SPIDER-MAN [Archive] - Movie Fan Central Discussion Forums

dh1989

04-20-2002, 01:12 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
I've downgraded Sman from must see,to i'll think about it,to definite rental.It's looking just way too cheesy the more i see.They had me with the original trailer,maybe because it did'nt really show too much,but the more that's revealed,the more ridiculous it gets.

I can't get into a CGI Sman,for that matter i'll watch Final Fantasy again,Aki probably has more personality than that abomination doubling as the web slinger.Looks like a clunker on the same level as Time Machine.

Toby seems as if he's drinking pharmaceutical cocktails consisting of prozac,lithium,valium,and ritalin.

Dafoe is as pretentious and annoying as ever,i can't stand that grin,not at all menacing.

Dunce looks even more used out than in her previous effort(can't remember the name).Man,all she has is youth and a decent body,i feel sorry for her when she hits the big 25(old age in Holliswood),it's over babe.

I'm getting this vousa day feeling,more accurately a Batman Forever flashback when i watch the trailer,this just seems to have some more explosions.Ultimately that's all this is,a wannabe Batman(he already ripped Bman of once with Darkman).I'm sorry,Burton and Schumacker covered this territory already Monsieur Raimi,why don't you get started on a 4th Evil Dead?

The summer season is looking more mindless,and repetive than ever before.

I got burned with flashy trailers last year,but not this time.

Tomb Raider
JP3
Final Fantasy
AI

All horrendous films tat had exciting trailers,and honestly i dont think Sman even has a cool trailer,save for the original.A glorified Spawn is really what this reminds me of.And that outfit looked cool when i was a youngster,now it looks too silly to take seriously.

Have you seen THE CATS MEOW? If you have I can't believe you think Kirsten DUNST has no talent. And the CGI Spidey has much more life in him, than that lifeless chucnk of wasted screen called Aki in FINAL FANTASY. And Tobey does not look like he is high. The Green Goblin looks awesome. And I msut disagree with you on the summer and trailer thing. If you have seen trailers for films like MINORITY REPORT, REIGN OF FIRE, MEN IN BLACK II, or STAR WARS EPSIDOE II: ATTACK OF THE CLONES. I can't belive you said "The summer season is looking more mindless,and repetive than ever before". And A.I. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE and JURASSIC PARK 3 were both great and fun movies which also have good trailers. And TOMB RAIDER's trailer sucked the big one. If you saw that after the trailer, I feel sorry gor you.

Okay I got out of ahnd. You ahve your own opeinion. Chow.

thompsoncory

04-20-2002, 05:00 PM

Whoever says Kirsten Dunst has no talent is obviously blind. I watched INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE last night and she was the best out of all the actors, when she was 11!

Anyways, not to get off topic, I really am looking forward to SPIDER MAN. I downloaded all 9 clips from it this morning from CountingDown.com and it looks great!

dellamorte dellamore

04-20-2002, 09:30 PM

Yeah,when she was younger she was somewhat effective in that cute kid way,but she's goten worse with the passage of time,she has'nt andwill not make the transiton to serious adult actress,or even a comedic one.She'll fade soon enough,was tere noone else out there/

Toby cannot fill that suit,where's the beef is all i have to say,he's not imposing whatsoever,put some muscles on those bones.And he does looked stoned out of his mind,how the hell did he get the role.

I'm thinking Mulholland Drive was somewhat right about it's depiction of Hollywood as a criminal organization,controlled by thugs,gangsters,who shake people down,bribe,threaten,extort to get the people they want roles and to make certain people stars.It's theonly way to explain some of the recent idiotic choices with regards to so called blockbusters.

There's something fishy going on,i just don't know what it is.

Was there noone better than Toby,Dunce,and Dafoe.3 strikes you're out.I have to agree with Kici on this one,the casting for ths film is atrocious,and maguire is just boring(but i did like him in wonder boys andice storm,but please not this)

Onemore time,it's just Spawn with a bigger budget,and a couple of others i mentionedin the previous post,but mainly Spawn with regards to visuals,and Batman Forever with regards to script.

Bargain Bin time.

Scarface98.9

04-20-2002, 09:39 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
Yeah,when she was younger she was somewhat effective in that cute kid way,but she's goten worse with the passage of time,she has'nt andwill not make the transiton to serious adult actress,or even a comedic one.She'll fade soon enough,was tere noone else out there/

Toby cannot fill that suit,where's the beef is all i have to say,he's not imposing whatsoever,put some muscles on those bones.And he does looked stoned out of his mind,how the hell did he get the role.

I'm thinking Mulholland Drive was somewhat right about it's depiction of Hollywood as a criminal organization,controlled by thugs,gangsters,who shake people down,bribe,threaten,extort to get the people they want roles and to make certain people stars.It's theonly way to explain some of the recent idiotic choices with regards to so called blockbusters.

There's something fishy going on,i just don't know what it is.

Was there noone better than Toby,Dunce,and Dafoe.3 strikes you're out.I have to agree with Kici on this one,the casting for ths film is atrocious,and maguire is just boring(but i did like him in wonder boys andice storm,but please not this)

Onemore time,it's just Spawn with a bigger budget,and a couple of others i mentionedin the previous post,but mainly Spawn with regards to visuals,and Batman Forever with regards to script.

Bargain Bin time.
wow, thanx for seeing into the future. but u do know that most of the scenes w/ Tobey Maguire are about him as Peter Parker, not Spiderman. since he'd mostly be Parker, he's not witty, very strong (well he is, but doesn't look like it). ur comparing Spiderman to Spawn? that's just sad. ur assuming, which is one of the worst things ppl can do. but Dafoe has actually been said to be the best part of SM, saying he's one of the best, if not the best, comic book villain to be put in movies

SAI

04-21-2002, 07:32 AM

Spider-Man has just passed through BBFC, uncut, with a 12 certificate. This is great news as films at this category are often mildly cut (eg; Tomb Raider) to avoid a 15.

Strider

04-22-2002, 05:03 AM

Hey yo,

One quick question...Does anybody know when the soundtrack is going to be released???

Strider

Tuukka

04-22-2002, 02:11 PM

By TODD MCCARTHY (Variety's main critic, one of the most reliable critics around)

The man is better company than the spider in "Spider-Man." The long-awaited bigscreen incarnation of the 40-year-old Marvel Comics superhero emerges as a perfectly serviceable early-summer popcorn picture that will satisfy its core teen constituency and not displease general viewers looking for some disposable entertainment. In a perfectly competent film that's critically lacking in true inspiration or a poetic imagination that would take it to an exciting level, pic's happiest surprise is Tobey Maguire in the title role, as the young actor provides an emotional openness and vulnerability that gives this $120 million production its most distinctive flavor. With a May 3 opening, this Sony release will spin a huge B.O. web during the two weeks before the "Clones" arrive, and then hang in nicely for some time thereafter. Ancillary prospects and public want-see for projected sequels look very strong.
From his first appearance in "Amazing Fantasy" in 1962, Stan Lee and Steve Ditko's arachnid crime fighter stood out from the pack of other comic do-gooders by virtue of his humble background. Quite unlike the otherworldly Superman/Clark Kent and the millionaire Batman/Bruce Wayne, Peter Parker was a bashful, clumsy, ultra-straight, 98-pound weakling from working-class Queens. And so he remains in Sam Raimi's picture, the orphaned, bespectacled high school senior mercilessly picked on by class jocks as he moons over pretty redhead Mary Jane (Kirsten Dunst), whom he can't work up the nerve to talk to even though they've lived next door to one another since diaper days.

Pic's first, and better, half is devoted to Peter's makeover from campus dweeb to physically unique righter-of-wrongs. While visiting a Columbia U. science lab, Peter is bitten by a mutant blue-and-red spider. Next day, his vision is perfect and he's newly buff, and it isn't long before he discovers he's capable of spinning industrial-strength webs and walking up buildings.

He first uses his new strength and acrobatic skills to dispatch Mary Jane's a-hole b.f. in a school fight, then thinks to impress her by earning money in a wrestling challenge matched against a monster named Bone Saw. This entire apprenticeship section was always going to live or die on the charm and appeal of the actor playing Peter, and the initial sweet sensitivity Maguire conveys, followed by the growing thrill of self-discovery of his new superhuman abilities, proves captivating.

Peter's strictly larky use of his powers comes to an unwelcome end when his uncle Ben (Cliff Robertson), who with wife May (Rosemary Harris) has raised the boy, is killed in a Manhattan carjacking. Donning Spider-Man gear and swinging via self-generated threads from building to building like an urban Tarzan, he dispatches the culprit while deftly eluding police seizure. Already in this early major action sequence, though, something feels a bit off; the movement seems herky-jerky, the pursuit unnecessarily hurried, so that while the sight of the young crime-buster gallivanting through the nocturnal canyons of New York City is impressive, it lacks the desired visceral thrill.

Naturally, Spider-Man requires an adversary, and he gets one in the form of the Green Goblin (Willem Dafoe), an armor-plated fiend who zips around like a rabid snowboarder on a heavily armed glider dropping pumpkin bombs on uncomprehending foes. Like Spider-Man, the Goblin has a human identity, that of Norman Osborn, an ousted corporate arms manufacturer who becomes a Jekyll-and-Hyde upon consuming an experimental formula of his own devising. Unlike Peter, Norman can't control when he slips into his alternate self, and Dafoe's best moments come when the two sides of his personality argue with one another and flip back and forth as quickly as a light switch.

Unfortunately, when "Spider-Man" settles into full superhero mode an hour in, the conventional contours of David Koepp's script come fully to the fore. With the Green Goblin committing such heinous acts as blitzing a World Unity Festival in Times Square toplining Macy Gray and threatening to drop Mary Jane and a Roosevelt Island tram loaded with kids into the East River, he and Spider-Man face off in increasingly standard-issue good guy/bad guy fashion, with no bigger issues to give their rivalry special import. Further deflating the balloon is an abundance of over-cranked digital physical action that's singularly lacking in grace or the feel of real movement, human or animal.

Welcome compensation comes in the form of Peter's continued pursuit of Mary Jane, who remains oblivious to his dual personality for some time but eventually warms to his newfound confidence. For many teenage boys, pic's highlight will not be found among the action interludes but rather in the scene of Mary Jane, her flimsy shirt drenched by rain, peeling back the lower part of Spider-Man's facemask in order to kiss him while he's hanging upside down in a dark street.

Ironically, it's when "Spider-Man" sticks to simple human interaction that the film breathes and ingratiates itself. Chemistry between Maguire and the winning Dunst is excellent, and there are good moments, too, between Maguire and James Franco, who plays Norman's unhappy son and Peter's only friend at school, as well as with Robertson and Harris as Peter's doting substitute parents. Cackling behind his armored Goblin costume, Dafoe is stuck with routine villainy when not writhing through his transformations, while standout supporting turn is served up by J.K. Simmons, who brilliantly catches his piece's comicbook origins while snapping out funny one-liners as a cynical newspaper editor.

Physically imposing production is notable for Neil Spisak's production design, which involves considerable invention but also allows New York City to play itself without Gotham City-like stylization. James Acheson's costumes, beginning with the terrific ribbed Spider-Man outfit, are splendid, Danny Elfman's score punches things up in customary form, and Don Burgess' lensing, while accommodating the countless effects, makes the actors look great.

dh1989

04-22-2002, 07:28 PM

SPIDER-MAN tickets have gone on sale. Head over to http://www.fandango.com/ to get tickets or just head up to your local theatre and get them. I am seeing the movie on 5/3 at 7:00 PM. I am seeing it again on 5/14 at 4:00 PM and again on Sunday at the dame time. I am so damn excited. Is it May 3rd yet?

dellamorte dellamore

04-23-2002, 09:06 AM

Obviously that "critic" from Variety is a geekshlonging fanboy of Spiderman,who hasprobably read every one of th Sman comic books,so i can't take his review seriously.

Look at that aint it allright guys review of LOTR,he was gushing like mad over that film(that one was great though),i would'nt be surprised if there was saliva all over his key board after he was done typing(sorry for the visual).

The movie really does look like the pits,an instant rental,Raimi has ripped off so many other films and T shows before him(from what i've seen in the trailer),i cant count them all.

But is someone knows how to write,the can get people excited about almost anything.CGI Sman is a joke,i'll jut ply te videogame for that matter,or pop in Spawn andBatman Forever again.It will make a ton of cash though,because the cheeseheads are lining up already.Oh well.marketing still works.

Give me soft for digging,to ease this migraine i have over the hype surroundng this derivative and extrememly average effort.

[This message has been edited by dellamorte dellamore (edited 04-23-2002).]

Movie Hunter

04-23-2002, 10:48 AM

it looks like a great movie..i hope it ROCKS

Irene Manor

04-23-2002, 11:02 AM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
Yeah,when she was younger she was somewhat effective in that cute kid way,.

You consider her role in Interview as that of a cute kid. [shivers]

PS - Cool name. Makes me wanna see the flick.

MISFITS_Fiend

04-23-2002, 11:13 AM

No really, tell us how you feel. ; )

Well, everyone is entitled to their own opinion. I happen to like most of Sam Raimi's work (Evil Dead of course, but the Gift was an awesome movie as well). I think this will be a fantastic movie, and I can't wait to see it.

But then again, I like his other "pieces of crap" as well, so I guess I'm just a sheep following the herd, huh?

Tuukka

04-23-2002, 12:28 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
Obviously that "critic" from Variety is a geekshlonging fanboy of Spiderman,who hasprobably read every one of th Sman comic books,so i can't take his review seriously.

Look at that aint it allright guys review of LOTR,he was gushing like mad over that film(that one was great though),i would'nt be surprised if there was saliva all over his key board after he was done typing(sorry for the visual).

The movie really does look like the pits,an instant rental,Raimi has ripped off so many other films and T shows before him(from what i've seen in the trailer),i cant count them all.

But is someone knows how to write,the can get people excited about almost anything.CGI Sman is a joke,i'll jut ply te videogame for that matter,or pop in Spawn andBatman Forever again.It will make a ton of cash though,because the cheeseheads are lining up already.Oh well.marketing still works.

Give me soft for digging,to ease this migraine i have over the hype surroundng this derivative and extrememly average effort.

[This message has been edited by dellamorte dellamore (edited 04-23-2002).]

Sorry but I can't make any sense of your post. The "critic" of Variety, Todd McCarthy, gives a very analytical and objective review of the film. He gives good and bad points about it and says that it's a competent, but a bit unspirited summer actioner. In other words he thinks it's good, but not great. I can't find any fanboy drooling in his review, despite reading it twice.

Tuukka

04-23-2002, 12:34 PM

"The man is better company than the spider in "Spider-Man... perfectly competent film that's critically lacking in true inspiration or a poetic imagination that would take it to an exciting level... Already in this early major action sequence, though, something feels a bit off; the movement seems herky-jerky, the pursuit unnecessarily hurried, so that while the sight of the young crime-buster gallivanting through the nocturnal canyons of New York City is impressive, it lacks the desired visceral thrill... Unfortunately, when "Spider-Man" settles into full superhero mode an hour in, the conventional contours of David Koepp's script come fully to the fore. With the Green Goblin committing such heinous acts as blitzing a World Unity Festival in Times Square toplining Macy Gray and threatening to drop Mary Jane and a Roosevelt Island tram loaded with kids into the East River, he and Spider-Man face off in increasingly standard-issue good guy/bad guy fashion, with no bigger issues to give their rivalry special import. Further deflating the balloon is an abundance of over-cranked digital physical action that's singularly lacking in grace or the feel of real movement, human or animal... Cackling behind his armored Goblin costume, Dafoe is stuck with routine villainy when not writhing through his transformations."

I lifted those negative quotes straight from the Variety review, which finds a good balance between negative and positive arguments. How on earth does that sound like ramblings of a Spidey fan boy? I don't get it, Dellamore.

dellamorte dellamore

04-23-2002, 01:30 PM

Maybe i should have read the whole thing.Boy,does he know how to suck the fun out of the filmgoing experience.It's like he was analysing photosynthesis or something.

I was wrong that he sounded like a fanboy,he sounds like an elitists bore(as opposed to a Layman's bore).But i agree with him that a CGI Sman just does'nt work,it negates the most important element of a superhero offering(Batman,Superman),the human element.That's not exactly what he said,but that's what i got out of it,and i've said it before also.

Sorry,this film looks like a turd,give me Keaton and Nicholson in Batman.

Tuukka

04-23-2002, 01:44 PM

It's interesting how someonce gets claimed as an elitist bore because he tries to be objective and analytical and calls a film good, but not great.

SAI

04-24-2002, 07:39 AM

Dellamore, it's not really very fair, or very intelligent to make satements about a films quality having seen only a trailer and a few reviews.

Personally I think, other than the Goblin suit, which is still a big problem for me, all the signs are good for this film.

QUOTE
that outfit looked cool when i was a youngster,now it looks too silly to take seriously.
END QUOTE

Are you a fan of the comics, if not, I'm sure the costume does look a little silly, but understand that this is a film aimed at the fans of those comics and that much deviation from Spidey's costume in the comics would have put them off the film. Just look at the reaction to the Goblin suit and the organic web shooters.

QUOTE
I can't get into a CGI Sman,for that matter i'll watch Final Fantasy again,Aki probably has more personality than that abomination doubling as the web slinger.
END QUOTE

I felt that way for a long time, but think of it like this. Spider-Man does things that, no matter how good a stuntman you have, are simply not possible. To keep the characters abilities on a par with those in the comics (essential IMHO) you HAVE to use CGI.

QUOTE
Toby seems as if he's drinking pharmaceutical cocktails consisting of prozac,lithium,valium,and ritalin.
Dafoe is as pretentious and annoying as ever,i can't stand that grin,not at all menacing.
Dunce looks even more used out than in her previous effort(can't remember the name).Man,all she has is youth and a decent body,i feel sorry for her when she hits the big 25(old age in Holliswood),it's over babe.
END QUOTE

I'm not going to comment on performances until I've seen the film. It is impossible to make an educated judgement based on the footage so far available.

QUOTE
Give me soft for digging,to ease this migraine i have over the hype surroundng this derivative and extrememly average effort.
END QUOTE

I realise I'm repeating myself but how can you make this statement without seeing the film??

I'm not going out to attack you here but it seems like you just want to bash this film, had you had the oppurtunity to watch it and then EXPLAIN what you did not like about it your opinion would be utterly valid. As the film has not even come out you have no way to back up the kinds of sweeping statements you are making about it and the performances it features.

[This message has been edited by SAI (edited 04-24-2002).]

Shaddiz

04-24-2002, 03:49 PM

i just found out i have the opportunity(which im going to take, obviously) to see Spiderman tomorrow at a special screening! Man, i cant wait http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif i'll tell you all what i thought about it when i get back http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by Shaddiz (edited 04-24-2002).]

dellamorte dellamore

04-24-2002, 06:46 PM

In the future,i'll try not too bash a film i haven't seen yet,but from what i've seen so far,this one is not inspiring any confidence,for all the reasons i've already discussed.

One thing is for sure,i've never particularly liked any of Dafoe's films(except for Platoon),and i doubt this will change it.I know he is only one aspect of the whole,but he's a major part of the proceedings,it could potentially ruin whatever enjoyment i might experience.

You're right about the suit,it has to be,or should be,as close to the comic book as possible,and it is.Then again.look at Batman,Burton was'nt afraid to take a chance and alter the costume,and that one has just as loyal a following as Sman.I don't have to tell youhw that one worked out.I would have liked to see sme chances taken with the design.All i'm saying is that the outfit looks somewhat silly and dated,maybe it has something to do with blue and red tights.It's comedic,it does'nt look like something a superhero would wear.

And i take back what i said about that critic,it was childish and petty to take a cheap shot at someone i don't even know.I still don't see any reason to read a detailed review of a film before you have seen it,where's the surprise?

With some ingenuity,they probably could have used stuntmen in a majority of the action scenes,but CGI is safer and easier,but ultimately,for something such as this,less satisfying.

To Irene Manor,if you wat to see Dellamorte Dellamore,you can rent it under it's US release title,Cemetery Man.

