It usually takes many years for a movie to ferment and age (even if it’s a classic) before it’s remade. The Amazing Spider-man follows only 5 years on the heels of Spider-man 3, the third in the trilogy that starred Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst. It has been dubbed a “reboot” and makes use of some of the same production team, but a fresh cast, screenwriter and director set it apart from the previous series. These changes make a big difference to a franchise which looks better, tells the story in a more personal way and makes the older series seem redundant and boring. Yes, the original was made in 2002, and technology has come a long way in 10 years, but the new Spider-man is cooler, more likeable and generally a much more personable character.
This gets pulled off well by Andrew Garfield as Peter Parker / Spider-man and Emma Stone as Gwen Stacy. Garfield has been around for a few years in smaller roles and was named as one of Variety’s “10 Actors to Watch” back in 2007. He played Eduardo Saverin in The Social Network (Saverin is one of the co-founders of Facebook). Stone is a recognizable face from movies such as Zombieland and has appeared in TV shows and even had a voice acting role in the Sleeping Dogs game. They are both really good characters and it’s a much more refreshing approach to their relationship than the cold shoulder Mary Jane Watson gives Peter Parker through most of the previous franchise. Yes, I know they ended up together, but as a viewer I wasn’t convinced with the fact that MJ didn’t even take notice that Peter was alive, let alone found him attractive, it all seemed a bit too “I think I’ll like you now because you may be a super hero” for my liking. MJ was initially a rival with Gwen Stacy for Peter Parkers affections in the comic book series, and this may mean that a Mary Jane will be introduced into the sequel, due for release in 2014.
As far as the story line go, The Amazing Spider-man won’t surprise you with anything spectacular, and you may even find yourself comparing some aspects to the 2002 version. I enjoyed this take on the story though and found it to move along a lot smoother and enjoyable than the original. There is also a new villain to contend with and this particular bad guy gives Spider-man a decent run for his money. The suspense and action are well produced with a good music score and eye pleasing special effects throughout. It is apparent that it would be enjoyed best in 3D, so if you have a 3D TV that’s the way to go with this.
The villain may come across as a bit scary for younger viewers, and I’d say that the PG-13 rating is well suited to this movie. As mentioned, try watching it in 3D, although HD should be a decent equivalent for home viewing. If you have teen kids this is worth buying, but renting on a Sunday Blockbuster Movie Night should be suitable. For a list of where to get the most value for money and the least scratched discs in Port Elizabeth send me a message and I’ll point you in the right direction.
Dubbel Gee’s Rating: 7/10
Author: Garth Ginsburg
Website: http://dubbelgeesreview.wordpress.com
