Upon Further Review
Hello CBMers!!!
After watching a film in multiple viewings, my opinions on them become more defined and clear. These reviews entail three parts: the good, the bad, and the questionable. After the compilation will come the final grade for the film.
"I made a choice; this is my path."
-Peter Parker
The Amazing Spiderman 2
What's it about?
In this sequel, we learn of Peter Parker's adventures as he balances post high school life and Spiderman duty. All the while still trying to learn the truth about his parents, and their connection to Oscorp. It all comes to confrontation as Peter's quest leads him into the dark world of Oscorp, and their many secrets.
The Good
• Acting. The acting was incredible, the characters are fully formed. Emotional and compelling performances keep you invested throughout a convoluted plot.
• Spiderman. The greatest big screen Spiderman ever, it's true. Outstanding costume and personality. Poignant and selfless, the film portrays what feels like a wonderful definition of Spiderman.
• Action/SFX. Several great battle scenes, including a very intriguing final action scene.
• Garfield. He hates Mondays. Andrew Garfield has come to perfectly encapsulate Spiderman, to the point of forever being identified as Spiderman/Peter Parker.
• Plot. This is a tricky point, but for me, being as big a superhero/comic book fan, the plot works great with an interesting setup to future installments.
• New York City. Never.have you seen Spiderman in his true environment, as it is on display throughout this film.
The Bad
• Dialogue. Some almost cringe worthy lines. A ton of cliched lines rummaged about.
• Pace. The pacing of the film can be very uneven and at times confusing. Back story and ancillary distractions take away from overall fast pace.
• Convolution. The uninitiated(quoting Bane) or those unfamiliar with Spiderman mythos, will very likely feel the film is weighted down with minor characters, who operate with little motivation.
The Questionable
• Peter, why are you not using Bing?
• Seriously? You're going to have a "moment" to a Phillip Phillips song?
In the end
I initially admired the first Amazing Spiderman, entirely due to Andrew Garfield's performance. In subsequent views it kind grated down and lost its appeal somewhat. Certainly this film feels very similar, and Andrew Garfield further enhances his profile as the perfect Spiderman/Peter Parker. There are cheesy parts, yes. There are sweet sappy parts, yes. There are compelling and exciting parts, yes. And I could not stop running the gambit of emotions while watching; grin firmly set upon my face. I was enthralled, I was inspired, I was saddened, I laughed, and maybe even cried a little. Just a fun true Spiderman film. Very special ending as well.
Grade
B+
Thanks for reading and take care.