Shaddiz

04-26-2002, 07:05 AM

Spider-Man (2002)

MPAA Rating: PG-13

Cast and Crew: Sam Raimi, Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, J.K Simmons

http://www.spiderman-lesite.com/images/zoom/03.jpg

I was expecting a lot with Spiderman and my expectations were surely met. In my mind this is one of the best(if not the best) Superhero-movie I have ever seen!

Sam Raimi's(who is most famous for his cult-splatter movie serie, "Evil Dead") direction is almost flawless. There is not a single dead-spot in the movie. Raimi also doesn't forget to include character development. The movie shows in a brilliant way how the geeky nerd Peter Parker changes to Spiderman. The first part of the movie(first 30-40 minutes or so) are really my favorite. I really like seeing the process of him(Parker) slowly discovering his powers and how he begins to use them. Willem Dafoe(Green Goblin) also plays a great villain. I always thought his costume looked a bit silly but Dafoe was so good that I really just tried to ignore it.

The acting was great. Tobey Maguire and Willem Dafoe stood up from the rest. Kirsten Dunst plays Mary Jane, the girl Peter Parker has been in love with ever since first grade. Other roles are smaller but are all believable and good.

Danny Elfman's music really is the only weak point of the film. It just isn't anything special. Doesn't change very much though.. you rarely notice it due to the movie being so fun.

Maybe you'll think that i'm some sort of a spidey fanboy that is overpraising it. Well, i'll tell you that i'm not. I dont own a single spiderman magazine, have only read a few comic books, and barely knew anything about the storyline before i saw the film.

I've seen a lot of people complain about the visual effects in the trailers. I agree, some of it looked like straight from a cartoon in the trailers but somehow it looked very different on the big screen I thought. Most of it looked good, some of it was flawless(for example the ending sequence… WOW!), some of it sucked(not very much though!) I encourage everybody to see this movie. I give it a good 9/10

P.S. Before you start criticizing me for my little review, please bear in mind that this is the first movie review I've ever written, and also that English is not my first language. In fact, it's my third after Icelandic and Danish http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif

Grade: 9/10

Movie Hunter

04-26-2002, 08:10 AM

Only one thing...The movie is not Released YET.. did u see it in a special Screening or what ???

http://swissinn.8m.com/images/bashaahaa_copy.gif

[This message has been edited by Movie Hunter (edited 04-26-2002).]

Shaddiz

04-26-2002, 08:30 AM

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Movie Hunter:
[B]Only one thing...The movie is not Released YET.. did u see it in a special Screening or what ???

http://swissinn.8m.com/images/bashaahaa.jpg

yes i did. scroll up a bit and you'll see this:

Posted by Shaddiz: i just found out i have the opportunity(which im going to take, obviously) to see Spiderman tomorrow at a special screening! Man, i cant wait i'll tell you all what i thought about it when i get back

oh, and by the way if anyone here has any questions about the movie feel free to ask, and i'll do my best to answer.

Also, i know this has nothing to do with Spiderman, but i'm going to see Star Wars: AOTC on May 6th! woohoo! http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif just wanted to brag about it hehhhehe

dh1989

04-26-2002, 04:09 PM

SPOILERS BELOW

I have a couple of questions about the film.

1. Was the World Unity festival as amazing as it looks? I have heard that it was edited poorly, but I don't think it looks that way from clips and trailer. What did you think?

2. How does it end? I have heard there is a epilouge where they have the newspaper editor screaming about "wanting Spider-Man" and a staff writer saying they found Peter Parker's pants and I have heard it ends in the cementary scene where peter turns down M.J. on her offer to date.

3. Is there a scene showing a huge robot at Quest Aerospace(Norman Osborn's comapnies manin competitor) that ends with The Green Goblin destroying the robot and killing the military dudes?

4. Were the wrestling scenes cool? Was Bone Saw itimidating?

5. Does it have the line where Aunt May tells Peter that "when he first saw Mary Jane Watson, he asked if she was an angel?"

6. Does it explain how Norman Osborn constructed his Goblin suit?

7. Was there a mirror scene where Norman talks with Goblin?

dh1989

04-26-2002, 04:11 PM

Originally posted by Shaddiz:
[QUOTE]Originally posted by Movie Hunter:
[B]
Also, i know this has nothing to do with Spiderman, but i'm going to see Star Wars: AOTC on May 6th! woohoo! http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif just wanted to brag about it hehhhehe

How are you getting in to all these screenings of big summer blockbsuters. is there one scheduled for MINORITY REPORT?

Shaddiz

04-26-2002, 08:02 PM

Originally posted by dh1989:
SPOILERS BELOW

I have a couple of questions about the film.

1. Was the World Unity festival as amazing as it looks? I have heard that it was edited poorly, but I don't think it looks that way from clips and trailer. What did you think?

2. How does it end? I have heard there is a epilouge where they have the newspaper editor screaming about "wanting Spider-Man" and a staff writer saying they found Peter Parker's pants and I have heard it ends in the cementary scene where peter turns down M.J. on her offer to date.

3. Is there a scene showing a huge robot at Quest Aerospace(Norman Osborn's comapnies manin competitor) that ends with The Green Goblin destroying the robot and killing the military dudes?

4. Were the wrestling scenes cool? Was Bone Saw itimidating?

5. Does it have the line where Aunt May tells Peter that "when he first saw Mary Jane Watson, he asked if she was an angel?"

6. Does it explain how Norman Osborn constructed his Goblin suit?

7. Was there a mirror scene where Norman talks with Goblin?

SPOILERS BELOW!

1) The world unity festival looked really good. That scene is one of the highlights of the film, and also the scene where we see Green Goblin for the first time. At first the crowd cheers as he appears but when he attacks by throwing one of his bombs people start to panic.
2) Ok. Spiderman has almost defeated Osborn, so Osborn starts to plead for his life to Spiderman until the Goblin within him comes into play, which makes the decision to activate his glider. He makes a spear pop out of the bottom of the glider, the wing lifts up without a sound so Spiderman doesn't notice. Osborn pushes a button and the glider starts moving very fast towards Parker in an attempt to kill him. Parker's spider-sense kicks in, he jumps out of the way just in time. The spear from the glider goes right through Osborns chest, blood drains down the wall and the glider. Osborn falls from being stapled to the wall for a few seconds. Harry Osborne returns home to find his dad in his bed with blood on the sheets. Harry turns to see Spiderman in the window and then yells "MURDERER!" The movie then ends(almost) in Norman Osborne's funeral. And yes, you are correct. That is where Parker turns down MJ's offer to become her boyfriend. Harry also has a little dialogue there where he expresses his hate for Spiderman to Parker. After that there is a short scene where we see Spiderman web-slinging/swinging/whatever in the city - that scene is simply breathtaking!
3) There was one scene that took place at Quest Aerospace but i dont think there was a robot in it.
4) The wrestling scene was kinda cool. Was Bone Saw itimidating? Well all i can say is that he did not look like the kind of guy i'd be willing to have a fight with myself http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif
5) Yes, that line is in.
6) No, unfortunately it doesn't. Goblin first appears flying around on his glider at the World unity festival.
7) Yes, there is a mirror scene where Norman talks with Goblin'

dh1989

04-26-2002, 10:43 PM

I told my friend that you answered my questions and he suckered me into asking you his three questions. I am so sorry for bothering you.

1. Was the opening sequence cool?

2. Does Peter Parker deliver a speach at the opening or does it start with him chasing the bus?

3. Does the one armed proffesor Curt Connors appear? Does he fire Parker from a college job?

Shaddiz

04-27-2002, 09:33 AM

Originally posted by dh1989:
I told my friend that you answered my questions and he suckered me into asking you his three questions. I am so sorry for bothering you.

1. Was the opening sequence cool?

2. Does Peter Parker deliver a speach at the opening or does it start with him chasing the bus?

3. Does the one armed proffesor Curt Connors appear? Does he fire Parker from a college job?

1) Cool? Well.. it starts with Parker delivering a speech and then it immediately cuts to him chasing the bus. I dont think you'll find anything cool about that, but it's nicely done(everything besides that terribly cheesy line "If somebody told you i was just your average ordinary guy, not a carer(sp?) in the world... Somebody lied!"
2) It starts with him giving an opening speech "If you thought i was just your average ordinary guy not a carer(sp?) in the world.. Somebody lied!" etc. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif
3) No he doesn't. I dont even know who that is http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif Parker tells Harry that he's been fired from some college job but doesn't even mention that Curt Connors.

dh1989

04-27-2002, 12:56 PM

Originally posted by Shaddiz:
1) Cool? Well.. it starts with Parker delivering a speech and then it immediately cuts to him chasing the bus. I dont think you'll find anything cool about that, but it's nicely done(everything besides that terribly cheesy line "If somebody told you i was just your average ordinary guy, not a carer(sp?) in the world... Somebody lied!"


I had heard there was an opening title sequence that shows all the names of cast and crew while flying through a web. My friend said he saw it over at AICN.

Shaddiz

04-27-2002, 02:34 PM

Originally posted by dh1989:
I had heard there was an opening title sequence that shows all the names of cast and crew while flying through a web. My friend said he saw it over at AICN.



oh.. yeah that is there. i thought you were talking about the opening sequence of the movie. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif after the "opening credits" as i prefer to call them, Parker delivers his speech and then it cuts to the bus scene.

Anyways, yeah i loved that! As you said, it shows the names of the cast and crew in a web(which Spiderman appears in occasionally) It's really hard to describe.. it ends with "Director: Sam Raimi" and then the movie starts.

LizardonEarth

04-28-2002, 04:03 AM

Yeah, Cant wait for it to come out! Was a devoted comic fan until stan lee stopped illustrating it. Tobey and Kirsten....this is an interesting match up.....

SAI

04-28-2002, 04:18 AM

Lizard, Stan Lee never drew Spider-Man, he wrote it for a long time. The artists he worked with included Steve Ditko (who drew Spidey's first appearence and the first 30 (or so) issues of Amazing Spider-Man) and the great John Romita Sr (my favourite Spidey artist)

dh1989

04-28-2002, 08:32 AM

Originally posted by Shaddiz:
after the "opening credits" as i prefer to call them,

When I saw typing I could touch my finger on the exact word. It was on the tip of my tongue. Sorry. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif

dh1989

04-28-2002, 08:42 AM

I am really mad about Sam Raimi deleting the Dr. Curt Connors/The Lizard scene from the film. I was looking forward to hunting for it. Then I read the SPIDER-MAN book and it had a scene where Parker is racing towards his job at a college science department and he has been late for the last time, so Dr. Connors fires him. But according to Shaddiz(If your name wrong, sorry) Raimi and crew deleted it. It would have been cool, but I guess we'll never see it or have to wait for DVD.

dh1989

04-29-2002, 08:37 AM

Did the post-production crew bring someone in to do a Goblin voice. I just watched the B-roll footage and the line where the Green Goblin says "I surrender.....Media violence made me do it" made me cringe. It was just horrible, but he sounded great in Norman Osborn's apartment when he said "there is only one who can stop us". I hope they brought in someone to make that first line a little more menacing.

dellamorte dellamore

04-29-2002, 08:56 AM

Regardless of what i've said in my previous posts,i'm going to see it Saturday,in Westbury were the old Drive In used to be.

I'm still disappointed in the casting choices,but it won't matter,this film and others like it are why i go to the movies.They're exciting,rousing,maybe even inspiring in a directorial and personal sense,and they take you away to a magical world for a few hours.

Plus,for guys,we get to live out our superhero fantasies,that omnipotent male deal i've talked about in the past.We'll forget who we are for a couple of hours and imagine ourselves as the all powerful web slinger,swinging freely through the cavernous,beautiful,and majestic Manhattan,without a care in the world except a psychotic madman with abandonment issues,the rent,and a hot(legal) babe with the body of a 13 year old.

Spiderman,Spiderman,does everything a Spider can.

Tobey got 4 mil(2.5 after taxes),for this role?I'm in the wrong line of work.I'll run around in tights for half that.Then again,the beer gut would be somewhat unseemly.

later

dh1989

04-29-2002, 01:35 PM

Do you think the family of the construction worker killed on the set will see this movie. I think I remember hearing an interview somewhere that they said they would, but that might have been the family of the stuntman who died while shotting xXx. If I were in that familty I jsut don't think I could. Say he was killed making a balcony or something, I would just get very sad when you see the set they died building. I don't think I could handle it.

Benny

04-29-2002, 09:44 PM

Whoa I am so psyched for this movie now! I'm hoping it starts my summer off with a bang when I see it. And Kirsten Dunst is hot!

dh1989

04-29-2002, 09:45 PM

Originally posted by Benny:
And Kirsten Dunst is hot!

AMEN!!!!!!!!!

I think Kirsten is the next great actress. She has prover herself from the child years(Interview with a Vampire and Jumanji) all the way to her twenties(The Cat's Meow and The Virgin Suicides). She is the best actress in a while. Watch out Hollywood.

[This message has been edited by dh1989 (edited 04-29-2002).]

The Other

05-01-2002, 02:07 AM

JoBlo's review is up here (http://www.joblo.com/spiderman.htm) and it's a great one. He gave it an 8/10. Which is really great.

I would have probably loved the film even if he'd given it a 1/10 or something. But, I'll love it for sure when I see on like Saturday or Sunday.

Eliar Swiftfire

05-01-2002, 01:23 PM

Just saw the film. (It premiered in Malaysia on the 1st of May) Great film. Better than X-Men, in my opinion.

Better than the last two Batman films too. Hmm...

Pretty bothered by the Spiderman bashing here.

dh1989

05-01-2002, 05:39 PM

You guys should watch the HBO First Look Special. It has got some great interviews, clips, and behind the scenes footage. The scene in the cafeteria with the webbing looks hilarious.

ColinM

05-01-2002, 08:43 PM

Man, only two more days. I can't wait! I've already got plans to see it twice this weekend (two different crowds).

Americana

05-02-2002, 12:30 AM

Yeah baby, two days away. I can't wait for Friday to come because I have been waiting almost a decade for them to make a decent movie about Spidey. Hopefully I can see it not just on Friday but again on Saturday with some friends of mine, but the showing they are going to is already sold out... Damn it! http://www.joblo.com/ubb/frown.gif

http://www.thetoyroom-redux.com/Spidey_parapet1.jpg

idealdiscountdude

05-03-2002, 08:29 AM

Bump!

Scorchlord

05-03-2002, 09:09 AM

Great, great, GREAT movie. Rarely have I enjoyed myself as much as I did during Spider-man. Oh, and here's a snippet of why Ebert didn't like it:

"Remember the first time you saw the characters defy gravity in "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon"? They transcended gravity, but they didn't dismiss it: They seemed to possess weight, dimension and presence. Spider-Man as he leaps across the rooftops is landing too lightly, rebounding too much like a bouncing ball. He looks like a video game figure, not like a person having an amazing experience. "

Further proof that Ebert has his head up his ass. He doesn't sit back and enjoy a movie for what it is, a popcorn adventuree. And frankly, that CTHD flying people looked stupid as well. Weight and presence? They were gliding through the air like they were on a wire. Please.

inglourious basterd

05-03-2002, 09:58 AM

Originally posted by Scorchlord:

...Further proof that Ebert has his head up his ass. He doesn't sit back and enjoy a movie for what it is, a popcorn adventuree. And frankly, that CTHD flying people looked stupid as well. Weight and presence? They were gliding through the air like they were on a wire. Please.

Actually the main reason he didnt like it was this:

I have one question about the Peter Parker character: Does the movie go too far with his extreme social paralysis? Peter tells Mary Jane he just wants to be friends. "Only a friend?" she repeats. "That's all I have to give," he says. How so? Impotent? Spidey-sense has skewed his sexual instincts? Afraid his hands will get stuck?

To me, it seemed like Ebert questioned the overall "message" of the film. I havent seen it, so I cannot confirm or refute his statement, but aren't over-romanticism and character-cliches frequent occurences in Hollywood?

What is also funny is that the quote you pointed out is similar to something that even JoBlo mentioned in his review (only elaborated to a lesser extent).

Also, Ebert's grade of 2.5 stars is similar to a 6/10 from JoBlo. It is the also the same grade he gave to the Scorpion King. It is for that reason that I just wanted to point out that Ebert did not really view this movie with condescending malice. Therefore, I disagree with the fact that he consistently has his head in his ass.

Either way, I am looking forward to seeing this film. The overall buzz seems to be positive.

[This message has been edited by psudoazn (edited 05-03-2002).]

gyro_44

05-03-2002, 11:45 AM

I'm wondering why it always comes back to Ebert's reviews... the fact that he didn't quite recommend it shouldn't be the news story of the day. He gave the same rating to "X-Men", if you recall. No need to bash the man, or "Crouching Tiger" for that matter.

I've bought my tickets and I'm seeing the show at 1:20 this afternoon. Ebert aside, reviews have been overwhelmingly positive. I'm psyched! http://www.joblo.com/ubb/smile.gif

Aztec

05-03-2002, 02:39 PM

I saw it at 10am this morning and it is worth your dough. Tobey pulls it off as the shy nerd that adapts to his super powers. The story is well done and molds itself perfectly to the next movie to come. The conflicted super hero to the max.

** mini spoiler **

I loved it when I saw Randy "Macho-Man" Savage in a quick but fun role. But why do we have Macy Grey in it? We couldn't come up with a better act than that one hit wonder?

Going to see it again http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif

9/10

Aztec

dellamorte dellamore

05-03-2002, 02:42 PM

What a letdown,what aletdown.I gave it achance,but it was the rare instance when a film was even worse than i thought it would be.

It fails on almost every level.Acting,script,dialogue,casting,set design,lighting,cinematography,directing.Maguire,a lthough talented,plays the same character he has done in Wonder Boys and Ice Storm,i thought he was sleep walking the whole time.The whole romance felt totally false,i never had the feeling that Dunst was falling for him.I know googly eyes are supposed to be a sign a character is falling in love with someone,but there was no chemistry there whatsoever.Heck,i thought his friend had more chemistry with MJ than he did.

Lighting.Who lit this picture,and why did Raimi go along with it.There is nothing to distinguish this from some late eighties action film,they should have called Argento or Shumacker to show them how it's done.

Set design.Plain,stale,uninspired.They spent 100 mil on this,and it looks like sets from a high school play.Allright not that bad,but damn close.

Cinematography.Terrible,just terrible.A couple of nice shots of Sman swinging around Manhattan,but other than that standard issue,i went to film school,this is how you block a shot stuff.Nothing at all about it stands out.Again looks like it was made in the 80's.

Script.Just some spare parts from Batman,Spawn,Superman,and a couple of others i can't think of now.

Dialogue.Everyone says and does exactly what you expect them to say and do.No surprises,no chances taken,no depth,and the attempts at humor fall flat.You may get a couple of giggles,but that's it.

Acting.Some of the worst of the year.Cliched,corny(i knew it would be),groan inducing,stereotypical.I felt myself squirming in my seat at some of the lines of dialogue the performers were spouting.I felt embarrased for them at times.Dunst was servicable,nothing special,nothing out of the ordinary,could have been easily replaced with any other young looking Hwood actress.She does look the part,yeah,because she is close to that age anyway.I found myself wanting her to just disappear,and for them to focus more on the action.Dafoe was one of the most boring,unconvincing,and annoying villians in quite some time,miscast by a long shot.The rest of the cast are non descript,you will forget about them not long after.

Directing.Raimi has done his best Tim Burton/Shumacker imitation,and has failed miserably.But i guess if you are going to hack someone's work,it should at least be a hack of their best.Sorry Raimi,you did'nt even come close,Batman is still the King of the cinematic "superheroes".

Music.Elfman seems to have sampled all his other previous work,especially(i know you hate this)Batman.There is also some Nightmare before Christmas, and Planet of the Apes(the opening sequence seems to have taken it's cue from that film).

The opening is not as exciting as some would have you believe.If i had;nt seen better,it probably would have been cool,but Lord of the Rings,all 3 Batman films,Resident Evil,Starship Troopers,Night of the Living Dead 90,and a couple of others,were extremely effective in capturing my attention and setting an intriguing tone with their respective openings.Sman's just did'nt do anything for me.Credits on a web,sorry,boring.To be fair,i did like the fact that they paid homage to the comic book by showing a couple of pages from it in the beginning of the opening sequence.

Allright,the action was somewhat entertaining,but did'nt leave me breathless or anything,or wanting to see it again.It gives you a little rush,barely,and then you count down the days until you can watch Batman again,or LOTR,two truly inspired films,that you never forget.At least i don't.

