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Spider-Man (2002)
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Thanks in part to legal battles, Marvel Comics' much-loved superhero took his time to reach the big screen. This fantasy action adventure was initially intended as a James Cameron vehicle, but the project finally went to Darkman director — and self-confessed Spider-Man fan — Sam Raimi. His vision sticks close to the character's comic-book roots with the creation of a colourful, visually striking frolic that's bubbling with energy and gleefully tongue-in-cheek, yet edged with pathos. Lead actor Tobey Maguire is unusual but inspired casting, exuding boy-next-door charm as the clandestine teen avenger (Kirsten Dunst is good, too, as love interest Mary Jane Watson). Indeed, it's Maguire's intense likeability that helps paper over potential weaknesses such as the odd disappointing set piece. As for the all-important villain, Willem Dafoe not only looks the part as the Green Goblin — equalling Jack Nicholson's Joker — he brings some welcome gravitas to an already credible venture. Spider-Man is an effortless, intelligent entertainment, and a fabulous, fun-filled start to the hugely lucrative franchise. SF
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Tell us what you think
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Running time
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116min
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Country of origin
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US
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Genre
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Fantasy Action Adventure
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Original language
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English
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Screenplay
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David Koepp, from the comic books Amazing Fantasy / The Amazing Spider-Man by Stan Lee, Steve Ditko
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Theatrical distributor
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Columbia TriStar
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UK cinema certificate
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12
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UK cinema release date
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June 2002
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UK video release date
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November 2002
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Film certification logos reproduced by kind permission of BBFC |
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