Spiderman 3

Director: Sam Raimi

Starring: Tobey Maguire, Kirsten Dunst, James Franco, Topher Grace

In this third instalment of Sam Raimi’s hugely successful Spiderman trilogy we join Peter Parker (Maguire), happily in love with Mary Jane Watson (Dunst) and becoming slightly arrogant as New York embraces Spiderman’s good deeds. Yet the peace is soon interrupted as Spiderman comes face to face with three villains; the New Goblin, Sandman and Venom. At the same time Peter struggles with his personal life as Mary Jane finds it hard to accept Spiderman’s fame and Peter’s sudden sleazebag attitude. He also faces losing his job, as new photographer on the block, Eddie Brock (Grace), tries to sell Spidey photos at the Daily Bugle. On top of these threats, Spiderman must battle with the villain inside himself as an unearthly black material takes over his suit and brings out the dark side of his personality. Can he survive all these pressures?

As you can see, Spiderman 3 is jam packed with new plots and characters, but don’t be fooled into thinking that this means the trilogy is rounded off poorly. Characters such as the Sandman cause Peter to readdress problems stemming from the first movie, and bring the films together well. Raimi’s determination to create a back story for each of Spiderman’s nemeses pays off, as the audience becomes emotionally involved with all the characters. The creation of both the Sandman and Venom are memorable moments and mix amazing special effects with fantastic dramatic acting. James Franco shines as the villainous Harry Osborn, who torments Parker emotionally and physically. Maguire also shows off his fun side and is not afraid to make a fool of himself as he tries to flirt with women and dance through the streets and a jazz club.

Of course the special effects are reason enough to see Spiderman 3. From amazing sand storms to the awe-inspiring final showdown, the action here is stylish, intense and well-choreographed. Amidst all the earnest story, Spiderman 3 also leaves time for humour with the editor of the Daily Bugle (J. Jonah Jameson), and a French waiter (Bruce Campbell) stealing the limelight for a few unforgettable minutes.

Spiderman 3 further proves that comic-book movies can be smart, complex and engaging. This movie goes highly recommended to the fans of the previous two Spiderman films, or anyone wanting to see a brilliant balance of heart-pumping action sequences and well-written drama.

Julia Huntenburg