Should have went with Cameron,but what do they care about quality,it's Sman,even Bruno Mattei could have directed this and it still would have made tons of money.I see a huge dropoff the second weekend,when the dirty little secret is let out,the films is average at best.

Can't believe i'm saying this,but i can't wait for Clone Wars.

Don't say i did'nt warn you.

Dunch

05-03-2002, 05:24 PM

The thing I hate about this place is that there are way too many people that should just go to moviepoopshoot.com... THIS MOVIE WAS SO FUCKING AWESOME!!!!!!!!

OH MY LORD, I LOVED THIS MOVIE SO MUCH! I Laughed, Cried, and got my Spidey. Fuck the bashers of this movie, go watch a beautiful fucking mind and stick flaming dongs up your ass!

9/10

thompsoncory

05-03-2002, 05:29 PM

This is one of the best movies of the year! I just saw it a couple of hours ago and it was fabulous. It is definetely my favorite of the year so far. Everyone must see this movie! It's the greatest!!!!!!

The acting is really good, and Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst have great chemistry. The special effects are awesome and it also has a great story. What else could you want in a movie?

10/10

[This message has been edited by thompsoncory (edited 05-04-2002).]

Silverload

05-03-2002, 06:30 PM

This movie was fantastic! I loved every minute of it. It took me back to the old Tim Burton Batman days (before Joel Schumacher screwed it up.) It captures the comic to near perfection. To me this is the best comic movie ever, just over X-Men do to the fact I found it more entertaining.

Tobey Maguire is perfect as Peter Parker/Spider-Man. And Willem Dafoe makes a great Goblin, if you don’t let the suit bother you. To be truthful I didn’t even think twice about the Goblin suit, it was sort of odd at first but I became use to it. Despite if you like the suit or not Dafoe plays the part very good.

The graphics in this are awesome as well, there were a few moments when the CGI became noticeable but nothing to ruin the movie. The action was also very good. I was afraid Sam Raimi was going to follow most the other action movies and have the hero doing kung fu. But he didn’t (Thank God), it was just like the kind of action you would see in the comic.

Danny Elfman does a great job with the music, as always. He is the best composer for these kind of movies, right up there with John Williams.

This movie was fun as hell and it took itself serious and never became corny. Spider-Man truly lives up to the hype. I am going to see it again tomorrow

Spider-Man 10/10

Another reason to see Spider-Man is to see the teaser to The Hulk before the movie. All you get to see is The Hulk’s eye, and the CGI looks awesome.

[This message has been edited by Silverload (edited 05-03-2002).]

Sheepshaver127

05-03-2002, 07:48 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
What a letdown,what aletdown.I gave it achance,but it was the rare instance when a film was even worse than i thought it would be.

It fails on almost every level.Acting,script,dialogue,casting,set design,lighting,cinematography,directing.Maguire,a lthough talented,plays the same character he has done in Wonder Boys and Ice Storm,i thought he was sleep walking the whole time.The whole romance felt totally false,i never had the feeling that Dunst was falling for him.I know googly eyes are supposed to be a sign a character is falling in love with someone,but there was no chemistry there whatsoever.Heck,i thought his friend had more chemistry with MJ than he did.

Lighting.Who lit this picture,and why did Raimi go along with it.There is nothing to distinguish this from some late eighties action film,they should have called Argento or Shumacker to show them how it's done.

Set design.Plain,stale,uninspired.They spent 100 mil on this,and it looks like sets from a high school play.Allright not that bad,but damn close.

Cinematography.Terrible,just terrible.A couple of nice shots of Sman swinging around Manhattan,but other than that standard issue,i went to film school,this is how you block a shot stuff.Nothing at all about it stands out.Again looks like it was made in the 80's.

Script.Just some spare parts from Batman,Spawn,Superman,and a couple of others i can't think of now.

Dialogue.Everyone says and does exactly what you expect them to say and do.No surprises,no chances taken,no depth,and the attempts at humor fall flat.You may get a couple of giggles,but that's it.

Acting.Some of the worst of the year.Cliched,corny(i knew it would be),groan inducing,stereotypical.I felt myself squirming in my seat at some of the lines of dialogue the performers were spouting.I felt embarrased for them at times.Dunst was servicable,nothing special,nothing out of the ordinary,could have been easily replaced with any other young looking Hwood actress.She does look the part,yeah,because she is close to that age anyway.I found myself wanting her to just disappear,and for them to focus more on the action.Dafoe was one of the most boring,unconvincing,and annoying villians in quite some time,miscast by a long shot.The rest of the cast are non descript,you will forget about them not long after.

Directing.Raimi has done his best Tim Burton/Shumacker imitation,and has failed miserably.But i guess if you are going to hack someone's work,it should at least be a hack of their best.Sorry Raimi,you did'nt even come close,Batman is still the King of the cinematic "superheroes".

Music.Elfman seems to have sampled all his other previous work,especially(i know you hate this)Batman.There is also some Nightmare before Christmas, and Planet of the Apes(the opening sequence seems to have taken it's cue from that film).

The opening is not as exciting as some would have you believe.If i had;nt seen better,it probably would have been cool,but Lord of the Rings,all 3 Batman films,Resident Evil,Starship Troopers,Night of the Living Dead 90,and a couple of others,were extremely effective in capturing my attention and setting an intriguing tone with their respective openings.Sman's just did'nt do anything for me.Credits on a web,sorry,boring.To be fair,i did like the fact that they paid homage to the comic book by showing a couple of pages from it in the beginning of the opening sequence.

Allright,the action was somewhat entertaining,but did'nt leave me breathless or anything,or wanting to see it again.It gives you a little rush,barely,and then you count down the days until you can watch Batman again,or LOTR,two truly inspired films,that you never forget.At least i don't.

Should have went with Cameron,but what do they care about quality,it's Sman,even Bruno Mattei could have directed this and it still would have made tons of money.I see a huge dropoff the second weekend,when the dirty little secret is let out,the films is average at best.

Can't believe i'm saying this,but i can't wait for Clone Wars.

Don't say i did'nt warn you.



First off, this movie was great!! It easily surpasses the original Batman. Everything in this movie was dead on especially the direction. (Good job Sam) Now that I've got that out of the way here's my reply: Did you watch this movie with your head up your ass Dellmore? You seem intent on bashing Spider-man for some reason. The movie you described above was not the same one I just saw. So for anybody that might read this don't pay any attention to the pile of crap that Dellamore wrote. Even people that don't like the movie won't agree with that garbage.

dellamorte dellamore

05-03-2002, 08:56 PM

Maybe inferior,cliched,hacked to hell films are what the mainstream public wants,because that's what this is.If you liked it great,but for 100 million(where did the budget go),i was expecting way more.

A disappointment unmatched by any other "Big Budget" summer movie in some time(save for Final Fantasy).

Really,what has to said some people are easy to please,very easy to please,if this thread is any indication,so something this inane can excite them.

It's that summer movie thing,the event picture,the hype wills you to like it,you feel you have to,but let everything settle down,and some of you shmoes will realize,wait a minute,this really did blow.

I was right,this is a rental,should have f....d the Aol/Time Warner hype and waited for the dvd.

This is what passes for entertainment these days,man it's going to be a long summer,with rgards to so called blockbusters.

Garbage,all the way around.

movieDUDE68686

05-03-2002, 09:49 PM

Oh my god! this movie was awesome!
this might just be the best suprise in years!
grade: A
wonderful acting, visual effects, story, and music...go see it right now!

tarch

05-03-2002, 10:00 PM

I'm interested in what dellamore considers to be good film making. What movies are good to you.

dh1989

05-03-2002, 10:03 PM

SPOILERS

Review: Spider-Man

Starring Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, Kirsten Dunst, Rosemary Harris, J.K. Simmons, and James Franco

Rating: 10/10

This is my favorite film of ALL time! I know it is probably becasue I have been reading the comics as far back as I can remember. This film took all my extreme and unreasonable expectations and delivered triple them. I was breathless as the end credits started to roll. I had just seen the perfect comic/adventure film. Sam Raimi(Evil Dead films) did a great job. Every shot of this film is eye candy. The visuals keep your eyes glued and the wonderful sound effects and well written dialouge(great job David Koepp) keeps your ears wide open. Some of my favorite visuals in the film were the dodging of the blades in the burning building, the floating jet at Quest Aerospace, the shots of Spidey swinging around NYC, the first spidey sense moment, and tons more. The visuals and sound were pushed by a great cast. Tobey Maguire(Wonder Boys) did an increible job. He perfectly pulled of the geekiness, vulnerability, and slight confidence of Peter Parker. His work as Spider-Man(when he was not CGI) was great. He really suprised me with his fighting skills. Willem Dafoe was wonderfully wicked. His transformation into a dual personality was amazing. The infamous "mirrior" scene was incredible. I totally bought his insanity. As for the Green Goblin, he had a majorly cool suit and he was one of the more scary villians in recent memory. Kirsten Dunst was great. I have always thought she was a talented actress and this jsut reinforces that. She was believable and never annoying. I felt sad for her at the end. James Franco did a good job and he will be even better next time(see the ending to understand). J.K. Simmons was a stand out. He chewed up scenery and his cigars at the sam time. the aunt an duncle did good jobs. They were lovable. The wrestling scenes were fun. My favorite fight sequence was the World Unity Festival. It was amazing. SPIDER-MAN is a great film. I can't wait till tommorow to see it again.

P.S. Stay until the end. They play the ORIGINAL "Spider-Man, Spider-Man" song. It was very cool.

jackson13

05-03-2002, 10:42 PM

I saw the 4:15 show today and it was definitly worth it. Spidey kicked ass!!! The best thing is I only paid 3 dollars to see it cuz it was a matinee showing.

Dark Minister

05-03-2002, 10:56 PM

"bring in Shumacher and show them how to do it right."- Do what right? Totally fuck up a movie and destroy a franchise like he did with Batman? tee hee Shumacher tee hee...ahem, this movie FUCKING RULED!!!! It was wonderful! There was hardly anything negative about it! It was excellent!!! SPIDEY RULES!!!!

Silverload

05-03-2002, 11:09 PM

Originally posted by tarch:
I'm interested in what dellamore considers to be good film making. What movies are good to you.

I don’t know but he likes Schumacher’s version of Batman so that should show you a little of his taste.

Schumacher ruined Batman and pissed off millions of fans.

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
It's that summer movie thing,the event picture,the hype wills you to like it,you feel you have to,but let everything settle down,and some of you shmoes will realize,wait a minute,this really did blow. 

I am sorry you think that, but everyone is not mindless morons that like what they are told. But you downed this movie before you even seen it and everyone knew you would trash this movie once you seen it regardless if it was good or bad. I for one know when a move blows and this movie most certainly did not blow, it was great.

[This message has been edited by Silverload (edited 05-03-2002).]

Fergus

05-04-2002, 01:27 AM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
What a letdown,what aletdown.I gave it achance,but it was the rare instance when a film was even worse than i thought it would be.

It fails on almost every level.Acting,script,dialogue,casting,set design,lighting,cinematography,directing.Maguire,a lthough talented,plays the same character he has done in Wonder Boys and Ice Storm,i thought he was sleep walking the whole time.The whole romance felt totally false,i never had the feeling that Dunst was falling for him.I know googly eyes are supposed to be a sign a character is falling in love with someone,but there was no chemistry there whatsoever.Heck,i thought his friend had more chemistry with MJ than he did.

Lighting.Who lit this picture,and why did Raimi go along with it.There is nothing to distinguish this from some late eighties action film,they should have called Argento or Shumacker to show them how it's done.

Set design.Plain,stale,uninspired.They spent 100 mil on this,and it looks like sets from a high school play.Allright not that bad,but damn close.

Cinematography.Terrible,just terrible.A couple of nice shots of Sman swinging around Manhattan,but other than that standard issue,i went to film school,this is how you block a shot stuff.Nothing at all about it stands out.Again looks like it was made in the 80's.

Script.Just some spare parts from Batman,Spawn,Superman,and a couple of others i can't think of now.

Dialogue.Everyone says and does exactly what you expect them to say and do.No surprises,no chances taken,no depth,and the attempts at humor fall flat.You may get a couple of giggles,but that's it.

Acting.Some of the worst of the year.Cliched,corny(i knew it would be),groan inducing,stereotypical.I felt myself squirming in my seat at some of the lines of dialogue the performers were spouting.I felt embarrased for them at times.Dunst was servicable,nothing special,nothing out of the ordinary,could have been easily replaced with any other young looking Hwood actress.She does look the part,yeah,because she is close to that age anyway.I found myself wanting her to just disappear,and for them to focus more on the action.Dafoe was one of the most boring,unconvincing,and annoying villians in quite some time,miscast by a long shot.The rest of the cast are non descript,you will forget about them not long after.

Directing.Raimi has done his best Tim Burton/Shumacker imitation,and has failed miserably.But i guess if you are going to hack someone's work,it should at least be a hack of their best.Sorry Raimi,you did'nt even come close,Batman is still the King of the cinematic "superheroes".

Music.Elfman seems to have sampled all his other previous work,especially(i know you hate this)Batman.There is also some Nightmare before Christmas, and Planet of the Apes(the opening sequence seems to have taken it's cue from that film).

The opening is not as exciting as some would have you believe.If i had;nt seen better,it probably would have been cool,but Lord of the Rings,all 3 Batman films,Resident Evil,Starship Troopers,Night of the Living Dead 90,and a couple of others,were extremely effective in capturing my attention and setting an intriguing tone with their respective openings.Sman's just did'nt do anything for me.Credits on a web,sorry,boring.To be fair,i did like the fact that they paid homage to the comic book by showing a couple of pages from it in the beginning of the opening sequence.

Allright,the action was somewhat entertaining,but did'nt leave me breathless or anything,or wanting to see it again.It gives you a little rush,barely,and then you count down the days until you can watch Batman again,or LOTR,two truly inspired films,that you never forget.At least i don't.

Should have went with Cameron,but what do they care about quality,it's Sman,even Bruno Mattei could have directed this and it still would have made tons of money.I see a huge dropoff the second weekend,when the dirty little secret is let out,the films is average at best.

Can't believe i'm saying this,but i can't wait for Clone Wars.

Don't say i did'nt warn you.



It has been awhile since I actually agreed with someone on almost every point. By the time it ended, I was in a rage. One of the most disappointing cinematic experiences in a long time. It started out allright, the opening credits weren't that bad. However, little sections with Spidey moving his way through the building was good. I have barely anything at all to rant about the CGI, mostly because he was moving so fast, you couldn't focus on one shot and say "THAT WAS FAKE!", only when he first learned his powers, was it really apparent. The pace of the film was all over the place. It would speed up, then slow wayyy down. The great Sam Raimi is nowhere to be seen. Raimi's direction is a big disappointment. There were scarce moments where he resorted to creativity. There is one shot though, that is totally taken from a comic book that I loved.

SPOILERS*****

When the Green Goblin releases MJ on the bridge in the end, it shows Spidey crouching, and in one of his eyes, you see the reflection of MJ falling down. A great comic book moment, but sadly, the only really good one.

The final fight scene is well edited, between Spidey and the GG, but then it cops out and resorts to an utterly predictable outcome, and a short line of dialogue is added right before the blades stab Dafoe; totally idiotic and cliched.

END SPOILERS*****

I can't tell you how disappointed I am with this movie. I kept thinking to myself, "you should've worked on the script Raimi, should've worked on the script." Ever since Snake Eyes, I have doubted Koepp to write a good script, and that was my only doubt... then, of course, I saw the movie.

Right now, until I finally decide, my stand on the film is *** out of five stars, though it will probably lower as the days pass... now I have to watch a good movie to make up for it.

[This message has been edited by Fergus (edited 05-04-2002).]

Americana

05-04-2002, 06:17 AM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
What a letdown,what aletdown.I gave it achance,but it was the rare instance when a film was even worse than i thought it would be.

It fails on almost every level.Acting,script,dialogue,casting,set design,lighting,cinematography,directing.Maguire,a lthough talented,plays the same character he has done in Wonder Boys and Ice Storm,i thought he was sleep walking the whole time.The whole romance felt totally false,i never had the feeling that Dunst was falling for him.I know googly eyes are supposed to be a sign a character is falling in love with someone,but there was no chemistry there whatsoever.Heck,i thought his friend had more chemistry with MJ than he did.

Lighting.Who lit this picture,and why did Raimi go along with it.There is nothing to distinguish this from some late eighties action film,they should have called Argento or Shumacker to show them how it's done.

Set design.Plain,stale,uninspired.They spent 100 mil on this,and it looks like sets from a high school play.Allright not that bad,but damn close.

Cinematography.Terrible,just terrible.A couple of nice shots of Sman swinging around Manhattan,but other than that standard issue,i went to film school,this is how you block a shot stuff.Nothing at all about it stands out.Again looks like it was made in the 80's.

Script.Just some spare parts from Batman,Spawn,Superman,and a couple of others i can't think of now.

Dialogue.Everyone says and does exactly what you expect them to say and do.No surprises,no chances taken,no depth,and the attempts at humor fall flat.You may get a couple of giggles,but that's it.

Acting.Some of the worst of the year.Cliched,corny(i knew it would be),groan inducing,stereotypical.I felt myself squirming in my seat at some of the lines of dialogue the performers were spouting.I felt embarrased for them at times.Dunst was servicable,nothing special,nothing out of the ordinary,could have been easily replaced with any other young looking Hwood actress.She does look the part,yeah,because she is close to that age anyway.I found myself wanting her to just disappear,and for them to focus more on the action.Dafoe was one of the most boring,unconvincing,and annoying villians in quite some time,miscast by a long shot.The rest of the cast are non descript,you will forget about them not long after.

Directing.Raimi has done his best Tim Burton/Shumacker imitation,and has failed miserably.But i guess if you are going to hack someone's work,it should at least be a hack of their best.Sorry Raimi,you did'nt even come close,Batman is still the King of the cinematic "superheroes".

Music.Elfman seems to have sampled all his other previous work,especially(i know you hate this)Batman.There is also some Nightmare before Christmas, and Planet of the Apes(the opening sequence seems to have taken it's cue from that film).

The opening is not as exciting as some would have you believe.If i had;nt seen better,it probably would have been cool,but Lord of the Rings,all 3 Batman films,Resident Evil,Starship Troopers,Night of the Living Dead 90,and a couple of others,were extremely effective in capturing my attention and setting an intriguing tone with their respective openings.Sman's just did'nt do anything for me.Credits on a web,sorry,boring.To be fair,i did like the fact that they paid homage to the comic book by showing a couple of pages from it in the beginning of the opening sequence.

Allright,the action was somewhat entertaining,but did'nt leave me breathless or anything,or wanting to see it again.It gives you a little rush,barely,and then you count down the days until you can watch Batman again,or LOTR,two truly inspired films,that you never forget.At least i don't.

Should have went with Cameron,but what do they care about quality,it's Sman,even Bruno Mattei could have directed this and it still would have made tons of money.I see a huge dropoff the second weekend,when the dirty little secret is let out,the films is average at best.

Can't believe i'm saying this,but i can't wait for Clone Wars.

Don't say i did'nt warn you.



Talk about not knowing your movies. This was by far the best movies I've seen yet, and I'm not talking about just this year. Spider-man was just amazing in every way I wanted it to be.

The action scenes were just beautfully done and the characters couldn't have had more better actors/actresses to play them. ****

The story was far more interesting then I thought it would be. ****

The Green Goblin Suit was amazing and out of this world at the same time. I really wanted the old looking G suit but now that I saw this one in action, I understand why they went with it instead. ****

Well I'm sticking to my guns when I said Fuck Ebert in his ugly old ass for saying, and I quote: Tobey Maguire is pitch-perfect as the Socially Retarded Peter Parker, but when he become Spider-man the film turns to action sequences that zip along like perfunctory cartoons. I have no respect for this guy, and I won't ever have respect for him if he keeps writing his reviews like this. I swear if he says one bad thing about Attack of the Clones I will find him and rip his cock off and shove it up his ass my self.

dellamorte dellamore

05-04-2002, 07:20 AM

I really think my expectations have been forever raised with the advent of LOTR.And this is one of the reasons i consider Sman a standard,sometimes a bit above average effort,that will give you what you want one time around,but you will feel like something was missing.

