Monday, July 9, 2012

Rebooting 'The Amazing Spiderman'

Spiderman does it again!

In the rebooted version of the human arachnid, ‘The Amazing Spiderman’ cost US$215 million, and redressed and addressed in fresh ways. It is presented in digitalised and in 3D versions with a brand-new cast. Like The Matrix Trilogy that came reloaded and unloaded, this version is rebooted and re-imagined, to varying results and responses. Either the new version pales against the original, or or exceeds it. In recent years, the success with the re-invention of Spiderman, Superman and Ironman bear testament to successful franchises.

The salient changes to Spidey is his costume, and originations; mainly his web-slinging comes in the form of a wrist-wrapped device and genetically-modified protein that is stronger than steel cables. A star-studded ensemble cast fills the non-CGI segments of the 135-minute film. Spoiler Alert: Stay on during the end-credits where there is suggestion of a sequel. Peter Parker, who underwent a tough childhood is transmogrified into the science freak he is known for, harboring dark and foreboding secrets, amazing superhuman powers, and huge responsibilities to bear. Superheroes, appear to be unhappy characters who cannot get close to others (for fear of violent repercussions), and reluctant heroes with a gift/curse. They have to surrender to their good side and help others, or succumb to their dark side and become criminals. Use your power for good, or evil. 

There is much to learn from animated series, previously known as cartoons in a former-era. Comic-books filled the void of hope during major world events and conflicts. Director, Night Shyamalan did a great job with ‘Unbreakable’ where the world’s most fragile man meets the world’s most indestructible person. The plot is plausible, where the polarity of 'opposites' means the yin and yang of human character. When science meets fantasy, a new genre is born which invites many interesting questions regarding our status as humankind.

How will you reboot yourself? Two legs good, four sticky limbs better.

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