Last Friday, May 2, “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” the newest installment in the rebooted film series devoted to fans’ favorite webslinger was released in theaters. In this sequel, Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield, “The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus”) delves once again into the mystery of his parents’ disappearance while also juggling relationship problems with his girlfriend, Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone, “The Help”), and protecting the city of New York from constant threats.
The relationship between Stacy and Parker plays a much more vital role in this film than in its predecessor and often acts as the catalyst for many of Parker’s decisions in his personal life and as Spider-Man. The prevalence of this relationship actually turns out to be an asset for the film, as it adds an emotional dynamic that was not as present in the first installment. Fans will certainly be rooting for the relationship to succeed, despite the many obstacles that face the couple. The on-screen chemistry between Garfield and Stone is also undeniable, especially considering that the two are in a relationship off-screen, which makes their fictional relationship all the more endearing.
While the execution of the romantic storyline is commendable, “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” may include one too many plotlines overall. Over the course of the film, three separate villains are introduced, including Electro (Jamie Foxx, “Django Unchained”), the Green Goblin (Dane DeHaan, “Chronicle”) and Rhino (Paul Giamatti, “Sideways”). Though each of these villains is dynamic and interesting on his own, the film is simply not long enough to pay each of them the attention they are due. This is especially true for Electro, who is driven to villainy, not by inherent evil, but by mental illness. Despite his evil deeds, Electro is a character that audiences will feel sympathy for because he is more lonely than he is evil. Yet, after his original transformation into a villain, Electro’s character receives little development and is tossed aside unceremoniously as a new villain takes the stage.
Though there may be too many storylines at play in “The Amazing Spider-Man 2,” the film is worth seeing if only for the dazzling special effects. The most captivating scenes come during Spider-Man’s battles with Electro. As Spider-Man weaves through the skyscrapers of New York, tendrils of pulsating electricity splay out around him like the roots of a radioactive tree, making him seem more miniscule than ever before. Electro himself is also very impressive, as Foxx has been transformed into a being essentially made of light.
Another positive aspect of the film is its use of comedy. This reboot’s version of Spider-Man is the sassy, sarcastic Spider-Man of the original comic books rather than the morose, tortured Spider-Man of the Tobey Maguire era. His interactions with villains are full of puns and one-liners that are sure to make audiences chuckle. This helps to make Parker’s character more likable as well, as it makes Spider-Man seem more human.
Garfield’s performance stands out as the most captivating acting in the film. Near the end of the film, Parker must cope with severe emotional trauma, and Garfield delivers such a convincing performance that audiences may find themselves shedding a tear or two.
DeHaan is also notable as Parker’s friend Harry Osborn and especially later as the Green Goblin. He is able to convey a level of desperation that allows the viewer to truly understand his motives and even feel sorry for him at times. His depiction of the Green Goblin is sinister and unsettling: a perfect combination for a villain.
Though many aspects of “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” could be improved, at its core, this film is an enjoyable experience. Those unfamiliar with the Spider-Man storyline may find themselves confused by the many interwoven plots, but even so, the comedy and special effects of the film can still be appreciated.