I know it's not fair to compare those 2 films,but if you are going to rely on CGI,let's face it,the script is on a 90210 level,then you best blow people away with those visuals.Look at the color saturation in almost every scene of LOTR compared to that of Sman,it was immaculate,and they both cost almost the same amount to make.

LOTR has a very specific,unique look,and visual sense,and i'm not talking about the action scenes,but the "dramatic moments between characters.

That set of the GG lab looked faked,the one in Hollow Man was more effective,that's what i thought i was watching when he was gassed in that chamber.

Honestly,i thought Spawn's (even i was bored by that film)visuals were of a higher quality than this,maybe nt every scene,but a good number of them.

There's so much more,but i'm just about out of time for now.I'll leave you with this,fans of the comic will probably swear by this,you can't admit to yourself that Raimi just put together a by the numbers formula movie,unremarkable,whose visuals,for the most part seem curiously dated.If it did'nt have the Sman label attached to it,and a huge marketing blitz,i doubt anyone would be this excited.

Just give it some time,i think some of you will see you've been duped.

the saw is family

05-04-2002, 09:01 AM

well i went and saw the second showing of spiderman yesterday morning,an di pretty much liked it. i'm not one for big hollywood blockbusters but this one worked for me. i thought the leads were great(tobey maguire is becoming an actor i really like) the scened with j.jonah jameson were terrifiic he looked just like he does in the comic book. the story was so-so but i didn't expect much scriptwise due to the fact it was written by david koepp who wrote the absolutely horrid script to panic room. as for the cgi some did look fake but thats to be expected cgi in my opinion will always look fake in some form or another. as for the complaint about the sets looking cheap i expected them to look like that because it's a comic book film i think it goes more along with the feel of the comic. overall not a perfect movie but definetly some fun summer fare.

spiderman-8.5/10

Irene Manor

05-04-2002, 09:43 AM

I saw the 9:20 showing last night and had a great time.

I'll just break down some things around this movie instead of arguing why I like it.

- I was outside the theater with my friends. We were waiting for some people to use the bathroom. While we are waiting, we hear people screaming. Here comes kids in a mini-van, and a 13 - 15 year old kid hanging on to the roof (LIKE SPIDERMAN!). The van pulled out of the parking lot and got on the side road running along the theater. The van looked like it got up to about 45MPH, then a cop pulled them over. I was like, "Wow, that kid REALLY liked that movie." I felt sick because part of me wanted to see him get tossed of the mini-van.

- How the hell can Ebert ask if Spidey was impotent? He obviously missed the point that Parker did n't want to love Mary Jane because all of the people he loves dies. I thought this ending was very unpredictable, so I don't know what Ebert was talking about there either.

- Do you all think that "You mess with one of us you mess with all of us" line was put in post-9/11?

BitchTits

05-04-2002, 10:15 AM

I saw the movie last night. Wasn't as good as I thought it would be, but I enjoyed it overall. I appreciate story and character development, because every movie needs that, but the movie could have used a LITTLE bit more action scenes to make it more entertaining.

Still, it was pretty good, and everybody clapped at the end. I didn't think it was as good as X-Men though.

7/10

Silverload

05-04-2002, 10:39 AM

Thank you Dellamorte Dellamore, for a moment there I almost enjoyed Spider-Man *end sarcasm *
Well I now know never listen to dellamorte dellamore and Fergus reviews anymore. Nothing they said was accurate. I swear they just pulled stuff out of the sky just to bad mouth this movie. And saying that Shumacker can show Raimi how to direct a movie is down right laughable.

[This message has been edited by Silverload (edited 05-04-2002).]

Irene Manor

05-04-2002, 11:29 AM

bskutle

05-04-2002, 11:32 AM

During the summer movie season, big-budget escapism is a dime a dozen; generally, for every good popcorn flick, there's one that's not-so-good, and exemplary escapism usually comes along one every few years (more frequently if you're lucky).

This year's four-month festival of low-brow mayhem, CG-generated madness, and bloated monetary excess begins this weekend with the highly-anticipated big screen debut of the popular Marvel Comics wall crawler "Spider-Man" (created by Stan Lee- who briefly appears in an action sequence- and Steve Ditko). How hotly anticipated is the flick? When I got to the theatre at 5:30 for a 7pm show last night, every show up until 8pm- and, not to long after, 10pm- was sold out, inspiring me to want to buy my tickets for today as soon as I got home (last night was about seeing it with friends; today, my mother gets her first glimpse of the S-man).

The quote in the title is Spider-Man/Peter Parker's mantra- first said by his uncle Ben (movingly played by Cliff Robertson; no slouchers in this cast)- throughout the flick, but replace "power" with "financial backing" and that slogan could easily refer to "Spider-Man" director Sam Raimi. Raimi's a self-proclaimed Spidey fan who happens to be a popular cult director. Though his recent efforts hail more from the realm of mature studio pictures (1995's Sharon Stone-starring Western "The Quick and the Dead," 1998's terrific corrupt soul thriller "A Simple Plan," the Kevin Costner baseball melodrama "For Love of the Game," and 2000's moody Southern Goth "The Gift"- a personal fave of mine), it's Raimi's disreputably oddball early films that he's best known for, and make him an inspired choice to direct this flick. These works include 1990's striking "Darkman," a pure comic book flick- starring Liam Neeson and Frances McDormond (Raimi's buds with the Coen Brothers; Mrs. McDormond is married to Joel Coen)- that wasn't even based on a comic book, and- most notably- his ultra-low-budget "Evil Dead" trilogy with hammy on-screen alter ego Bruce Campbell (who makes a cameo here as a wrestling announcer in a sharp early scene). That trilogy- which consists of 1982's "The Evil Dead," 1987's "Evil Dead II: Dead By Dawn," and 1993's "Army of Darkness"- will turn off many by its satanic sounding title and go-for-broke gruesomeness, but trust me, it's much funnier than that. Whaa?! Yes, you read right. In fact, the middle chapter- "Evil Dead II" (which has long been debated over whether it's a "sequel" or a "remake")- is arguably the definitive combo of gore and guffaws ever made, with the horror going so over-the-top it transcends scary and just becomes uncontrollably funny. I dare you not to laugh at the wicked slapstick of Campbell's Ash getting his butt kicked by his possessed hand, the hilarity of watching Ash get drenched by gallons of multi-colored blood flows, or the gruesome rib-tickling of seeing Ash get chased by the unseen force, an effect achieved by director Raimi operating the camera while riding a motorcycle.

What the heck does this have to do with "Spider-Man?" Well, if you get an idea of what Raimi sharpened his teeth on in the early days (his style in these films inspired the Coens and Peter "Lord of the Rings" Jackson), you see how smart it was for Sony- the producers of "Spider-Man"- to entrust the potential franchise- a sequel's already on tap- in his hands. Those zooming camera shots in the first two "Evil Dead" films are the low-tech precursors to the stylish CG swooping shots of Spidey getting around in Manhattan, and those wildly macabre scenes of cartoonish violence are bound to inspire some slickly-mounted- and slyly imagined- action sequences when Spider-Man faces off with the Green Goblin. Plus, what's "Darkman" but a modest "prequel"- and a damn fine one at that- to the sort of psychological melodrama, exaggerated camera angles, sly camera moves, and over-the-top violence that is required by a "Spider-Man?"

What was Raimi's responsibility in directing "Spider-Man" (to digress a bit to the forementioned quote)? To make a comic book flick that was faithful to the source material and story (that of Peter Parker's origins as Spider-Man) so as not to distress fans, but to make a movie even the Spidey novice (of which I am one) could enjoy, and add to their DVD collection.

Mission accomplished. Raimi's "Spider-Man" is far and away my favorite movie of the year (at least until "Star Wars" in two weeks). It's fun, funny, a superb adventure-fantasy flick (with a bitchin' opening titles sequence), an intriguing introduction to the Spider-verse, and a moving coming-of-age story that recalls- for me- "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," and ampliphies the influence of comic books on that great Joss Whedon creation. The story- well-scripted for the screen by "Panic Room's" David Koepp (based on a treatment by James "Titanic" Cameron, who was long associated with the project)- covers all the bases: How Peter (played by "Cider House Rules'" Tobey Maguire) was bitten by a genetically-engineered spider (a bit of liberty from the comic that had fans irate, as in the comic it's a radioactive spider); how he lives with his Uncle Ben and Aunt May (Rosemary Harris); how he holds a life-long torch for literal girl-next-door Mary Jane Watson (Kirsten Dunst from "Bring It On" and "Interview With the Vampire"); how he's a nerdy outcast at school whose only friend is fellow outcast Harry Osborne (James Franco); how Harry's father is wealthy scientist Norman Osborne (Willem Dafoe), who becomes the Green Goblin after an experiment gone wrong; and finally, how he comes to accept his responsibility as the titular masked crime fighter.

It's deceptively simple comic book, but infinitely compelling drama thanks to an overqualified cast that believes in the material just as much as Raimi, and is having a great time doing it. Dafoe- whose resume includes such diverse films as "Clear and Present Danger," "Platoon," "Shadow of the Vampire," and "The Last Temptation of Christ" (where he played Jesus, for crying out loud)- gives Osborne and the Goblin a Jekyll-and-Hyde psychology to his performance as both with lasting effect; he's the best comic book baddie since Jack Nicholson went nuts as Joker in "Batman" (though I would be remiss to skip over Jim Carrey's Riddler in the otherwise-forgettable "Batman Forever"), and maybe the best ever for the genre. With a younger Academy membership, it'd be pure Oscar bait; instead, it's barely conceivable. Franco makes Harry's disdain for his father- who takes to Parker like the son he wishes he had- believable, while making his closing moments with Peter a dark harbinger of things to possibly come in upcoming installments. (A shoutout also to J.K. Simmons as J. Jonah Jameson, the editor of the Daily Bugle who asks the question, "Spider-Man: Friend or Enemy?" Brilliant scene-stealing.)

Dunst...hmmm, Dunst. Uh, sorry. What a hottie this gifted actress has become. Sexy, smart, funny, and all around adorable- not bad for someone who made their breakthrough playing an angel-faced vampire alongside Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt (and was robbed of an Oscar in the process). Dunst's Mary Jane is the richest comic book love interest since Lois Lane (probably because she's the most realized), with the actress bringing out MJ's popular persona at the beginning, her verbally-abused daughter melancholy, playful and friendly rapport with Peter, and fascination with Spider-Man with sly, sexy ease. I have yet to see her acclaimed performance in "The Cat's Meow," but in my book, she's never been better.

But in all honesty, Tobey Maguire is the key. Sure, Leo DiCaprio could have put people in seats, but could he play a normal high school kid wrestling with not just newfound superpowers and the trials and tribulations of real life? My Spider sense says no. (Plus, why go for a star when the popularity of the comic alone will get auditoriums packed?) Nick Stahl ("In the Bedroom," and just cast as John Connor in "Terminator 3") might have worked, as would have "Buffy's" Nicholas Brendon. And if you had told me a couple years ago that Maguire- from "The Ice Storm," "Wonder Boys," and the overpraised "Cider House Rules" (which I wasn't that high on his performance in)- could do superhero, I would have laughed. But Raimi said he wasn't casting for Spider-Man; he was casting Peter Parker. Smart move. Raimi brings out all of Maguire's best traits from his previous work- his silent, intense brooding, intelligence in speech, inherent geekiness in look- in the character of Peter, and adds a sense of delight and excitement that we haven't seen before in Maguire. His wonderful chemistry with Dunst also provides the movie's most lasting moment, a rain-soaked smooch with Spidey upside-down as an appreciative MJ- after sensually pulling off his mask to reveal his mouth- plants one on his pucker. You've undoubtedly seen clips of it from the trailers; it's even better in the movie, and one of the great kisses- geniusly staged by Raimi- in cinema history. Like Christopher Reeve as Clark Kent/Superman, Maguire becomes the character and his hero alter ego; he makes you believe no one else would do in that role (which might explain why Warner Bros. has never been able to get a new Superman movie off the ground; no one else but Reeve would do). Like Elijah Wood as Frodo Baggins in "Lord of the Rings" (who, natch, happens to be Maguire's "Ice Storm" co-star), it's a much-deserved breakthrough that will sadly be overshadowed by the high tech achievements of the film come Oscar time.

Sound too good to be true? Well, the best things usually do. And I would be remiss not to point out the flaws in the film:
-The CGI acrobatics. Designed by John Dykstra (who worked on the first "Star Wars"), it takes a while for the CG to get past seam-showing and become show-stopping. But when that happens, I dare you not to be thrilled.
-Danny Elfman's score. Though his music for Tim Burton's "Batman" is instantly memorable, his Spider-score- though serving the basic purpose of enhancing the on-screen drama- is a bit of a letdown. It lacks a memorable theme (though this isn't held against it), and it sounds recycled a lot of times (esp. from last year's "Planet of the Apes" score).
-The dialogue in the confrontation scenes. Though delivered with gusto by Dafoe and Maguire, it skirts camp a few too many times. Some trimming would have rectified the situation.
-The ending. Though the last scene between Maguire and Dunst has an emotional pull after all the action, and the logic of Maguire's statements makes sense, it leaves you quite unsatisfied.

But you know what? Who cares when you have this much fun? Raimi's daredevil direction (up there with "Panic Room's" David Fincher as the year's best), his pitch-perfect cast, and all the heart, humor, and excitement you can ask from popcorn fodder makes "Spider-Man" a genuine event, and a can't-miss smash. If "Star Wars" is destined to be the year's biggest bread-winner (and pre-release hype says it is), it'll have to get past this dazzling web-slinger first. Best of luck.

Grade for "Spider-Man"- A

Viva La Resistance!

Brian Skutle

Sheepshaver127

05-04-2002, 12:13 PM

SPOILERS*****

When the Green Goblin releases MJ on the bridge in the end, it shows Spidey crouching, and in one of his eyes, you see the reflection of MJ falling down. A great comic book moment, but sadly, the only really good one.

The final fight scene is well edited, between Spidey and the GG, but then it cops out and resorts to an utterly predictable outcome, and a short line of dialogue is added right before the blades stab Dafoe; totally idiotic and cliched.

END SPOILERS*****

[This message has been edited by Fergus (edited 05-04-2002).][/B][/QUOTE]
Hmm.... It's a shame that the scene with MJ on the bridge is not an actual comic book moment, however the idiotic and cliched way that the goblin dies is an actual moment. Oh well, you tried. Yes I know that the scene has some similarities to Gwen's death but not much. And again in my opinion this movie rocks!!

ColinM

05-04-2002, 03:36 PM

I cannot believe how much money it made yesterday. Obviously I knew it would make a lot, but that much for one Friday...WOW!

Anyway...

Spider-Man (8/10)

I got exactly what I wanted...a great time at the movies! This movie is tons of fun with some cool effects and great fighting, as well as decent acting and a surprising amount of emotional scenes. Kirsten Dunst has got to be one of the best young actresses out there, and she did great with the part of Mary Jane even though I didn't expect her to. Willem Dafoe did a great job as the villian, and J.K. Simmons gave a wonderful comedic performance as J. Jonah Jameson. My only complaint was that at times, the Green Goblin looked and moved like a Power Rangers villain, but most of the time he was OK. Some of the dialogue Spiderman spits out might seem corny, but it's exactly the way Spidey talks in the comics, which I appreciate. "Just your friendly neighborhood Spiderman".

Scrunch

05-04-2002, 04:02 PM

Originally posted by Irene Manor:
- Do you all think that "You mess with one of us you mess with all of us" line was put in post-9/11? I was wondering this myself. There were a lot of cheers at the point of the movie where that line was said. It would be been true to NY style if it was pre or post 9/11. It really made me smile though.

BitchTits

05-04-2002, 04:04 PM

BTW, did the audience clap at the end of the movie? Because the audience I was in did.

Irene Manor

05-04-2002, 06:24 PM

Originally posted by BitchTits:
BTW, did the audience clap at the end of the movie? Because the audience I was in did.

Sure did.

I just wanted to add that the wrestler who Spidey beat was "Macho Man" Randy Savage (WWF, Slim Jim fame) -- For the person who was asking if the character was scary.

Moviefreek

05-05-2002, 01:00 AM

Ladies and Gentlemen, in the ring we have our Hero SPIDERMAN and our evil villian The GREEN GOBLIN, which results in an AWESOME MOVIE that must be seen by all, and don't you dare wait to see it on dvd or video for those who are not up to date on their electronic needs. http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif. Grab a girl, a guy, a friend, somebody and check out this movie, and i'm telling you girls, you might just want to bring a tissue, not only does the movie grab your eyes it grabs your heart too and now my introduction ends, and the review begins.

The Acting is great, you have your Tobey Maguire for the ladies, and your Kirsten Dunst for the fellas, and you also have Willem Dafoe as the villian for all the older women out there who find men in green suits attractive. Tobey stars as Peter Parker, an everday kid, that everyone can assosiate with, he has the girl of his dreams living next door, the one he first laid eyes on when he was only 6, and has had feelings for his whole life, but you know shes dating some big jock dude, who I didn't like, I wanted to slap him personally, but thats a whole nother story. Then you have Kirsten, why couldn't she live next door to me? What can i say about her, she is intriged by this spiderman, and i will stop there, becouse i want you too check out the movie.

The effects were tight for the most part, you have your swinging spiderman, you have your shooting webs, the green goblin aircraft, you have your special effects fix for the night, and maybe for the next two weeks until the oh so popular installment to the star wars franchise is released, but lets not go there, our main focus here is Spiderman, becouse he is our hero and he brings us some eye candy too, isn't he so kind. I love you Spiderman!

The story was pretty good, it wasn't flat and it wasn't tremendously mind blowing either, its a comic book story, but its Spidermans story, not some guy in a cape, some man who wears a dark suit that shows off his pecks, its a teenage guy, who has problems like any other teenager, someone like I said before we can understand, don't get me wrong I would like to understand what drives a man to where his undies outside of his pants, I really would, but that has nothing to do with the story. Like I was saying before, its an entertaining story that keeps your eyes to the screen, the effects are there to back it up, and the ending still gets to me, but I can't tell you about that, becouse you have to see the movie. As you walk out only one thought will go through your mind, I want the sequal now.

So, if your going for the effects, Tobey, Kirsten, Spiderman, whatever the case may be, I can promise you will have a good time, so go get your ticket, grab somebody, anybody, and swing over to the theatre and see your neighborhood friendly spiderman. If I could spin a web, the web would read: 9.5/10

Benny

05-05-2002, 01:05 AM

I'll give a bigger review of this later when I am less tired, but for now let me say I thought Spider-Man was great! Tobey was very good as Spidey, and Kirsten was hot and energetic as always, but it was Willem Dafoe who stole the show as The Green Goblin! Overall, I'd give it an 8/10.

jackson13

05-05-2002, 01:28 AM

A funny thing happened on Friday when I saw this. **POSSIBLE SPOILERS**

When Harry is talking to Peter at the cemetary in the end, and he talks about how Spidey killed his dad and how he will "make spidey pay", me and about 3 other people all shouted at the same time "SEQUEL"!!!
**END OF POSSIBLE SPOILERS**
I found it really funny that that many of us all said it at the same time. Now I know for a fact that they are making a sequel, but that scene pretty much said "sequel" for sure. On the way out of the theater, I was talking with some friends and we all basically said "Gee, I wonder who the bad guy will be in the sequel??"

inglourious basterd

05-05-2002, 01:47 AM

Originally posted by jackson13:
I found it really funny that that many of us all said it at the same time. Now I know for a fact that they are making a sequel, but that scene pretty much said "sequel" for sure. On the way out of the theater, I was talking with some friends and we all basically said "Gee, I wonder who the bad guy will be in the sequel??"[/B]

It wasnt supposed to be a mystery..

dellamorte dellamore

05-05-2002, 04:17 AM

Guess people are easy to please.Dunst was awful,she seemed stoned half the time,this picture is way overrrated.

Just thought i would break up the love fest,everyone seems to be smitten with this,but i have no idea why,a bunch of mindless zombies flocking to the next big thing.

