FILM Review: The Amazing Spiderman

[Rachel Galvin]

By Rachel Galvin

(Some spoilers perhaps)

Superhero fans are not as interested in this reboot as they are the Dark Knight finale, but they are wondering what director Marc Webb will do differently. This certainly is a different film than the other three. It seems to delve more completely into the mind of Spiderman (Andrew Garfield) and his origins. Some say Webb's rendition felt more independent than big budget. Although some of the plot lines are similar, such as the death of Uncle Ben, it seems like a brand new story, rather than simply a remake of any sort.

In this film, his uncle is played by Martin Sheen and his aunt by Sally Field. Unfortunately, their A-list talent is near invisible in this picture. They are somehow not given enough meat to hang onto, especially Sally Field. Garfield, who is known for movies like "Social Network," among others (and Doctor Who fans will recognize him as well), does a good job as Spiderman. He presents a darker, more complicated persona with a few quirks. His romance with Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone) is definitely fun to watch. Denis Leary makes a good Captain Stacy and Rhys Ifans does a good job as the Lizard a.k.a. Curt Connors.

On first glance, this is a very entertaining and action-packed film. The CGI of the lizard is very good and the IMAX 3-D is probably among the best I have seen. But after further analysis, it falls apart. Going in with low expectations, the film still ranked as enjoyable, but the subplots fell away one after another, making those leaving the theater wonder what happened to ____ and what about ___, why did he do ___ that way and did he just suddenly forget _____. Also, there is a teaser at the end, which seems totally unnecessary and Connors' character is whispered to by an invisible demon of sorts, reminiscent of the Green Goblin or Renfield in Bram Stoker's Dracula. This voice, which actually happens several times in the movie, was a disappointing addition. The plot, although it uses some things that are more similar to the comic books, also deviates. In addition, the lizard, as many leaving the theater mentioned, looked more like the Hulk at times, as it ripped off its clothing revealing its green skin. Yes, it transformed back and forth several times, which, according to a certain fanboy source, is not supposed to happen.

Look for appearance by Stan Lee. It was priceless!

If you leave analysis to the side, you can enjoy this film. (It will be interesting to get the fanboy take on it, however).