A near perfect movie

Rating: 10/10 (1 June 2002)

Whenever a studio decides to do a comic book adaptation, they walk the tightrope of having to please the die-hard comic book fans while at the same time, bringing the story up-to-date and making it entertaining and relevant.
What makes this movie click is top-notch acting, especially from Tobey Maguire (Wonder Boys, Cider House Rules). He elevates the role of Peter Parker from comic book serial to that of a real person, complete with human weaknesses and imperfections. Ebert wrote that his acting is "pitch perfect", and I couldn't agree more. The rest of the cast is not chopped liver either. Kirsten Dunst shines opposite Tobey, and the audience can actually believe that there is a real chemistry between them.
The story is fun, not taking itself too seriously, while at the same time, allowing itself to develop in order to bring the characters closer to the audience.
Special effects are good, but not great. I will say that it is refreshing to see a movie of this caliber invest the time to make the story real. 100% recommended. One of the best of the year, for kids and adults alike.