Did you see that cringe inducing ending when PP says goodbye to MJ,it went on for what seemed like 20 minutes,i could'nt take it.Then i've been hitting the bong Dunst,with that glazed over look in her eye,one of the most overrated actresses in some time(she was totally unconvincing).Parker friend,just a godawful performance all around.Could have replaced him with a chimp.Yes,they're will be a sequel with Hobgoblin.

Can you please tell me why the principal characters(especially PP),did not have any thing resembling a New York accent?Only the residual characters did.Come on this is Queens we're talking about,and everyone spoke perfect California accent English.

That scene were MJ gets attacked,please,did'nt i see that in Batman Forever.What a coincidence,right after he's finished talking to her,a group of assembly line thugs from central casting shows up to terrorize her.How convenient.

You could have took her out of the picture all together,and it would'nt have made a difference,actually it would have ben an improvement.They could have focused more on the action.But,when you pander to the audience,you have to have that gag inducing romantic angle.Hope she's not in the sequel.

World unity day(a plug for Globalism?)festival,straight out of Batman 1.I was waiting for toxic gas to come out of the balloons.

The film could have been made by student in film school,because that's what it felt like,with coincidences up the wazoo,flat dialogue,and a hacker's mentality.Was there anything original about this film?

It's heartening though,to know you don't really have have to have talent,you can hack someone else's creation,and pander like mad,and you too can make a killing at the box office.But it helps to have a built in audience already like the fans of the Sman comic book.

I gotta take some notes.I'll illustrate some of the elements later.

Oh yeah,i like how much crime Manhattan experienced in such a short amount of time.That was probably true in KOch and Dinkins time,but not in Guiliani's.Then he goes saving everyone,seens straight out of Superman 1.

If you shmoes liked it,great,but it left me wanting more,and in some instances less.I still wish Cameron got the nod,that would have been something,but i did get some unintended laughs with all those Double Entendres.

"Something i've never felt before".Hilarious stuff,i almost wet my pants.

Another thing that had me steaming,is the characterizations of the denizens of New York City.They were the typical cliche that Hollywood seems to love.They even had to throw in the stereotypical Indian shopkeeper,it's still okay to make fun of them you know.And the scene on the bridge was another embarrassing moment.

[This message has been edited by dellamorte dellamore (edited 05-05-2002).]

Muha

05-05-2002, 09:45 AM

spider-man fuckin rocked!

it was great!

im so glad it made a lot of money too

Common Sense Man

05-05-2002, 10:13 AM

You know I have not seen Spidey yet, I am sure I will.

But there is one thing about this movie that makes me want to see it even more than the reviews.

It has shattered HP opening day and one day records and will most likely get the opening weekend record from HP as well.

That in itself is good enough reason for me to see it.

http://www.boxofficemojo.com/images/spiderman_spiderman_128x100.jpg

Go Spidey it's your birthday, go Spidey.......

Out.............

Horror whore

05-05-2002, 10:23 AM

chrisboo

05-05-2002, 12:47 PM

Folks, I hate to tell ya, but DD is right on the money...

Mildly entertaining, certainly occasionally funny and touching, but this director did about as good a job as anyone on their first day of film school.

The pacing was absolutely terrible. I haven't felt such a groan of pain when this movie lurched to a standstill (2 or 3 times!) in quite a while. The guy who played Peter was pretty good and pulled it off. Willem DeFoe did a great job too. Most of the other characters were very weak. The diner cook did a better job than Peter's buddy. The story was over-laden with cheese, and the movie suffered. It tried to cover waaay to much ground way too quickly, and then other parts dragged on for waaay too long.

If you're over 15, let someone else pay for the rental and then see it... If you're still in Jr High, go see it immediately. And stand on a really long line. And pay full evening price. And buy lots of stuff from the concession.

And then go *buy* copies of ALL the Superman movies (for an apples/apples comparison) and see how even at their worst, they are at least not ever boring, they have stories and characters with greater than puddle depth, and still remain somewhat faithful to the comic. Oh yeah, and Superman's flying looks way more believeable than Spidey's swingin. More expensive technology is not always better.

Sadly, Blade 2 was actually better...

5/10

msquared

05-05-2002, 01:07 PM

Don't worry about Dellamorte's negative viewpoints, I figure he is just one of those guys who enjoys bashing popular summer blockbusters, trying to spoil everyone's fun. It wouldn't matter what movie it was,people like that find a way to criticize it.

Everybody I've talked to who has seen Spider-Man loved it, and the majority of the reviews are positive. If seasoned critics thought the acting was good, then I am not going to be picky about it.

As for the sequel, I say NAY to Hobgoblin, leave him for later. I want Doc Oc! Regarding Michael Clarke Duncan as Kingpin, I'd rather not see that. I'm a fan of Duncan, but Kingpin isn't buff like that. He should be played with someone with a body type similar to King Kong Bundy of wrestling fame. Of course, if Duncan does get the part, I'm sure he will good at it.

Dumb-Fokker-**

05-05-2002, 02:33 PM

Well, as a HUGE fan of everything Spider-Man, I am sorry to report that you people who have said that this movie is nothing like the comic-book - you are all FULL OF IT! I have read almost every Spider-Man comic, spin-off series, I have tons of toys, ect. and I loved the movie. Toby Maguire was perfect for the role, and Kirsten Dunst brought that "Mary Jane" feel to her character. Even the Green Goblin (I didnt like his suit before the movie came out) turned out to be great! The acting was comic-book movie standard (read; fun) and the dialouge is appropriately comic-book style. But you cant please them all, can you?? Spider-Man 8.5/10

dh1989

05-05-2002, 08:35 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
Guess people are easy to please.Dunst was awful,she seemed stoned half the time,this picture is way overrrated.

Just thought i would break up the love fest,everyone seems to be smitten with this,but i have no idea why,a bunch of mindless zombies flocking to the next big thing.

Did you see that cringe inducing ending when PP says goodbye to MJ,it went on for what seemed like 20 minutes,i could'nt take it.Then i've been hitting the bong Dunst,with that glazed over look in her eye,one of the most overrated actresses in some time(she was totally unconvincing).Parker friend,just a godawful performance all around.Could have replaced him with a chimp.Yes,they're will be a sequel with Hobgoblin.

Can you please tell me why the principal characters(especially PP),did not have any thing resembling a New York accent?Only the residual characters did.Come on this is Queens we're talking about,and everyone spoke perfect California accent English.

That scene were MJ gets attacked,please,did'nt i see that in Batman Forever.What a coincidence,right after he's finished talking to her,a group of assembly line thugs from central casting shows up to terrorize her.How convenient.

You could have took her out of the picture all together,and it would'nt have made a difference,actually it would have ben an improvement.They could have focused more on the action.But,when you pander to the audience,you have to have that gag inducing romantic angle.Hope she's not in the sequel.

World unity day(a plug for Globalism?)festival,straight out of Batman 1.I was waiting for toxic gas to come out of the balloons.

The film could have been made by student in film school,because that's what it felt like,with coincidences up the wazoo,flat dialogue,and a hacker's mentality.Was there anything original about this film?

It's heartening though,to know you don't really have have to have talent,you can hack someone else's creation,and pander like mad,and you too can make a killing at the box office.But it helps to have a built in audience already like the fans of the Sman comic book.

I gotta take some notes.I'll illustrate some of the elements later.

Oh yeah,i like how much crime Manhattan experienced in such a short amount of time.That was probably true in KOch and Dinkins time,but not in Guiliani's.Then he goes saving everyone,seens straight out of Superman 1.

If you shmoes liked it,great,but it left me wanting more,and in some instances less.I still wish Cameron got the nod,that would have been something,but i did get some unintended laughs with all those Double Entendres.

"Something i've never felt before".Hilarious stuff,i almost wet my pants.

Another thing that had me steaming,is the characterizations of the denizens of New York City.They were the typical cliche that Hollywood seems to love.They even had to throw in the stereotypical Indian shopkeeper,it's still okay to make fun of them you know.And the scene on the bridge was another embarrassing moment.

[This message has been edited by dellamorte dellamore (edited 05-05-2002).]

You seem to hate every touching moment in this film. The bridge scene was not embarrassing. It showed the New York pride. would dellamorte dellamore be more pleased if they had said "Go Goblin! I want to see all those kids drown. Plus you should really stab Spidey and kill that red head really slowly. Come on put on a show for us cold New Yorkers".

The final moment where Peter Parker turned down M.J. was there to push one of the major plot points of the film. That Peter is learning to be responsible and not put a nice girl in danger. Plus there is a little thing called character developemnt.

NYC has tons of crime. Are you telling me it is so rare to have a car stolen, a 7-11 type store robbed, purses santched, stabbings, etc. I guess the N.Y.P.D. are useless.

Oh so a there should be no scenes is a superhero film where he is saving people? Is it considered ripping off a film when two films show someone being mugged. It is in millions of films. It is not like they showed Spidey spinning a huge web and turning the Earth backwards to go back in time. Now that is when you could say rip off.

I jsut tihnk you are out for blood on this movie. I don't understand why though.

P.S. Kirsten Dunst is a great actress! Without her the film would be missing a big part of Peter's character. It makes him seem more real to have a crush.

I guess most people are not like you. As the film opened with 114 million and Cinemascore gavie all A's.

idealdiscountdude

05-05-2002, 08:46 PM

Bump....

xxxx19

05-05-2002, 11:24 PM

It's obvous that Dellamorte is a die hard LOTR fanboy.Somehow putting down Spiderman at every chance (Yeah Dunst looked stoned--Where else can I get such great film commentary?) validates his love for all things LOTR.

Tell me Dellamorte are you jealous just because Spiderman's opening weekend smashed not only what you expected,but the opening totals for LOTR ?

Dunch

05-06-2002, 02:23 AM

I saw it once friday, 1:15pm packed!
Saw it 7:15pm saturday, packed. As I walked out of the theater the 9:30 show had a line bigger than any I've EVER seen before at a theater. I havent seen a line half that long since Titanic.
Saw it today, Sunday, 4:30pm..PACKED! I was happy to see such great crowds all three days.

I'm a HUGE fan of the comics, and I am glad to see a film stay pretty true to it's roots. (no gwen stacey, but the bridge scene was homage to her). This was the best comic book film ever, hands down.. Actually, it's my favorite film personally of all time. It touched me, it was SPIDER MAN, and it was just damn good.

revision.. 10/10 BIG TIME.

I even enjoyed the XXX Trailer. I screamed "YEAH! VIN DIESEL!" and laughed INSANELY when Vin Diesel said, "The things I'm gonna do for my country"

BTW, I really hate Vin Diesel and I think he's horrible and not funny. I just did all that stuff above to be an asshole.

FatJohnny

05-06-2002, 09:16 AM

Y'know what my favorite part about people who don't like movies that do huge business? It's that they always make it a point to call the rest of the world stupid.

It can't be that the movie just wasn't their cup of tea, or that it just didn't jive with them, or - God forbid - they didn't get it, it's that the whole rest of the world is stupid.

And it's that attitude which reveals that they are simply either a) fishing for a reaction or b) they decided to hate this movie no matter what.

Movies are stories. Sure, it CAN be art, but movies started out as stories, and a majority always have been. If you don't like the story, deal with it, and find another you might like better. Screaming about a movie like this is like calling everyone who liked 'The Three Bears' as a kid an idiot. There's no basis, and no reason.

sleekproductions

05-06-2002, 10:30 AM

The action scenes and skyscraper scenes were amazing. Plain and simple. However, I fell that the movie just didn't work. Tobey McGuire was perfect, and he did a great job of acting, but I didn't buy it. In other words, other than Tobey I think the acting was not good at all. I just didn't believe what these people were going through. It was a valiant effort, and it was entertaining and enjoyable in the theatre, it just left me wishing that everything was good. Oh well. Guess I'll have to wait 'til may 16th to get my awesome film ;-)!

6.5/10

dellamorte dellamore

05-06-2002, 10:33 AM

I admit,yes,i'm a fanboy of LOTR,but that's not why Sman was a disappointment,at least not the main reason.

Just about everything about this film rang false.The characterizations,acting,forced sentimentality,internal conflicts,and MJ's attraction to PP.

I use LOTR as a reference simply because,both films rely heavily on visuals in order to tell their respective stories,and they both cost about the same amount of money to produce,but LOTR is so far ahead of this middling effort,that i don't know where all the money went.

LOTR is far superior,and more effective with regards to Fx,character development,characterizations,acting,music,sound effects,narrative,cinematography,directing(Jackson is a visionary,Raimi is proving to be a studio hack),romantic elements,editing,set design,and so much more that i can't think of them all right now.

And yes,that scene on the bridge was insulting,it just solidifies the New Yawk cliche,where everyone tawks with dems' and dos'(ispelled them wrong on purpose of course).Yes there is crime in NYC,but not that much in a 24 hour period,unless you're referring to the Koch administration(Dinkins too).It's not pride it's an embarrasing pandering move on Raimi's part.There was no suspense either,you knew Spidey would save everyone,and everyone is all happy,where is the suspense?Oh yeah,in a mainstream film,the general rule for death is that only Old people are allowed to succumb.I guess they figure they are on their way out anyway.

I'm sick of contrived,coincidental scenes in films too.I hated the way PP kept conveniently running into MJ outside the diner,and there scenes were the weakest part of this film.But you have to pander to the women in the audience,after all they are the majority.You could have eleminated her part altogether and it would'nt have made a difference.Anytime she was not on screen for a certain amount of time,and then finally showing up again,i had this,oh yeah she's in this picture too,The same feeling i had concerning his "friend".One of the most non descript roles in a while.He'll probably be a villian in a sequel,that's even more disturbing.

I don't care how much it made,or made over the weekend,first tickets are 9 bucks a pop on average,and it was showing on a ton of screens.Check out it's per screen average to get a better idea how good it really did.Blair has the record at 56,000.Let's see Spidey beat that one.

And please,one more time,why do they have to have the cliched,stereotypical Indian shopkeeper in all these films set in NYC,and how come all the main characters did'nt have anything resembling a New York accent,Queens in particular.I know,they want to appeal to the mainstream,and to feature that accent would turn alot of people off.

Another thing,i never bought Dafoe's performance,and his motivations for freaking out were weak.The scene when he was in the gas chamber reminded me of Hollow Man.That just about sums up the feeling i had after leaving this film,Hollow.

It'll fizzle once Clones comes out,but it did surprise me how much money it made,i did'nt know there was so many people with such a high tolerance for cheese.I mean that in a good way,because my tolerance is off the charts.It's just that this one was the difference between Blue Cheese(Sman)and Swiss(Batman Forever).

later

[This message has been edited by dellamorte dellamore (edited 05-06-2002).]

xxxx19

05-06-2002, 12:05 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:

I don't care how much it made,or made over the weekend,first tickets are 9 bucks a pop on average,and it was showing on a ton of screens.Check out it's per screen average to get a better idea how good it really did.Blair has the record at 56,000.Let's see Spidey beat that one.



It's obvious from your film "breakdown"that you've never even read 1 page of Spiderman.Aside from his webs being part of his spider powers and Mary Jane being dropped from the bridge by GreenGoblin,almost everything else in the movie was dead on.

And if you want to look at box office numbers here's a few for you

LOTR opening Dec 19-23 (Wed-Sun)

$75,129,468 on 3359 screens (1 day high of
$18,214,000 for an average of $5,422)

Spiderman 114,000,000 on 3,615 screens (1 day high of $43,000,000 for an average of $12,089)

Yeah Dellamorte I can see where the $9 tickets of today dwarf the $8.50 ticets of December.

SAI

05-06-2002, 12:47 PM

Dellmore, reading your posts in this thread, both before and after you saw the film, I think I have figured out a large part of the reason you did not like it.
It seems to me that you had DECIDED not to like it before even sitting down. The tone of your posts prior to seeing the film is so biased against it that there was no chance of you liking it. You had decided before the screening, based on trailers, that the acting, effects, script and characters were rubbish. All this begs the question, why go and see it?

I'm still optimistic about this film (Fuck I HATE living in Britain)particularly due to the overwhelmingly positive response from the schmoes (cheers for the reviews everyone)but if I had the attitude you had before seeing it I simply would not bother.

msquared

05-06-2002, 02:46 PM

Dellamorte, I could respect what you are saying if you were merely stating your dislike of Spider-Man. However, what you seem intent on doing is trying to spoil people's enjoyment of this film. You have repeatedly been condescending to the the movie's fans, and you persistantly slam it at least once a day. You are devoting a lot of time and effort to a movie you claim is substandard.

I find some of your latest comments interesting. For instance, mentioning that everyone knows that Spidey will save the day, and therefore there is no suspense. Huh? In almost every action movie made, we know the hero will save the day. Lets use LOTR as an example. Almost everybody who has watched it has read the book. They knew almost exactly what was going to happen. So why don't you apply your statement to LOTR as well? (Note: I am not slamming LOTR, I greatly enjoyed it. )

You also mention that the coincidence of Peter running into Mary Jane, indicating that such an incident is ludicrous. Once again, I refer you to LOTR. (SPOILER WARNING) When Frodo is poisoned by the Ring Wraith, Arwen just happens to show up and take him to where he can be saved. As well, early in their journey, Frodo and Sam just happen to run into two of their kin, a long distance from the Shire, just before they first encounter a Ring Wraith. Why do you seem to think it is alright for LOTR to have such coincidences, while simultaneously condemning Spider-Man for it?

You have twice mentioned that the accents are wrong. Movies get accents wrong all the time. You better get used to it. Trust me, the majority of the world doesn't know or care if the characters have authentic New York accents.

One final thing, you keep referring to the "sterotypical Indian shopkeeper". I can not even remember this character, so I am assuming he is one of the people the reporters are interviewing. If this is the case, he would have had at most 15 seconds of screentime. How could he become a stereotype with 15 seconds to develop his character?

Todd1700

05-06-2002, 04:48 PM

I also didn't think this movie was that good. It was okay at best. Tobey was believable as Peter Parker and most of the actors played their parts well but the action and the visual effects sucked. I usually try to be understanding of different taste in films but anyone who looked at the CGI in this movie and though it was good must have dropped acid in the parking lot before going inside. It was pitiful. Where did the 130 million go? It sure as hell didn't go to the visual effects department. The action scenes were flat and at times too far between. The suit they made poor Willem Dafoe wear as the Green Goblin was embarassing. He looked like one of the Mighty Morphine Power Rangers. The brief glimpse of Kirsten Dunst tits through her wet shirt was a nice moment but her part was pretty lifeless. I read Spiderman quite a bit as a teenager and yet I still agree with Roger Ebert about the ending. WTF!! I don't remember Spiderman swearing off women in the comic. Especially the one he loved.
My rating is 5 out of 10 stars. I'd be interrested to know the age of the posters on here calling this their favorite film. I just can't believe anyone over 14 would say that.

Silverload

05-06-2002, 05:50 PM

Originally posted by Todd1700:
I also didn't think this movie was that good. It was okay at best. Tobey was believable as Peter Parker and most of the actors played their parts well but the action and the visual effects sucked. I usually try to be understanding of different taste in films but anyone who looked at the CGI in this movie and though it was good must have dropped acid in the parking lot before going inside. It was pitiful. Where did the 130 million go? It sure as hell didn't go to the visual effects department. The action scenes were flat and at times too far between. The suit they made poor Willem Dafoe wear as the Green Goblin was embarassing. He looked like one of the Mighty Morphine Power Rangers. The brief glimpse of Kirsten Dunst tits through her wet shirt was a nice moment but her part was pretty lifeless. I read Spiderman quite a bit as a teenager and yet I still agree with Roger Ebert about the ending. WTF!! I don't remember Spiderman swearing off women in the comic. Especially the one he loved.
My rating is 5 out of 10 stars. I'd be interrested to know the age of the posters on here calling this their favorite film. I just can't believe anyone over 14 would say that. 

I am 20 years old and I loved this movie, as did the entire audience I was with, when the movie ended the theater filled with clapping.

The effects in Spiderman were excellent.

Also Peter Parker didn’t swear off women, you obviously missed the whole point, I suggest you pay more attention to a movie next time you decided to bad mouth it.

You must be another one of those people that can’t stand to see so many people enjoy something you didn’t so you have to try and ruin it for everyone by just talking out of your ass.

