Finally, a comic-to-movie that works!

Rating: Null/10 (5 May 2002)

Most often the problem with movies based on comics is that the director focuses on action scenes and special effects, adding character development and subplot as an afterthought and resulting in messes like "Spawn".
With Spider-Man Sam Raimi has instead managed to stay true to the themes of the existing story, such as Peter Parker's guilt and frustration, and the burdens as well as the benefits that come with his new powers. This is due in part to Toby Maguire's great performance in the title role, portraying geeky unrequited love as well as ass-kicking bravado. The film works because it's not just about a superhero but the man behind the mask as well.
Kirsten Dunst and Willem Dafoe provide solid support with Dafoe admirably resisting the opportunity to ham it up. One criticism is the costume of the Green Goblin - the mask is so rigid and blank it robs the character of some of the twisted evil Willem Dafoe is so good at projecting. When Norman Osborn is arguing with himself in the mirror it's a worthy attempt to give some depth to the character but that vanishes as soon as the suit goes on.
The film moves along quite nicely after the basics are sorted out, with plenty of fast-paced action. It's here that Raimi uses his trump card - Spider-Man's mode of transport. Just like Superman made you believe that a man could fly, here you follow Spidey slinging down the street, sweeping over the traffic and brilliantly capturing the speed and exhilaration he feels. Even the "Woohoo!", which should seem plain silly somehow works.
Apart from the odd slightly overdone piece of romance (Kirsten Dunst's speech at the end in particular seems strained) the film has some great set-pieces and strong characters, making it a summer blockbuster that doesn't disappoint.