SPOILERS ************
Finally, a sequel that outdoes the first film. I have been waiting for this one since I saw the first one on it's opening day, and it was well worth the wait. This film is amazing, and then some.
All the questions I asked at the end of the first film are answered in the second. Will Harry find out Peter is Spider Man? If he does, will he forgive him or avenge his father? Will he tell Mary Jane? Will she stand by him if he does? What if Aunt May finds out? I won't tell you the answers, but these questions and more are revealed; and there are clues given at the end that possibly set up who the villians will be in the third film.
I am aware that some of the CGI seems a bit "cartoony." This didn't bother me, because after all, the movies are based on comic books. I think the obvious cartoony moments add to the film, as opposed to detracting. I loved the scenes where Dr Octopus shakes everything in sight as he approaches. It was as if Sam Raimi was nodding his head to this effect used in the Jurassic Park films, as well as Godzilla.
But what I loved most was Mary Jane's refusal to just accept that she and Peter cannot be together. She wasn't worried that he might not always be able to be there for her. Instead it's her that is going to be there for him. Woo-hoo! Talk about girl power and women's lib and all that. A woman who takes care of herself and her man. You go girl!
So now I must humbly bow to the genius of Sam Raimi. In the immortal words of Wayne and Garth, "we're not worthy!" Sam, you have captured the spirit of Stan Lee's Spider Man with eloquence and grace. Your vision has translated into two films that go beyond expectation, and will be remembered and cherished by many. (Okay, so I'm laying it on a little thick) I can hardly wait for the third film. Keep up the great work.
Rank: 10