Spider-Man 10/10

the_sneaker

05-06-2002, 06:37 PM

Usually when a movie has a lot of cliches, I'll bash it like there was no tomorrow. However, David Koepp, the screenwriter, followed the comic book farley well. That also includes the cliches. I was going somewhere with this, but now I forgot...

Anyhoo I loved this movie so much. Every time I see a picture of Spider-Man, I want to see it again and again. Great acting, espicially Toby Macguire and William Dafoe. Who else thought he made a great Green Goblin?

the_sneaker

05-06-2002, 06:45 PM

Originally posted by Fergus:
The final fight scene is well edited, between Spidey and the GG, but then it cops out and resorts to an utterly predictable outcome, and a short line of dialogue is added right before the blades stab Dafoe; totally idiotic and cliched. 

That's what I'm saying. When the comic book was written, it was full of cliches. Koepp took everything, including the cliches, and made a wonderful screenplay.

Once agian, the movie was awsome. 10/10 A+

Crapstorm

05-06-2002, 06:46 PM

There's very little accounting for taste in the movie business. It's all razzle-dazzle nowadays. Spend $100M or more on a film, and you'll have dozens of schmoes declaring it the best movie ever. Take Lord of the Rings, for example. And rest assured that we'll see the same enthusiasm over Nutsack of the Clones, Minority Report and Men in Black 2.

dellamorte dellamore

05-06-2002, 07:13 PM

I'm frustrated,because with some inspired casting,a strong narrative,and some risk taking on the part of Raimi,the film could have a classic on a par with Supe and Bman.

Instead,the final result was a mildly entertaining(sometimes exciting)action/drama/love story.

There were some scenes i liked,and there were times that the GG was actually menacing.When he attacked the bunker,you did'nt see him,but you heard that hideous cackle,that worked.

When PP springs into action in pursuit of the man that mugged his Uncle,i got a rush out of that,and the puusuit was rousing.

Even though i don't see how they spent 100 mil plus on this effort(think the animators were getting paid some serious overtime),the action scenes were the strongest part of the film.There really was'nt enough of them,and GG's motivations were not clear.If they were,the actions would have had more emotional resonance.Instead it seemed like a cheap set up to show SM in action.

I really feel any young looking,non threatening(short,slim,attractive but not intimidating)actor could have played PP.The majority of the action scenes were CGI or stuntmen,and the role did not exaxctly take any sort of range or depth.Ditto for Dunst,Franco,and Dafoe.Anyone could have played all those roles,they were non descript.

I could see Elijah Wood as PP,and he would probably have done a better job.

I don't mind coincidences,so long as they seem somewhat probable,but the ones in Sman were to much of a stretch,and they seemed awkward for the story and the actors.

Another cliche was MJ's boss at the diner.Fat,nasty,and overbearing.I think they threw him in there so he could get his SAG card.I can't see any other reason for that scene.

If you've ever been to queens,you'll run into people that don't even sound like they are speaking English,i doubt you'll run into anyone who even vaguely resembles PP,or some like him.The Hollywood version of Queens is totally inaccurate with regards to regional dialect and the attitude of the populace.But i know,it's based on the comic,it was'nt Raimi's fault

I like the it's based on the comic or novel excuse anytime someone seemingly creates an uninspired effort.

THat's ultimately what this was,uninspired and flat.It could have been much more,i was hoping it was,but it will be cool on DVD,it should sound great in DTS.And i'll be able to skip the insufferable romantic scenes.

If anyone wants to know why PP only wanted to be friends,i read a review that said it was because he did'nt want to put her in danger.Makes some sense,but just the fact that they are friends,automatically puts her in danger.

One question,did'nt MJ get killed by the GG in the comic books?Issue #121.# 122 was the one were he gets revenge and kills him.

xxxx19

05-06-2002, 07:17 PM

I could see Elijah Wood as PP,and he would probably have done a better job.



Your obsession with LOTR is even worse than I imagined.

xxxx19

05-06-2002, 07:19 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:

One question,did'nt MJ get killed by the GG in the comic books?Issue #121.# 122 was the one were he gets revenge and kills him.[/B]

No that was Gwen Stacey that Green Goblin kills

Horror whore

05-06-2002, 07:34 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:

Even though i don't see how they spent 100 mil plus on this effort(think the animators were getting paid some serious overtime),the action scenes were the strongest part of the film.There really was'nt enough of them,and GG's motivations were not clear.If they were,the actions would have had more emotional resonance.Instead it seemed like a cheap set up to show SM in action.

You really missed a lot of this movie. I don't know if you were thinking about what bad to say about it when it showed his motive (over and over again) but it's defenitley there!

dellamorte dellamore

05-06-2002, 08:43 PM

Originally posted by xxxx19:
No that was Gwen Stacey that Green Goblin kills

I knew someone did.So they did deviate from the comic book somewhat.But the way he died was the same from what i remember,it was almost 15 years ago that i read those issues.

LordKaruku

05-06-2002, 09:06 PM

Er, two-dimensional characters? Lack of villain motivation? Cliched dialogue? Cartoony-looking special effects?

IT'S A MOVIE BASED ON A COMIC BOOK!!!!

That's not an excuse, it's a simple fact!

I thought all of the above were completely appropriate for the type of movie it was. If you'd like well-developed characters and inspiring dialogue, you're free to rent Kenneth Braunnagh's excellent Hamlet, available on VHS or DVD at your local video store.

idealdiscountdude

05-06-2002, 10:58 PM

Bump

Strider

05-07-2002, 04:15 AM

Spider-Man (2002)

Rated PG-13 for Stylized Violence & Action

Director: Sam Raimi

Starring Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, J.K. Simmons, Rosemary Harris. & Cliff Robertson.

The film's plot focuses on Peter Parker(Tobey Maguire), a nerdy highschool student who is bitten by a radioactive spider. After this happens, Peter begins to change drastically.

I love comic-books. Even though I've stopped reading them, I still love them. When I was first introduced into the comic-book world, I read about many different places, cities, and worlds. I also read about superheroes. My favorite was always, and forever will be Spider-Man. After I finished reading my very first issue of "The Amazing Spider-Man", I was hooked. I became an instant fan. The main reason Spider-Man is my favorite is because he's just a down-to-earth human being. He represents the common man.

Tobey Maguire was outstanding as the web-slinger. He carried this film on top of his shoulders. And he did so brilliantly. I regret ever doubting him. I really didn't think he could pull-off this role. But I was wrong. And I'm glad I was. There's no question about it, Tobey Maguire is Spider-Man.

Willem Dafoe was brilliant as the Green Goblin. He played the cold hearted Norman Osbourne and his other personality perfectly. Dafoe played one of the greatest comic-book villains of all time, and delivered a memorable performance that ranks up there with Jack Nicholsan's "Joker", Ian McKellan's "Magneto", Danny DeVito's "Penguin", and Gene Hackman's "Lex Luthor".

Kirsten Dunst was just amazing as Mary Jane Watson. The chemistry between her and Tobey Maguire was wonderful. Dunst was the perfect choice to play the love of Spidey's life. I'll say it again, she was just perfect.

"Spider-Man" was an excellent film. I loved every minute of it. I was expecting a lot of from this film, and it did not disappoint me. It surpassed me expectations beyond my wildest dreams. Director, Sam Raimi, has taken one of the greatest comic-books ever created, and turned it into a classic film that will be remembered for many years to come.

Running Time: 2 hours 1 minute

Grade: 10/10

Strider

dellamorte dellamore

05-07-2002, 08:34 AM

I have to see it again,to really get a feel for this film.I think what bothers me the most is that it seems just a bit too childless for my tastes.I get the distinct feeling it was aimed at the younger crowd specifically,because there is virtually no depth present in the characters or the narrative.

It did'nt give me that wow feeling,it was more like that was wild,but nothing really stayed with me when i left the theater,i did'nt get the feeling i wanted to see it again,unless its on DVD and i can fast foward the slow parts(anything with his friend and MJ).

They played it extremely safe with this one,i guess when you spend a ton of money on a picture,it's not wise to take chances.

It's an extremely predictable,straightfoward effort that caught steam because of it's pedigree,but based on my first viewing,i would say,it's overall good,sometimes great,sometimes amazing,but as a whole just good.

The next time i watch it,all that could change,but the whole time i watched it i was getting flashbacks of other superhero/comic book character films,it did'nt have a life of it's own.

Ah,what do i know,i don't know the first thing about making a movie,but i do know what i like,and when a certain effort is derivative.

There is one thing that i really appreciate about this film,it's strong moral compass,and sense of justice.It was also a classy effort,for the most part,except that shameless wet t-shirt scene.

Crapstorm

05-07-2002, 10:34 AM

One really shouldn't go into a movie like Spider-Man or The Mummy or any other mega-budget explosion movie expecting depth, plot or intrigue. These blockbusters are made for the masses, the lowest common denominator, the slack-jawed Pepsi Generation whose intellectual profundity can be summed up by the average Limp Bizkit lyric. That's not to say that the movies aren't fun. They are incredibly fun, but they are usually devoid of all literary/artistic merit.

It's funny to see guys like Dellamorte expressing regret that the characters in Spider-Man lacked depth and the story took no risks. Well of course it took no risks! When you get a $130m budget to make a movie, you STICK TO THE FORMULA. And people, invariably, love it.

inglourious basterd

05-07-2002, 01:11 PM

True that, crapstorm..

I dont really see why dellamore feels so passionate about the topic. It was obviously intended for the mainstream audience.

Hollywood is all about big receipts. If it were to take the risks that you were hoping for, perhaps you would have been content, however the majority would have been pissed off.

It isnt Ghost World. You seemed to have incredibly high expectations for it. I dont know what else to say..

chrisboo

05-07-2002, 01:14 PM

I agree that you shouldn't be surprised when the big-budget flick of the week lacks in real quality. I disagree that you shouldn't call the thing out on the carpet for what it is or be vocal and saddened at what could have been.

If this board only allowed lollipop reviews it wouldn't be worthwhile. The few that have stood up and said that this movie was less than perfect (how this could possibly be 10/10 to anyone is amazing to me) are defining the point of this thing. As long as you can back it up with a reason, your opinion is valid. I do think though, that ratings really low or really high deserve more explaination than those that are more in the average range. If you're telling me that a movie is the best you've ever seen, it'd be nice to know if you've seen more than 1.

Just because They tell me I'm supposed to like it doesn't mean I will (or even should). :-)

SAI

05-07-2002, 03:01 PM

Originally posted by Crapstorm:
It's funny to see guys like Dellamorte expressing regret that the characters in Spider-Man lacked depth [/B]

I disagree. If, on this point, I end up agreeing with DD it will be the worst thing that could possibly happen with this movie.

The reason I love the Spider-Man comics is that the character and stories do have depth, one issue that has been talked about here is the issue in which the Green Goblin murders Gwen Stacy. ASM 121 and 122 (in which the death of Gwen (121) and the death of the Goblin (122) occur)dealt with some complex issues, and did so in a way that did not condescend to the audience.

I hope all the depth and maturity of the best of the comics is retained, it will make for a welcome change to the average summer blockbuster.

inglourious basterd

05-07-2002, 03:34 PM

**Spoilers**

Originally posted by SAI:

I hope all the depth and maturity of the best of the comics is retained, it will make for a welcome change to the average summer blockbuster.

Well...my point is that in watching Spider-man on the big screen, we cannot and should not expect it to have the depth of a film such as "A Clockwork Orange".

What is unfortunate about film is exactly what you mentioned: in order to fit everything into a two hour movie, these moments of "depth" must be heavily condensed. A scene that you referred to (in the comic book series) is one where the Green Goblin dies. If you were to look at that scene by itself, the emotion and the situational irony was there. The thing is that in the moment it just didnt feel as emotional. (This, again, had everything to do with the length of the film).

I think that above all this movie was made in order to make bank. That was obviously the main priority of the producers that were involved. However, there are instances in the movie where I think that the movie attempted to impy more. Unfortunately, it didnt always work that well. This movie was flawed and cliched. It was also fun and well directed. Its far from perfect, but it was definitely one that I enjoyed.

dellamorte dellamore

05-07-2002, 06:36 PM

Originally posted by xxxx19:
Your obsession with LOTR is even worse than I imagined.


LOL.I know,i have to settle down with my obsession with all things LOTR.

I definitely did'nt hate it,and once the excitement dies down,i'll watch it again,and probably like it more.I agree,a studio is not going to be willing to take chances or deviate from formula when so much money is on the line,but i wish they would,some high profile films have,but then again i'm not the one putting up the money.

My version would have been even safer if i was financing the majority of it,but i'd like to think i would have insisted on a stronger script,and some other important elements i've already illustrated in my original rant.You can drive yourself crazy wishing they did this or they did that,this was the final product,i'll live with it.

I would say,the majority of filmgoers will be satisfied,it's still worth the 9 or so duckets for admission,just don't get too excited,and you'll probably enjoy it even more.

later

[This message has been edited by dellamorte dellamore (edited 05-07-2002).]

The Other

05-07-2002, 11:53 PM

SPIDER-MAN makes $11.04 million on Monday for a 4 day total of $125.88 million...

dellamorte dellamore

05-08-2002, 02:17 PM

Originally posted by The Other:
SPIDER-MAN makes $11.04 million on Monday for a 4 day total of $125.88 million...

Man,that's disappointing,it's losing steam already,heh heh.

Movie Hunter

05-08-2002, 03:54 PM

guys did anyone download Spider man from Kazaa .. if so , please tell me how can i make it work coz all i get is A BLACK SCREEN and A MUTED SOUND after downloading 310 Mega in 1 day ..so please help http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

inglourious basterd

05-08-2002, 05:22 PM

Originally posted by Movie Hunter:
guys did anyone download Spider man from Kazaa .. if so , please tell me how can i make it work coz all i get is A BLACK SCREEN and A MUTED SOUND after downloading 310 Mega in 1 day ..so please help http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

If you hear sound, then its a good sign. If there is no sound, then I dont know what to say. I think you just need a codec. Email me if you need to know more about that.

Moviefreek

05-08-2002, 09:15 PM

SPIDERMAN CLIMBED TO #95 ON TOP 250 ON MOVIE DATA BASE....GO SPIDEY!

idealdiscountdude

05-08-2002, 11:33 PM

Spiderman was very fun entertainment.

The cast was great, the storyline interesting, however I thought it was a tad bit too long. Other than that it was a fun trip.

8/10

Movie Hunter

05-09-2002, 12:38 AM

o.k look guys , i dont believe that ALL the users in Kazaa would like to keep a Corrupted files of Spider man , so there must be a problem at my computer....

The Crusor in the windows media player INDICATES that there is a movie running BUT the screen is black and there is no sound....

What can i do , is there any special CODEC ??

I have DivX 5 Bundle and also it doesnt change the situation a bit ...
thanks for ur help guyz http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

spazzmatazz

05-09-2002, 03:30 AM

Shazam! Tee-hee~ That was my favorite part! I thought this movie was really good!

9/10

Moviefreek

05-09-2002, 01:27 PM

From internet movie data base, this makes me so proud, Star wars doesn't have anythign on spiderman, put away those light sabers, its now competition, spideys climbing the record charts.

----------
Can Anyone Beat Spidey?

Spider-Man continued to sprint ahead of the field Tuesday, setting new weekday records and reinforcing its previous records. According to figures released by Exhibitor Relations, the film earned $9,962,000, which would have been a terrific figure for any weekend day. The film has now earned $135,841,000 and seems certain to reach the $200 million market by next weekend. In an interview with today's (Thursday) New York Daily News, Exhibitor Relations chief Paul Dergarabedian commented: "Most summer movies are review-proof, in the sense that if they're marketed well, they'll open. ... But beyond that, it's word of mouth and the reviews that give it momentum." Spider-Man received outstanding reviews.

ColinM

05-10-2002, 05:23 PM

If we're talking Spider-Man vs Star Wars, then Star Wars is kicking Spidey's ass. Spider-Man is only at #94 on the IMDb list, but Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back are at #9 & #17 respectively.

Unless you mean just AOTC. If so, only time will tell. AOTC may not beat it though as it has it's share of people ready to declare it "the worst movie ever" already...

[This message has been edited by ColinM (edited 05-11-2002).]

Movie Hunter

05-13-2002, 12:36 AM

yeah i think that SPIDEY will kick AOTC ass...

anyway , here is a question about the movie.

---SPOILERS---

at the end of the movie , spidey keeps shooting his web and climbing everywhere right ?? ... or there is something after it ,coz the movie i downloaded stops at that , after he talks to MJ ... SO ??

---END SPOILERS---

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Fergus

05-13-2002, 02:09 AM

Originally posted by the_sneaker:
That's what I'm saying. When the comic book was written, it was full of cliches. Koepp took everything, including the cliches, and made a wonderful screenplay.

Once agian, the movie was awsome. 10/10 A+

Why did Keopp have to make every single little thing artificial. The script seemed so obvious; I really wanted to be surprised, but watching it was: blah! I also thought that Sam Raimi might make the film better using his cool visual style. Maybe he didn't want to use his own ideas, because that's what it seems like. I have my own set of expectations for every movie I go into, depending on the genre. I can't change my expectations just when I see a popcorn flick, it won't happen. That is why I hate The Mummy, and sadly, why I don't like this movie.

[This message has been edited by Fergus (edited 05-13-2002).]

dellamorte dellamore

05-13-2002, 06:57 PM

Originally posted by Movie Hunter:
yeah i think that SPIDEY will kick AOTC ass...

anyway , here is a question about the movie.

---SPOILERS---

at the end of the movie , spidey keeps shooting his web and climbing everywhere right ?? ... or there is something after it ,coz the movie i downloaded stops at that , after he talks to MJ ... SO ??

---END SPOILERS---

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Yes,he swings around like mad,then the last shot he swings past a huge American flag,towards the screen,then blackness,then the credits roll.

Have to admit,i got a kick out of that little sequence,it made me want more.Maybe it was the scene that preceded it that made it more exciting,PP's farewel speach to MJ,it was such a strong contrast,it was exhilirating,then phhift!!!,Movie ends.In the sequel,more web slinging,less interpersonal relationships.No matter how much a fan i am,it just does'nt seem to have a place in this film.

Movie Hunter

05-14-2002, 08:05 AM

I loved the movie .. it was well paced and had great FX ....

My Rate : 9/10

GREAT MOVIE..

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Movie Hunter

05-14-2002, 04:03 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:

Yes,he swings around like mad,then the last shot he swings past a huge American flag,towards the screen,then blackness,then the credits roll.

Have to admit,i got a kick out of that little sequence,it made me want more.Maybe it was the scene that preceded it that made it more exciting,PP's farewel speach to MJ,it was such a strong contrast,it was exhilirating,then phhift!!!,Movie ends.In the sequel,more web slinging,less interpersonal relationships.No matter how much a fan i am,it just does'nt seem to have a place in this film.



i dont get it DUDE , do u like the movie or not ....u say that u like the last sequence .. I likr the whole movie SPECIALLY the festival and the last showdown between GG and SM ....

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

TheFrost

05-15-2002, 02:57 PM

My dad got a pirated copy of spider-man for my little brother whos nine (coming onto ten). But I didn't watch it, no sir. I'm waiting till it hits cinema's in June (it comes out in June over here in the UK)
Call me crazy but when I watch a film at the cinemas it's the atmosphere that gets me more than the film.
So I'm waiting till June 14th to watch this movie.

"That kids's weird" is what most of you are saying right now I bet, but I would respond by saying "Not crazy, just a guy who loves his movies"

Movie Hunter

05-15-2002, 04:21 PM

no u r not Weird ,BUT the copy i got is GREAT quality so i watched and this movie ROCKED..

i will see it again when it hits Theatres.

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

dellamorte dellamore

05-16-2002, 08:31 AM

Yes,i liked it,it's just that i thought it could have been better.

Crapstorm

05-16-2002, 09:52 AM

I disagree. Eye-candy movies like Spider-Man and The Mummy have an upper limit in terms of story quality. In order to make these kinds of films, writers and directors must sacrifice a great deal of believability and genuineness in order to create the visually stunning scenes. So, they use a lot of plot manipulation, stereotypical characters and minimal exposition so that we can get right to the FX, the fights, the chases, the wet T-shirts and the explosions.

In any motion picture that costs more than about $50m to make, visuals become the end-all-be-all. Eye candy is what brings common folk out in droves, not clever plot twists or deep characters. Therefore, these kinds of movies are inherently limited.

