Who's Doing it Like Miles?

Review: Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

By Sachaly Rosario Rivera

This movie altered the chemistry of my brain when it came out in 2018.

As soon as the movie started, I was immediately captivated. The animation is incredibly vibrant and unique. It has this almost 3D effect that could definitely hurt someone's eyes if they stared for too long. Not my eyes, though. I could watch this movie on repeat and never get tired of it. The animation makes the action and fight scenes dynamic. Sometimes it feels like you might as well be in the scene too.

The multiverse concept is in no way new to the realm of film. However, this movie takes it on in an interesting way. Animation as the medium allows this. The other spider people from other universes stay in the style of that universe. They don't change just because they're in a new place. This gives a visual representation of all the differences they possess amongst each other. It makes for a very nice group photo.

Kingpin being the villain of this movie, is wildly entertaining. His proportions are so hilarious but can be very intimidating at the same time. I don't know what I would do if I saw a guy like him. Once viewers learn about his motivations, they can't help but feel sorry for him. Grief can change a person.

I would be remiss, not to mention the soundtrack. The soundtrack is amazing. It is the bow on top of the present that is the animation. It has depth, range, emotion, and so much more.

I love Miles Morales. As a Puerto Rican person who loves superheroes, it warms my heart to see him. I lost my mind when I found out he was Puerto Rican too! Miles’ identity of being Black and Puerto Rican brings representation to countless people. There are many Black and Hispanic people who don't think people can be both identities. Miles shows that people like him do exist. Seeing his parents openly show their love and care for him is a much-needed display of Black and Hispanic Love that is missing from mainstream media. Miles is a clear product of his parents. He is a determined, hard-working, intelligent young man with a strong sense of justice. Not to mention his creativity! It is because of who Miles is that he perseveres throughout this movie and carves out his identity as Spider-Man.

It’s hard to put all my feelings and thoughts on this movie into words. Spider-Man Into the Spider-Verse, or as I always call it, Into the Spidey Verse, is one of my favorite movies of all time. Everything about it makes me happy. It brought much-needed recognition and respect to the animation genre. I will always admire Miles for his leap of faith. He makes me want to strive for the best version of myself. Thank you, Miles, for everything you have done for people who look like you and me.