Sam Raimi has truly stepped it up!!

Rating: 10/10 (30 June 2004)

There is an interesting sequence in one of the Scream movies where the characters discuss movie sequels, debating on how there are a few sequels which have actually managed to surpass the original. IMO Spiderman 2 is one such movie which at every level out does the previous installment.
Sam Raimi proves his movie making genius by delivering a movie which is a near perfect blend of the various ingredients which help make a true blockbuster. Great character building, slick editing, spectacular action scenes, strong performances, good dialogues and some decent humor make Spiderman 2 a worthwhile experience. The script is well interwoven with the characters and the storyline to provide a a certain amount of fluidity which was lacking a bit in the first movie. It always is a big challenge, while filming a sequel, to provide the right references and build a relation to the original without losing out on the identity of the characters. Sam Raimi handles this aspect in a great way and which is what makes Spiderman 2 very special. The plot is simple. Dr Otto Octavius, a genius working on his path breaking experiment on fusion and energy mass, suffers from the effects of his treatise gone horribly wrong. This incident leaves him with four super strong limbs that gain control over his cerebrum forcing him to destruct and destroy. Harry Osborne uses him, through a deal, to get Spiderman whose death has now become his primary obsession in life. Meanwhile Spiderman is having his own problems, almost like an identity crisis. The angst and agony through which Peter Parker goes through is soundly portrayed which provides a great connection with the character. Tobey Maguire handles the emotional scenes on a near flawless level putting to rest any doubts on his casting in this role. You don't have a person who raves and rants while going through his troubles but a person who tries his best to come to terms with the situation in his life in a manner which truly befits a superhero. The interlude between Peter and his aunt May which eventually helps Peter decide on his priorities in life is a great scene. It does not go overboard with emotions but yet creates the necessary effect. There are some great action scenes and it is plain obvious that every dollar has been well spent on the special effects/CGI. The train scene towards the end is truly spectacular and so is every scene featuring the Doc and Spiderman in action. The flaws in this movie are too few and don't justify any mention on account of the overall result which the movies provides. It probably is one of the best comic book adaptations of all time. Sam Raimi has stepped up the bar to a height which might prove difficult for anyone to surpass. kudos to him. GREAT JOB!!!