I think Spider-man is as good as it possibly could have been, given its goal which was to sell a fabulous number of tickets. Bottom line: the premise is a guy getting superpowers from a radioactive spider bite. Not exactly Dostoyevsky.

msquared

05-16-2002, 10:01 AM

Originally posted by Crapstorm:
I disagree. Eye-candy movies like Spider-Man and The Mummy have an upper limit in terms of story quality. In order to make these kinds of films, writers and directors must sacrifice a great deal of believability and genuineness in order to create the visually stunning scenes. So, they use a lot of plot manipulation, stereotypical characters and minimal exposition so that we can get right to the FX, the fights, the chases, the wet T-shirts and the explosions.

In any motion picture that costs more than about $50m to make, visuals become the end-all-be-all. Eye candy is what brings common folk out in droves, not clever plot twists or deep characters. Therefore, these kinds of movies are inherently limited.

I think Spider-man is as good as it possibly could have been, given its goal which was to sell a fabulous number of tickets. Bottom line: the premise is a guy getting superpowers from a radioactive spider bite. Not exactly Dostoyevsky.

I suspect you didn't actually watch Spider-Man. In the comics, the spider was radioactive. In the movie, the spider was genetically mutated. It was difficult to miss this detail, as the scientists spent several minutes explaining it.

TheFrost

05-16-2002, 02:32 PM

You won't believe this guys but...I got tempted. I just watched the Spider-Man film with my little brother on the pirated video....and it rocked!!!

I'm so glad I watched it now, what surprised me was the quality of the film. It the best quality I've ever seen on any pirated video...ever!!

William Dafoe stole the film playing the Green Goblin, he was brillaint a perfect cast.

10/10 in my books. Brilliant.

Movie Hunter

05-16-2002, 02:38 PM

i told u dude .. there is some great quality pirated movies OUT THERE ... anyway happy that u liked it http://www.joblo.com/ubb/wink.gif

i rate it 9/10

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

TheFrost

05-17-2002, 02:00 PM

Did anyone else spot former WWF (now known as WWE) wrestler "Macho Man" Randy Savage as Bonesaw?

"OOOOOOOOOH YEAH!!! Dig it!!"

Water Cyborg

05-17-2002, 08:23 PM

Did I notice Macho Man Randy Savage?

"Oooooooh-Yeeeeahhhhh"!

AND Bruce Campbell was the announcer at the wrestling match. Of all the people who worked with Raimi, you KNEW he would have a special place for Campbell.

And alas, Kirtsen Dunst in that wet top scene in the rain, oh how she has grown so lovely in only 20 short years. I love her, she is so beautiful and natural looking....

Guys and ghouls, all I have to say is that I loved this movie, and can only hope that the second one has all the ingredients that made the first one the deserving hit it has become. Long live Spider-Man!

Crapstorm

05-18-2002, 10:06 AM

Originally posted by Water Cyborg:
And alas, Kirtsen Dunst in that wet top scene in the rain, oh how she has grown so lovely in only 20 short years. I love her, she is so beautiful and natural looking....

Uh, excuse me? It's a well-known fact that Kisten got implants a year and a half ago.

screamfan

05-18-2002, 11:13 AM

where did you hear that?

Movie Hunter

05-18-2002, 12:49 PM

yeah .. i never heard about it neither and i dont think that it is TRUE .. i loved and diged her performence in the child role of "Interview with a vamoire" (One of my Favourites also) and in spider man...

Nuff Said !!

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

TheFrost

05-18-2002, 04:42 PM

AND Bruce Campbell was the announcer at the wrestling match. Of all the people who worked with Raimi, you KNEW he would have a special place for Campbell.

Yeah, I cheered out loud when I saw the man.
Bruce - "Hey, kid. What's your name?"

Peter - "The Human Spider"

Bruce - "What? The human spider? that the best you got? That sucks.

I loved that, he gives Peter his name. He's gotta bow down to his knees and beg for worthyness.

And...Macho Man Ohhhhhhhhhh Yeahhhhhhhh!!!!! He can act better than The Rock.

And Uncle Ben's death scene was...it really got me, guys. I almost cryed when the old guy died. That's the best death scene I've ever seen in any film. I loved this film.

Come on, Sam. Let's see a Spider-Man 2!!!!

Domestic Goddess

05-18-2002, 07:14 PM

Originally posted by Crapstorm:
Uh, excuse me? It's a well-known fact that Kisten got implants a year and a half ago.

Apparently, it isn't that well known after all. Perhaps you have her mixed up with someone else.

idealdiscountdude

05-18-2002, 07:58 PM

Originally posted by Crapstorm:
Uh, excuse me? It's a well-known fact that Kisten got implants a year and a half ago.

Kirsten Dunst actually does NOT have implants..........

Movie Hunter

05-19-2002, 12:50 AM

yeah i think that crapstorm got her mixed with someone else ...coz i have no girlfriends that have implants http://www.joblo.com/ubb/tongue.gif

M.H http://www.joblo.com/ubb/biggrin.gif

Common Sense Man

05-31-2002, 12:52 AM

Whew well I had to go a digging for this thread I guess the hype is cooling off.

Well I finally got my butt to the theater to see this movie and it wasn't too bad.

http://www.sf-fan.de/sf-film/kino/spiderman/spidey_tv.jpg

I must say I enjoyed it 7/10

Now to my thoughts on the flick.

I feel they where walking a tightrope between comic and reality and they could not decide which way to go. At times they tried to be serious and dark and at other times it was sheer goofiness, both worked but I do not think they worked well together.

But my main peeve about this flick the one that stands head and shoulders about the rest is this.

Where the hell did he get his suit!

He makes his own homemade super suit, which I thought was hilariously perfect, but then all of a sudden he is in full Spidey mode out of nowhere.

It was just too big of a plot hole to leave unanswered. As soon as I saw him in his homemade suit I was thinking to myself, it will be cool to see how he gets his new suit. I guess it was too hard to come up with a plausible way so they just ignored it. Bad film making in my opinion.

Since I am listing gripes I will continue then list what I liked about the movie.

These are simply things that nagged at the back of my mind while I watched.

He has small hairs that come out of his hands, and I assume feet, so he can climb. Well how does that work thru his shoes!

I can buy it when he is in his Spidey suit, the real one, as the fabric is skintight and he does not appear to be wearing big boots.

But every other time he climbed including the wrestling match he was in sneakers and he often wore heavy gloves especially in his homemade costume.

If they wouldn’t have tried to explain his climbing ability I would have simply bought the fact that it was one of his powers but to show you how he does it then to effectively negate that power but still be able to climb was a little strange.

And I know the whole organic web shooter was a hot issue, I did not really care one way or the other but I was looking forward to some explanation. But again just a quick look at his wrist then nothing more.

And what happens to his webs after he shoots them?

I also thought the Goblin costume was not up to snuff. The whole dramatic scene where The Goblin wants Spidey to team up with him (ala Return or the Jedi) could have been more dramatic if you could have seen his face, or at least his mouth.

The only times I bought The Goblin as a character was when his eye slits where open and you could see his mouth. I think it was a waste of talent to box him up like that.

They should have at least given him a mask that he could act thru.

And I also saw a couple of other movies peeking thru while I watched it. Which is not new to cinema but a couple of the scenes where exact rips.

The opening the shirt scene as he runs down the street. I was expecting to see a big “S” on his chest. They could have done that differently.

The confrontation scene between The Goblin and Spidey as I already mentioned was the same speech from ROTJ, join me or die, when the hero is incapacitated in some way, etc.

The balloon party balcony scene. Come on! That was an exact rip off of the all time best Comic made into a movie ever Batman. The balloons even looked almost exactly the same, then Goblin comes flying in on his glider just as Batman did in the Batwing, too similar, or should I say exact.

They’re where several Superman/Batman scenes that I saw but I guess that is only understandable.

Diving off a building to save the girl – Superman.

Flying with the girl – Superman.

So you are saying CSM you must have hated this flick, but no I really liked it.

I thought they did the transformation from ultra geek to sort of hip dude was cool, especially the subtle use of CGI to show him as a weakling before they showed him bulk up.

I loved the cameos, especially all the Raimi Alumni, Bruce, Ted, Lucy there appearances where priceless.

They way they incorporated all the sayings such as The Amazing Spider-Man etc was also very nice.

Toby did a great job acting; his emotions came thru very well that is part of the reason this worked as he acting really carried the part.

Jameson was fantastic, they should have done more with him or made some of the other characters more animated.

I didn’t really feel one way or the other about his buddy Osborne’s son. Just a so so performance.

Kirsten was okay nothing fantastic nothing terrible. I will not mention the one good scene, you already know about it.

A little too much angst and romance at the end. We already know the movie is over why sit thru ten minutes of boring I want you but I have to sacrifice my feelings to keep you safe, that could have been shortened.

And what is up with Spidey and the super strength. I know he is supposed to be strong but the whole holding the tramcar in one hand the girl in the other was a little too much to believe.

I must admit the CGI looked better in the movie than it did in the trailers, but I still thought he looked a little dorky when it was actually him just standing around, like before he goes back into the burning building. His costume may be cool but in bright daylight it still looks a little clownish, unlike Bats who kicks ass in any light.

But I think they succeeded with the CGI although I was fooled as I am sure many of you where into thinking that some of the earlier scenes where in full costume when they where actually in his homemade get up.

Will I see Spider-Man 2 of course but I hope they pick a style, quirky and funny or a little darker and deeper.

It did inspire me to go rent Batman and Batman Returns so it can’t be all-bad.

It is definitely worth seeing in the theaters especially for the effects, so if for some reason you have not go check it out. I will be watching it again on DVD when it comes out.

Out…………………………………..

dellamorte dellamore

05-31-2002, 10:45 AM

No offense,but i pointed out the similarities between the Batman/Superman Franchise and Sman,awhile ago.I'm beside myself that someone else agrees with me.I got lambasted for writing what i thought of this extremely overrated(i know some people hate that word),derivative,hackneyed,rushed through production effort.(i have to mention that i've seen it 4 times,and despite it's faults and obvious attempts at imitating other superhero films,i like it).

When the hype was at it's nadir,it was considered blasphemy to point out,in my opinion were the film's deficiencies,but i knew once everything settled down,people would realize,no it was'nt amazing,but it could have been.

I agree that his ability to stick to walls or almost any surface would have negated(should have been)if he wore gloves(the boots and sneakers too).They spent 100 mil plus on this,where was the consistency.

The unity festival,like you said,straight out of Batman,they just made it during the day.

The cable car scene,when SM has to choose between MJ and the persons in the cable car,Batman Forever.The scene were Kilmer has to choose between Chase Meridian and Robin.Surprised no one picked up on that one(or maybe they just don't want to give BF credit).The kidnapping of MJ was from BF too.

BF,i think was the first one to use a CGI creation for some of the action scenes,so SM lifted that aspect from the film too.

The web shooters .I guess they will explain it in the sequels,maybe.

How come sometimes things stuck to his hands and sometimes they did'nt.Did those miniature claws retract when not needed?

Peter Parker is motivated to fight crime by the murder of his Uncle.I don't even have to point out where that one came from.

MJ,with a couple of minimum wage jobs,finds an apartment in NYC almost immediately after gradution with little or no money.Maybe that Franco guy helped her out a little.(Anyone who has tried to get an apartment in NYC knows this is ludicrous.

When PP saves MJ from falling in the cafeteria,how come his hand does'nt stick to the lunch tray?

At the end of the film,at Osborns funeral(which i assume is only days after his demise),Peter Parker's face has miraculously healed from all the abuse he received at the hands of the Green Goblin.Do spiders have the ability to heal faster tthan other insects or mammals or whatever.

The boom cuts the frame on at least three occasions(one i remember distincly is when PP tries to sell pix of SM to JJJ).Again 100 mil,and you can't even keep the boom out of the frame?

Music sounds eerily familiar to Planet of Apes 2001,and some others too,but mainly that one.

When he swings low barely above traffic,oddly rubberneckers don't cause any accidents.I don't know,but if i was driving in the city and i saw something swing above my car,i would probably hit the car in front of me.

When he chased the man who killed his uncle,and he jumps on the car,should'nt his spider sense have told him to jump off the car before the guy started shooting?I know,it's more dramatic that way.

The way Dafoe played the villanous side of his character was a carbon copy of the Joker from Batman.I expected him to say this town needs an enema.Or maybe even Two Fac from Batman Forever,that whole dual personality bit.

Oscorp just a ripoff of Axis Chemicals,it even looks close to what that factory/Chemical plant did in Batman.

When SM yells he sounds like Keanu Reeves in Speed.

Where was PP getting money for everyday expenses?He was'nt getting paid too much for his freelance photography.

How come when PP tried to contact MJ to warn her about GG,he only called her at home.Come on now,even preteens have beepers and digital cellular phones.

That little segway when SM goes around fighting crime was straight out of the first Superman film.

If GG has a heightened sense of awareness and superhuman abilities(sight,sound,strength),how come when PP is hanging on the ceiling to avoid detection by Osborne,he can't smell him.After all he was all sweaty after just recently fighting crime.

I'm through for now,but for me SM works as an update of my favorite superhero/comic book action heroes,but it owes it's existence to them,the cinematic version that is.

Like i said,i definitely like it,but i also realize where it came from.

xxxx19

05-31-2002, 03:50 PM

Dellamorte there are more holes in your observations than in the whole Spiderman movie.It was a good movie,nothing more,nothing less

I'm not gonna go over your list one by one because that would take me all day.

 I agree that his ability to stick to walls or almost any surface would have negated(should have been)if he wore gloves(the boots and sneakers too).They spent 100 mil plus on this,where was the consistency.
His gloves and boots looked like they were made from a latex-like material and we could assume that's how those little claws could rise up through his suit.

The unity festival,like you said,straight out of Batman,they just made it during the day {/QUOTE]

So the whole idea of a villian attacking large crowds of people like at a parade was invented by the Batman movie? While the unity festival wasn't anything original, it's an easy way to gather a large group of kids and adult in one place.

[QUOTE] The cable car scene,when SM has to choose between MJ and the persons in the cable car,Batman Forever.The scene were Kilmer has to choose between Chase Meridian and Robin.Surprised no one picked up on that one(or maybe they just don't want to give BF credit).The kidnapping of MJ was from BF too.
The cable car scene was taken from a comic book over 30 years ago,not some Batman movie from 5 years ago.
And once again with the kidnapping of MJ you think the idea of the villan kidnapping was somehow invented by Batman Forver?

 Peter Parker is motivated to fight crime by the murder of his Uncle.I don't even have to point out where that one came from 
What are you trying to imply here?It came straight from the Spiderman comic book from the 1960's.

The web shooters .I guess they will explain it in the sequels,maybe

Whats to explain? He shoots the webs from his wrists.No need to explain any web shooters since there aren't any

At the end of the film,at Osborns funeral(which i assume is only days after his demise),Peter Parker's face has miraculously healed from all the abuse he received at the hands of the Green Goblin.Do spiders have the ability to heal faster tthan other insects or mammals or whatever.
I assume like most funerals it took place about a week after Osbourne died.That should have been plenty of time for his face to heal

When he swings low barely above traffic,oddly rubberneckers don't cause any accidents.I don't know,but if i was driving in the city and i saw something swing above my car,i would probably hit the car in front of me.
He was coming from behind the traffic,at night,swinging above the cars.I don't know about you but when I drive I don't look out my window for things above my car.

When he chased the man who killed his uncle,and he jumps on the car,should'nt his spider sense have told him to jump off the car before the guy started shooting?I know,it's more dramatic that way.
Spider sense doesn't work like that.Had he been just walking down the street as Peter Parker and someone was trying to shoot him,then his Spidey sense would go off.

The way Dafoe played the villanous side of his character was a carbon copy of the Joker from Batman.I expected him to say this town needs an enema.Or maybe even Two Fac from Batman Forever,that whole dual personality bit.
I didn't pick up on this at all.If anything I thought Dafoe was a much better villian, because he wasn't deformed on the outside like the Joker,but rather they showed him and his struggle with his inner evil side.

Oscorp just a ripoff of Axis Chemicals,it even looks close to what that factory/Chemical plant did in Batman.
It's a factory what do you want it to look like?
How come when PP tried to contact MJ to warn her about GG,he only called her at home.Come on now,even preteens have beepers and digital cellular phones.
 MJ came from a very poor family.She herself was poor so it's easy to assume she couldn't afford one.

That little segway when SM goes around fighting crime was straight out of the first Superman film.
Yes Dellamorte beacuse we all know the first time we ever saw a segway with a superhero fighting villians was Superman right?

If GG has a heightened sense of awareness and superhuman abilities(sight,sound,strength),how come when PP is hanging on the ceiling to avoid detection by Osborne,he can't smell him.After all he was all sweaty after just recently fighting crime.
GreenGoblin only had super strength.Not sure where you thought he had some sort of heightened sense of awareness and/or super hearing/sight

[This message has been edited by xxxx19 (edited 05-31-2002).]

DaMovieMan

05-31-2002, 04:23 PM

Yeah xxxx19 hit the spot with some of your vague comments.
Here's a little to add on that:

The music sounded similar tp Planet of The Apes probably coz it was the same composer..Danny Elfman.

MJ didnt have a cellular phone or beeper coz she wasn't rich. Thus her appartment must have been paid by her boyfriend Harry.

You cannot say that CGI was not needed in this film.

In the beginning why things didnt stick to Parkers hand (like the tray) is coz he got his powers just days before and couldnt control them (thus the pencil sticking to his hand) ... later he controlled it.

We dont know when the funeral was held so we dont know how much time Parker's face had to heel. Plus he wasn't that bruised and scratched coz he had his mask to save him.

He was too fast for 'rubbernecks' to even notice him. Thats the beauty of SM.

He didnt really know how to control his spider sense when the man started shooting.

Dafoe was perfect (his character was, then, like the Joker or Two Face) and he was an insace scitsophrenic (sp?) so we dont know when he has his powers to smell or whatever.

What everyday expences??? He had enogh money from freelance photography and he lived with Harry.

The 'little segway' of fighting crime is what every superhero does. Coz 'with great power comes great responcibility'

DaMovieMan

msquared

05-31-2002, 04:33 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
I got lambasted for writing what i thought of this extremely overrated(i know some people hate that word),derivative,hackneyed,rushed through production effort.

When the hype was at it's nadir,it was considered blasphemy to point out,in my opinion were the film's deficiencies,but i knew once everything settled down,people would realize,no it was'nt amazing,but it could have been.


Dellamore, we weren't lambasting you for disliking Spider-Man. We were lambasting you because you were insulting fans of the movie, and everytime someone said something good about it, you responded with more criticisms, some of them quite inaccurate. When you go back and look through the thread, you'll notice that several people criticized the movie, but they didn't get blasted for it because they weren't rude about it.

Some of the things you stated in your last comment are also inaccurate. I'll mention a few of them.

You wondered why Osbourne didn't notice Spidey on the ceiling with his super senses. At no point in the movie does it say he has super senses.

You indicated it was foolish that Peter only called MJ's apartment, as almost everyone has cell phones. Perhaps, but there was no need for him to call the cell, as from the first call he already knew GG had Mary Jane.

You said there is no way Peter could have supported himself on a freelance photographer's earnings. True, but it clearly states at one point that he was just fired at his last job, and was going to look for another. So he had more than one source of income. Not to mention his roommate was rich, and easily able to take up the slack.

dellamorte dellamore

05-31-2002, 06:55 PM

You know what really annoys me is that noone,except for a few shmoes here and there,Common Sense Man in particular,is willing to point out how much this film ripped off other recent superhero offerings.

You cite the comic book when it's suits your needs.I'm talking about the actual cinematic version here,forget about the comic book,what kind of an excuse is that for hacking another film.Spiderman was created in the 60's,Batman was created in the 30's,so you tell me who ripped off who,if you want to use the comic book as justification.

Latex,what the heck,that's weak as hell,come up with a better one.I guess people are willing to overlook inconsisties,the studio count on that,it's more convenient than actually putting in some effort and not insulting the audience.

The cable car seen,now that one gets me pissed as all hell.If you don't agree that the majority of that scene was ripped from Batman Forever,then it's hopeless.It was so blatant,making a choice between his friend and a bunch of strangers in a cable car.And of course he had to save both just like Batman in Batman Forever.

