"Spider-Man 2" Movie Review
What does it take to be a hero? What sacrifices have to be made to keep loved ones safe? Who has to be let go? These are questions that have haunted Peter Parker since he became Spider-Man, and it's starting to take a toll on him. In fact, his mind is so flooded with guilt and worry that he has begun to lose his powers.
Peter has to make a decision: to be or not to be? Is it really worth it to be a hero? Sure, he save lives and gets to beat up a criminal every now and then, but at what cost? Peter feels that he will have to give up any chance of being with Mary-Jane, and that fact is tearing him up inside.
The actors have stepped up their games for this film. Tobey Maguire plays out the emotionally distraught scenes well, but unfortunately he is rather awkward in the more comedic scenes. James Franco in no longer the socially unstable teen but the head of an empire, and he is all the darker for it. Kirsten Dunst is...well, if she can do anything it's scream. Now, on to the best part of the film: Alfred Molina.
Alfred Molina was perfection. From his witty humor, his smug brilliance, his attitude, his looks, to his speech, Molina dominated his role as Doc Ock. The CGI and puppeteering used to bring Ock's mechanical arms to life were used spectacularly. Could there ever be a better Doc Ock in any future reboot? It's doubtful.
The movie was overall well-written and well-directed. There were parts that felt like didn't flow well but the extended edition makes those quick scenes flow much better.
In conclusion, Spider-Man 2 improves on what hurt the first one. The personal choices, the heartache, and to an extent, even the fights. It's still just as fun as the first but it offers up questions that could really set off a fantastic discussion. It's a must-see.
© 2016 Nathan Jasper