In this second installment of the Spider-Man series, we are treated to the origin of the legendary Spidey foe, Otto Octavius. He is a physicist that has created four Artificially Intelligent limbs to help him control an experiment in which he has created fusion. When the experiment goes awry, they take on a life of their own, and rather than Dr. Octavius controlling the limbs, they drive him insane and begin to control him. As he rampages (as super-villains are wont to do) he is dubbed “Dr. Octopus” by the Daily Bugle and a legend is born. Spider-Man once again has to swing in to action to save New York.

Doc Ock’s origin was the only part of the film that really bothered me. I can handle just about anything, as long as it comes with a good explanation. I can believe in a kid with spider powers – he got bitten by a spider with enhanced DNA. Doc Ock’s origin was so sketchy, it just left me scratching my head…

Otherwise, Spider-Man 2 is an extremely enjoyable film. It outshines the first, which was a pretty good film on its own. I like how the Spider-Man movies get back to the roots of the character – Peter Parker is a real person with real problems – he’s somebody we can relate to. Of course, Kirsten Dunst makes an excellent Mary Jane Watson, and that doesn’t hurt things at all.

			See it if you like action movies and comic book films. Don't see it if you don't like action movies or comic book films.

© 2004 Jim Manchester