Spinning a web, not a yarn

Rating: Null/10 (18 June 2002)

Whilst I enjoyed Spider-Man, I, like some other reviewers, was a bit disappointed, and I don't think it's as good as some are giving credit for. For instance, I thought the Star Wars movie was much better, in spite of atrocious dialogue. I had heard that there was a good story but there wasn't. It needed more plot and I fear that the follow-ups could be flops if the storylines aren't improved. I have no qualms about the cast, because they were all perfect, especially Tobey Maguire in the title role, but then I knew he was a star in the wings beforehand. Dafoe was actually more recognisable as the Green Goblin than he was in 'Shadow of the Vampire'if indeed it were he behind that ridiculous metal mask. In my view, the gorgeous Kirsten Dunst was totally wasted in this part. Just when I thought she was shedding the teen image behind her, along comes this character she was playing four years ago. She did an adequate job, but this role is just going to chain her as an evergreen teen, which would be a pity. My real gripe is that red hair. Now, listen here, Kirsten, you are one of the most fabulous blondes on the planet, and I don't like you with red hair! Can MJ take a leaf out of Reese Witherspoon's book, and 'go blonde' for the sequel? (Sorry, Reese, I know you are a real blonde.) This is the best comic book film I've seen for ages but it's nowhere near up to the first 2 Superman movies, which had those 'moments' to treasure. There are some good moments, but overall, the movie is not memorable.