spiderman 2

Wow. I will pay it this compliment: Spiderman 2 has some of the most thrilling, innovative and satisfying action sequences since The Matrix, and it's easily the best superhero movie since Batman Returns.

I was not a big fan of the first one. It wasn't just the groan-inducing cheesy dialogue, either. The first half of the first Spiderman was quirky and enjoyable, but the second half quickly turned into a typical action movie on autopilot. Spiderman 2, however, is thoughtful and surprising all the way through, and director Sam Raimi now finally is no longer shy about letting his quirky side out. The film is littered with bizarre moments of humor, and Raimi shows off his horror roots in a fantastic hospital scene.

Yes, the film contains too much pop-psychology and trashy science for its own good. But it still serves to build an emotional foundation, and one that is not as self-important and pompous as that of The Hulk. And, damn it, it works, and I do sympathize with Peter Parker, both of us being burdened with the task of saving the world and looking good while doing it.

It's true. I'm Batman.

Best of 2004:
1. Eternal Sunshine
2. Dogville
3. Spiderman 2
4. Kill Bill: Volume 2
5. Fahrenheit 9/11
6. Shrek 2