If you remember,when the drop of blood hits the floor Dafoe turns around,implying he heard it.

A cut on the face healls in one week?(i doubt anyone waits that long to bury someone,it's usually within a couple of days),regardless there would have been scars,an inconsistency to be sure.But it's Hollywood,anything goes.

Did his pincer things retract when not in use,i still don't get that the whole wall crawling thing.

Dafoe would have been lost if he did'nt already have a template courtesy of Tommy Lee Jones and Nicholson.

Dunst adding nothing.I know she was a part of the comic book,but in the film she was purposeless.Could have left her out,and it would'nt have made a difference.Well maybe with the box offic,because you have to have the token love interest.She really did look stoned most of the movie.Maybe she was.

Franco could'nt have been more non descript if he walked around with a bag over his head.Drink a cup of coffee or something,i felt like the guy was ready to fall asleep any minute.

For some reason Raimi is getting a pass on this one,a large box office will do that.But i think he knows.like Darkman before this,he hacked away every chance he got and he still came out smelling like roses.

Who cares about the top five or 200 highest grossing films of all time,there are some of them truly blew big time,so i would'nt consider it an reliable indicator of quality or even originality:

Titanic(one boring as hell film with an obnoxious actor in the lead)
Harry Potter(if i was 10 years old it would have been cool,but it just bored me with it's terrible fx and insufferable 3 main characters)
Gump( i can't explain that one,that one truly sucked hard)
Phantom Menace(godawful dreck)
Lion King(Terri Bull)
Independence Day(sleep inducing dreck)
Shreck(wanted to destroy the rental i watched from Blockbuster)

[This message has been edited by dellamorte dellamore (edited 05-31-2002).]

msquared

05-31-2002, 07:36 PM

Dellamore, there are many movies that rip off others, and many more filled with inconcistincies. Why aren't you campaigning against them?

Once again I ask, why do you seem so driven to spoil others enjoyment of Spider-Man? We aren't condemning the movies you claim as superior to this one, is it too much to ask that you show us the same courtesy?

chazsp

05-31-2002, 08:13 PM

Spiderman, Spiderman, oh....Spiderman. I was delighted to see the much anticipated movie. The acting was good, the dialogue was ok, and I was blown away by the incredible and very artistic computer graphics. This also my only problem with the movie: Too much computer graphics. I understand that this is a high tech movie and none of the stunts are humanly possible, but I am a true fan of non-digital films (I DO like some digital films, however....when done properly). Also, Tobey Maguire was a perfect cast, and did a tremendous job in this difficult role.
All-in-all, this movie was good. I would (and have) suggest this film to most all movie-goers.
-chaz

Common Sense Man

05-31-2002, 08:32 PM

Yo DD thanks for taking the heat!

http://www.spidermantvseries.com/Multimedia/SpideyPIC13.jpg

Hey I did not have as many problems with the every day living of the characters that is just background crap.

I could care less if MJ has a cell phone of beeper or where she get her money to live, maybe she hooks.

And I did assume that PP could retract his little gripping hairs. I mean it would be stupid to have them out all the time.

But I do think it is valid that when he wears gloves and sneakers he should not be able to climb.

In his spidey suit sure as the thing is skin tight, it even shows him removing his shoes in one scene.

So to me that was a flaw that could have been dealt with rather well, a nice comic aspect that he must take his shoes off to climb when not in uniform.

And of course the where did he get his new suit thing still tops my list of unanswered questions.

Did I think Osborne should have sensed him, well that is up for grabs, yes it did appear he heard the blood drop but at least to me it did not appear as if he had control over when he was GG and when he was Osborne.

Clearly at the beginnig he has no memory of when he becomes GG.

Thanks for bringing up the Batman Forever Parallel it is rather similar, I guess I just blotted out that movie as after Batman Returns the series tanked.

Now I do agree there is a strong similarity to the Joker or other split personality characters but they are in all sorts of movies, it is more a type of charater than a direct rip. I guess it just seems more like a rip as this is a superhero movie and so was Batman.

I did not even notice that his face was clear at the funeral. I cannot honestly say I remember seeing him with cuts on his face during the GG fight. But I can say he had a bloody nose and lip so he should have been bruised.

I am not Spidey geek so I do not know his powers that well, does he have regenerative powers? If not he should have at least been bruised.

Oh I also loved that they nutted the GG when they offed him. Ouch what a way to go.

And of course the whole being framed for murder is nothing new in the superhero genre but I guess that was straight from the comic so I do not have a problem with it.

You have to remember that they have to stick to the comic on some points or the fans would hate it. And as we all know the comics of the 50's and 60's where not all that when it came to deep story or intracate plots.

I think they are off to a good start, hey remember The Punisher, and Captain America! Eeeeewwwh!

So hopefully the next time round they will polish up the rough bits and try to decide if they want to make a semi serious comedy or a gritty action flick. I fear the first as they will need to stay within the PG-13 rating.

Again I liked this flick but I can see where it could have gone, and I guess that is my problem to deal with.

Out............................

xxxx19

05-31-2002, 09:36 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
You know what really annoys me is that noone,except for a few shmoes here and there,Common Sense Man in particular,is willing to point out how much this film ripped off other recent superhero offerings.

You cite the comic book when it's suits your needs.I'm talking about the actual cinematic version here,forget about the comic book,what kind of an excuse is that for hacking another film.Spiderman was created in the 60's,Batman was created in the 30's,so you tell me who ripped off who,if you want to use the comic book as justification.

[This message has been edited by dellamorte dellamore (edited 05-31-2002).]

This is the last I'm gonna post on the subject because it's clear this is going nowhere.

I'm going to ask this as simple as i can.

How is it "hacking another movie" if the actual scene is taken exactly from the comic book issue from the 70's?

The scene on top of the Brooklyn bridge took place from an issue in the 70's,so unless they went back in time,I could make the arguement that Batman Forever "borrowed" the idea from Spiderman.

As must as you would like to believe that Spiderman is somehow Batman in a spidersuit,it's not.

You think any of these movies (Superman,Batman,Spiderman)are somehow groundbreaking or that they don't borrow from other movies? The hero saving the girl from a villian is a story as old as written language.

If you dislike the movie,dislike it,it's your opinion.But please don't try to make silly arguements implying that a comic book from 30 years ago somehow copied a movie from 5 years.

dellamorte dellamore

06-01-2002, 07:54 AM

I know i went a little bonkers,and there is no need for that type of tomfoolery.

So,i'll end with this in my opinion(the cinematic creation,not the comic book),borrowed heavily from other films.There where also some inconsisties and illogical plot poits,as i already pointed out.With some more work and imagination this could have been terrific,but as aresult of it's haphazard construction,i wouls say it was very good,rising to great in some instances,and maybe even amazing in some others.

I'm only pissed because it could have been so much more,and the fact that it's cleaning up at the box office will only inspire the filmmakers to medocrity,not motivate them to improve the mistakes in the sequel.

The best thing that could have happened would've been a so so box office take(still in the black of course but not record breaking),then maybe the quality would have been a little higher in the sequel.Now there is no reason for them to tinker,this one worked financially.

Yes i like it,that's the only reason i'm passionate about it.

adamjohnson

06-02-2002, 12:41 AM

im gonna do something i never dreamed of doing. agree with dellamorte. aghhh! ok il agree there is quite striking resemblence between BF and the bridge scene. HOWEVER! i certainly dont think he ripped offthat movie, cuz frankly who would want to rip off that shit. more than likely its entirly a coincidence. especailly since that plot line, the impossible decision of the hero, is as old as the comics themselves. '

and sticking through his gloves. the hands and feet of his costume arevery thiin making it able to stick through it.

and his strength. once not too long ago SM held up the entire daily bugle building, so a tram full of people shouldnt be a problem.

and he made his costume. nuff said. you dont really need an explaination since you cant exatly buy tht thiung off the rack so you know he must have made it.

and dellamorte you are an encredible observationist. they have jobs in movies for people like u. i forget what its called but is like a script consistency-er guy. if someone has a limp in one scene you have to be sure to tell everyone that he always has that limp. that sort of thig. go for it.
and i especially like the very last line you said. something about your passio for the movie. bt i think you would enjoy it more, especially since you actually did like the movie, if you wouldnt be so critical of it. if you make a movie b critical. but just let the movie b waht it is and stop complaining you cant do anything baout it now, especailyl talking to us. call up sam and tell his ass, maybe he'll give you a medal or something. if you dont analyze, and just like it for what it is and ot what it isnt i think it would be a beter experience for you.

fianlly out.

Eliar Swiftfire

06-02-2002, 03:50 AM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
Yes i like it,that's the only reason i'm passionate about it.

Huh? You liked Spider-man? Thats the most surprising thing ive read in this thread. (yeah.... im a lurker... sue me)

Your messages here really made everyone thought that you are the biggest spidey hater in the world. And there were moments when i wanted to speak out...

Whatever it is, I agree with you, I am afraidthat the sequel will suck too. What if the bad guy in the sequel is that lame cheesy Doctor Octopus... uh oh.

dellamorte dellamore

06-02-2002, 07:46 AM

Uh oh,all the Doc Oc fans are going to go bonkers now.I did'nt say it,he did.

I have to admit,i did'nt notice all of those things,especially the one about the gloves,that one i read in a review,but it did make sense.

The person you're reffering too that is in charge of inconsistency control,i think is a continuity expert.They are in charge of ensuring the script,storyboards,and actual rough cut all remain consistent throughout.Like you said,the limp.If actor A limps in scene 10,considering the severity of the injury and how much time has passed until he/she is seen again,they should limp the next scene they are in.Pay attention,in some films,the actor will limp with his right leg,then mysteriously limp with the left in the next scene.That is the responsibility of the script supervisor and the person's in charge of continuity to avoid mistakes like that.

I already pointed out the lack of cuts or bruises on PP face at the funeral.That's one example.

You shmoes should know by now,i don't spend this much time complaining about a film,unless i like it.If i did'nt like something i might post a couple of wise ass remarks about and then just let it fade from memory.This one i kept on coming back for more.You know like those guys who complain about their wives or girlfriends or jobs,but in the end they come crawling back to them.

I used a pun,oh how funny.

mattjk_17

06-02-2002, 11:18 AM

I saw Spider-Man a few weeks back when a friend lent me a pirate copy on video (brilliant quality!). My expectations were definitely met, the movie was absolutely stunning! All these months of waiting have definitely been worth it. This goes down as one of the best movies I have seen in a while.

I thought that all the performances were great, especially J.K Simmons as J.J. Jameson. Dafoe was brilliant as Osborn/Goblin, Maguire and Dunst also pulled off fine performances as Parker/Spidey and MJ.

All I can say is bring on Spidey 2!

thingsgoinon

06-14-2002, 01:40 AM

Backround:

Being a child who grew up in the mid and late 70's, I was exposed not only to the great flicks of the time, but to all the past...they used to show sci-fi/horror/fantasy movies ALL the time on shows like Chiller and Dr Shock...and thanx to the then upstart HBO, I got to see alot of the other classics of the time....so I was exposed to a wide variety of cinema.

Even tho there have been some great films out of the past decade, I found most movies I looked forward to really let me down. The spirit was gone and corporation had taken over. Thus I stopped going to movies in theatre...I mostly waited for vid.....I can do without the "theatrical expierience" as long as the movie is well done, but still there's nothing like said expierience. I missed it. I have seen three movies in the theatre in the last few years : Blair Witch, Green Mile, and Fellowship of the Ring. Because my anticipation couldn't keep me away.

None of these films dissapointed, but still, none made me ,movie freak that I am, want to begin the theatre expierience I so enjoyed in my youth.

I didn't want to see Spider-Man. I love the Super-hero, he's the best...but I was just to afraid I was gonna be let down by yet another style over substance,fake CGI action scene after pointless action scene yet again.

Tonite I went...I was feeling in the mood, I asked my dad wich should I go see Spider-Man or Attack of the Clones (he saw them both)...he said Spider-Man. So I went.

I HAVE JUST SEEN WHAT MAY BE THE MOST PERFECT MOVIE I HAVE EVER SEEN IN MY LIFE!

What can I say....an action movie, with REAL emotion, REAL actors playing REAL scenes....I CARED about these ppl, even Osbourne....I felt their pain.....I felt their joy,...I felt their anger.

The action was not overdone, but when it was there it was picture perfect, and unlike what I led myself to believe, the most real looking CGI I have ever seen...EVER ...(only one SMALL scene gave me a prob (small SPOILER)..when he was dodging the flying razor thingys in the burning building)...SMALL prob....small enuff to get drawn right back into the movie without skipping a beat....

This has immidiately jumped to my all time fav list. I will see this again. I have the magic back...I think I will start theatre going again...

Thank you Sam Raimi. Thank you John Dykstra. Thank you Toby McGuire, Willem DeFoe,Kirsten Dunst, Cliff Robertson and the rest. Thank you. You made a bitter ,cynical man believe again.

Thank You.

PS: PLEASE Hollywood do not mess up this franchise.

[This message has been edited by thingsgoinon (edited 06-14-2002).]

dellamorte dellamore

06-14-2002, 09:23 AM

I have to disagree with you about Blair Witch.That film singlehandedly revitalized my love for cinmema(Low Budget Independent in general),and LOTR had the same effect with regards to major studio productions.Yes,i thought SM was great,but these are the 2 films that renewed my faith in my adult years.

The strong sense of Independent spirit behind Blair Witch,and the undeniable infectious,inspired,passion behind LOTR,are what cinema is all about.

The only reason i don't feel SM has this same spirit is because i still feel it derived a number of elements from other succesful superhero franchises.

BakeTheMooCow

06-14-2002, 09:45 AM

I know I'm a little late, but I saw Spiderman in the theater today and I really liked it. Its been playing in mind from the moment I left the theater and I think I'll buy the DVD when it comes out.

I can't think of a fault in this movie. It was one of the rare action films that I didn't want to end.

My rating : 10/10

Also, its a great family movie. I'm really looking forward to the sequel.

thingsgoinon

06-14-2002, 12:50 PM

Originally posted by dellamorte dellamore:
I have to disagree with you about Blair Witch.That film singlehandedly revitalized my love for cinmema(Low Budget Independent in general),and LOTR had the same effect with regards to major studio productions.Yes,i thought SM was great,but these are the 2 films that renewed my faith in my adult years.

The strong sense of Independent spirit behind Blair Witch,and the undeniable infectious,inspired,passion behind LOTR,are what cinema is all about.

The only reason i don't feel SM has this same spirit is because i still feel it derived a number of elements from other succesful superhero franchises.

Oh absolutely, I agree 100 percent, Blair and Lord are amazing films, that also made be breathe a sigh of relief that great mainstream films were still possible. I never had a doubt with independants, cuz alot of my fav films are. As I said I was not let down a bit...but still I never got the mutual audience "vibe" as I had felt all those years b4 (at least in the crowds I was in).....Spider-Man was the first movie I've seen in YEARS that you could feel that "pump fist in the air, cheer out loud" auora....and I actually feel like going back to the movies again....it made me feel alive again...I know thats dramatic, I was SO pumped after seeeing it I had to go to three bars just to rant about it to everyone...HAD to...

And yeah, it did borrow elements from other super-hero films, but don't they all really? It was the script and the earnestness of the actors/actresses that really floored me...I BELIEVED these ppl, and the action scenes were so well done and brutal and surprising in some scenes, and the CGI was outstanding.... I BELIEVED this stuff was happening...it's been a long time an action film has been able to do that for me.

dellamorte dellamore

06-14-2002, 09:05 PM

If i said the same things i do here in a bar setting,let's put it this way,there's a chance i would be on the Tyson end of a Lennox Lewis dismantling.

It's great that SM revitalized your faith in big budget studio efforts,i just did'nt take to it as much as you did.There was so much more going on in the LOTR universe,that 20 years from now,i'll probably still be amazed at it.Much like Star Wars.I've seen SM at least 5 times already,and even though i enjoy it every time,somehow there is just something missing.But i'll say it again,with all the cynical,men are no good offerings lately(Panic Room anyone),it's nice to see one that celebrates men's inherent sense of justice and responsibility.Maguires character exhibited class,respect,intelligence,honor,and compassion(Character traits Elijah Woods' character exhibited in LOTR),and that's a great thing,especially for the younger set,or even for the older set that still haven't grown up.

I don't know how TM is in real life but at least his character in SM was someone to celebrate,not loathe.

Fettdog

06-15-2002, 10:59 AM

Well, after finally seeing Spidery (opened here in the UK last night) I can now pass judgement......

Spider-Man is one of the best films I have seen for a long, long time!

First up, I'm a long-time Spidey reader, having read the comics for the last 15 years, and being familiar with almost all of his history, but that doesn't make me a blinkered fan-boy by a long shot. Remember, we had a couple of Spidey TV movies in the 70s, as well as a series, and they were bloody awful (stand up Nicholas Hammond!)

This film, though, has captured the very essence of what Spidey is all about - it's not about Spidey at all, it's always been about Peter Parker and his interactions with the supporting cast.

Tobey Maguire was perfect as Peter Parker - a bit nerdy, but ultimately an 'every-guy' - we all know what he's going through 'cause we've all been there! Girl troubles, money troubles etc.., just part of everyday life, especially as a teenager.

Kirsen Dunst was as close to MJ as I could have imagined, perfectly playing both sides of the role - the outgoing fun-loving MJ that she shows to the world, and the private, abused MJ that comes from a broken home (check your comics for the full story!)

Willem Defoe captured Norman Osborn fantastically, playing the schizophrenia just the right side of camp (as in the comics). Like a lot of fans, when I initially saw the Goblin costume I thought it looked ridiculous, but having seen it in action now, I think they made the right choice for translating it from the comic page to the 'real world' of the big screen, and the fact that you could see his eyes and mouth in a lot of the shots more than made up for the ability of the mask to 'move' in the comics. The glider, and the way he moved with it was exactly as I always imagined it would be from the comics.

Harry was slightly disappointing, but only from a comics perspective - in the comics Ialways got the impression that Harry was a little less intense and a bit more 'happy-go-lucky' to the outside world, although the 'private' side of Harry was played to (comics) perfection, setting up Harry's jealously of his father's affection towards Peter Parker, and then his hatred of Spider-man. (And of course, his eventual taking up of the Goblin mantle, which will probaly happen in a sequel at some stage - hopefully!)

It was nice to see so many of the comic's supporting characters appear, in one way or another. We got Flash Thompson (who was Spidey's biggest fan but hated PP with a vengeance), a mention of Dr Curt Connors (who becomes the Lizard), J Jonah Jameson (who could have just stepped straight from the pages of the comic - he was absolutely perfect!), Mendel Strom (who in the comics has played a far greater supporting role to Norman Osborn over the years than afforded him in the film, but it was great to see him anyway), and even Betty Brant (who although not mentioned by name, was so obviously implied by the actress playing JJJ's secretary - I even thought she might introduce herself as such when PP introduces himself to her!)

Aunt May and Uncle Ben were spot on from the comics.

Sam Raimi promised to stay faithful to the comics, and the couple of major deviations aside (i.e. the GM spider, which makes sense, the organic webshooters (which even Stan Lee approves of!), and his first love being MJ instead of Gwen Stacy) he has delivered. The wresting/robber scenario was dead on to the comics, as was the battle atop the Brooklyn Bridge, even down to the choice between the cable car and MJ (Gwen), and the Goblin's ultimate demise at the hands of his own glider (although those who have followed the comics know the story didn't end there......)

As a fan though, the one scene that made me smile was when the Goblin lassooed Peter and hauled him into the air, perfectly echoing one of the greatest Spidey covers ever! (Those of who who have read them will know exactly what I mean, those who haven't won't have a clue!)

OK, I've probably said enough - I loved it, I appreciate that some of you don't (though I must admit DD seems hell-bent on rubbishing every little mistake - it's a movie for God's sake - I'm sure we could pull Batman Forever apart of the seams if we could be bothered, but what's the point? I enjoyed BF, but it's just a movie!!), and I will be seeing it again!

Sam, if you ever get to read this - there's one very happy, and very satisfied fan typing this message! Roll on Spider-Man 2!

[This message has been edited by Fettdog (edited 06-15-2002).]