tedious

Rating: Null/10 (9 May 2002)

This is one of the worst of the superhero genre movies. Here are the reasons:
1. The script is terrible; infantile and predictable.
2. Tobey Maguire is no different here than in The Cider House Rules. I'm frankly tired of his subtle, introverted imp act. This actor seems the same in every role.
3. The special effects are all computer generated. They look impressive but don't allow Spiderman to have a character in costume.
4. James Franco as Parker's friend is too similar an actor to Maguire; namely an expressionless face and an introvert.
5. Kirsten Dunst is great but can barely overcome the vacuous character.
6. Parker's aunt and uncle are played by beloved verteran actors. Too bad the script makes them so corny and superficial.
7. Dafoe's villain is so cliche ridden that he's a bore. Nothing compared to Nicholson's Joker and Carey's Riddler.
8. The production design is devoid of any creativity. Where's the comicbook imagination.
The movie is certainly a pleasant enough diversion. There are some enjoyable sequences especially when Parker is discovering his powers in a high school cafateria. Perhaps movie goers are dazzled by the effects. However, considering high expectations, it is a MAJOR disappointment.