It may be time to celebrate and rejoice because Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse, feels like it’s shaping up to be one of or if not the best, film of 2023. Even crazier, to admit, one eagled-eyed fan @_ricebowl_ noticed on Twitter that one of the greatest variations of the webhead, Spectacular Spider-Man, from the brilliance and inner workings of Greg Weisman, is set to make an appearance in the film. And Director Chris Miller confirmed the theory. Now all of us at the Illuminerdi are left with one question Are Marvel and Sony going all in to rally fans for a possible Season 3, or are fans in store for an experience like none other this summer?
Yes… That is The Spectacular Spider-Man In That Spider-Man Across The Spider-Verse Poster
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However, seeing the iconic Spectaucluar Josh Keaton variant appear is surreal. Still, upon further inspection of the official Across The Spider-Verse poster, I noticed Insomniac Spider-Man, along with a few other renditions of classic Spidey cartoons. Still, something gives off the impression that this film is hiding a few story elements, and that’s a good thing to think about until the subsequent trailer releases or marketing officially begins.
But that’s an article for another day; today, we’re discussing the return of an all-time classic portrayal and a solid reflection of what makes Spider-Man genuinely iconic and memorable.
A Misunderstood Masterpiece
For those who don’t know, Spectacular Spider-Man first premiered fifteen years ago, on March 8th, 2008. Fans were immediately captivated, by the strong writing, attention to comics, and detail in terms of respecting the source material while building a foundation for the character of Spider-Man to reflect his film counterparts and expanding the lore and humanity of Peter Parker.
The series was innovative in its ability to bring comics to life, from the art design feeling kinetic and taking inspiration from the classic John Romita Sr. to the morals and integrity of the early panels from the creative inception of the late Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. However, it was just pure fun and, to an extent, relatable. Weisman was strategic in his placement of what age range Peter should reside in, and placing him in high school, felt like the correct choice.
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Let me explain the writing was the most vital element of the series, from having Peter juggle his dual life while navigating his internal friendships and how his actions led to consequences. For example, there was a storyline centered around Harry Osborne being addicted to drugs, which was allegorical and symbolic of early comics toeing around the line of the drug pandemic. But Weisman replaced drugs for performance enhancer substances that later factor into an identity crisis with who the Green Goblin was. It was a sense of role reversal that toyed with the audience while planting multiple red herrings now and then, feeding food for thought.
Elevating The Source Material
Another accolade that Spectacular achieved was how to create one of the best symbiote narratives and illustrate the push and pull of addiction while having judgment and will be clouded by repressive memories and choices. In the realm and lore of Spectacular Spider-Man, Venom does appear. Still, once again, the writing elevates the source material while establishing strong symbolism and giving the audience a sense of connection.
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However, other storylines would overlap, and easter eggs were planted, which correlated to the impression and success of world-building while establishing continuity, leaving the series feeling fresh and unique from its predecessor or the spin-offs that came after.
Though one element of praise that makes Spectacular Spider-Man stand apart is the voice acting and the impressive range of talent, from Josh Keaton possessing the ability to channel’s Spidey’s charisma during brief moments of quipping. At the same time, it is respecting Peter’s humanity and morals. All elements are foundational to what makes Spider-Man the greatest hero. Other memorable names were John Dimaggio, Steve Blum, Vanessa Marshal, and James Arnold Taylor. All are considered voice actor royalty.
To close, Greg Weisman created a love letter to the brilliance and strength of our favorite Web Head. If you pay attention to other latest portrayals, many elements of that Spectacular can be felt and referenced.
As of now, Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse looks to be unique, and more details will be revealed soon, but for the time being, let us celebrate this moment and rejoice one of the greats is back.
The last question remaining is what else Sony has in store this June.
Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse swings to theaters this Summer on June 5, 2023.
Are you excited about Spider-Verse? What do you think Sony and Marvel have in store? Did you ever watch Spectacular Spider-Man? As always, post a like, comment, and follow us on all social media, we’re always watching.
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