Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse is a groundbreaking animated film released in 2018, directed by Bob Persichetti, Peter Ramsey, and Rodney Rothman. This visually stunning and narratively rich movie follows the story of Miles Morales, a teenager who becomes Spider-Man and joins forces with other Spider-People from different dimensions to save the multiverse.
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example Miles learning to control his powers Spider-Man as a metaphor for growth and self-discovery Multiverse collapsing Metaphor for interconnectedness and the impact of individual actions
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example Miles’ spider bite Hints at his transformation into Spider-Man Kingpin’s collider experiment Foreshadows the multiverse chaos
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example The Spider-Suit Represents responsibility and heroism The graffiti art Symbolizes Miles’ creativity and individuality
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example Peter B. Parker’s appearance The seasoned Spider-Man being out of shape Spider-Ham A humorous take on the serious Spider-Man archetype
Hyperbole
Movie Scene Device Example Kingpin’s size Exaggerates his power and menace Explosions and fight scenes Intensifies the action for dramatic effect
Personification
Movie Scene Device Example AI in Spider-Man’s suit Gives human-like qualities to technology Prowler’s theme music Personifies the character’s menace and presence
Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example References to past Spider-Man movies Connects the film to its broader franchise Comic book aesthetics Nods to the source material
Imagery
Movie Scene Device Example Multiverse visual effects Creates a vivid and surreal visual experience Swinging through New York Captures the exhilaration of being Spider-Man
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example Different Spider-People’s animation styles Highlights their unique backgrounds Miles’ life before and after becoming Spider-Man Shows his character development
Flashback
Movie Scene Device Example Peter Parker’s past Provides context and depth to his character Miles’ memories with his uncle Adds emotional weight to his journey
Miles Morales
Device Explanation Symbolism The Spider-Suit symbolizes Miles’ growth into his role as Spider-Man. Metaphor His journey mirrors the classic hero’s journey, highlighting his development from a regular teen to a hero .
Peter B. Parker
Device Explanation Irony His out-of-shape appearance contrasts with the typical image of Spider-Man, adding depth to his character. Flashback Provides insight into his past failures and motivations.
Gwen Stacy
Device Explanation Juxtaposition Her competent, composed demeanor contrasts with Miles’ initial awkwardness, highlighting different approaches to heroism. Symbolism Her ballet shoes symbolize her balance between her superhero and personal life.
Kingpin (Wilson Fisk)
Device Explanation Hyperbole His exaggerated physical size emphasizes his role as a formidable antagonist . Foreshadowing His experiments with the collider hint at the ensuing chaos and his desperation.
Character Dynamics
The relationships between characters are crucial to the narrative and themes. Miles and Peter B. Parker’s mentor-mentee dynamic drives much of the plot , showcasing themes of growth, redemption, and legacy. Similarly, the camaraderie and contrasts among the Spider-People from different dimensions highlight themes of diversity and unity.
Identity and Self-Discovery
Device Explanation Metaphor The transformation into Spider-Man symbolizes personal growth and self-discovery. Symbolism The Spider-Suit represents taking on new responsibilities and roles.
Responsibility and Sacrifice
Device Explanation Allusion References to the classic Spider-Man quote, “With great power comes great responsibility,” reinforce this theme . Flashback Scenes showing the sacrifices made by previous Spider-Men highlight the ongoing legacy of responsibility.
Family and Relationships
Device Explanation Imagery The vivid portrayal of Miles’ interactions with his family showcases the importance of these bonds. Juxtaposition The contrast between Miles’ supportive family and Kingpin’s loss-driven motivations underscores different responses to loss and love.
Courage and Heroism
Device Explanation Irony Peter B. Parker’s reluctant heroism adds depth to the theme of courage. Hyperbole The exaggerated action scenes amplify the theme of heroism and bravery.
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Imagery Animation style The comic book aesthetic enhances the film’s vivid imagery . Symbolism Color palette The use of vibrant colors symbolizes different characters’ personalities and moods. Metaphor Visual transitions The smooth transitions between dimensions visually represent the interconnectedness of the multiverse. Irony Sound design The playful and serious soundtracks underscore the film’s ironic moments.
Scene Selection
Miles Meets Peter B. Parker
The Leap of Faith
Final Battle
Interactive Multiple Choice Quiz
Which device is used to represent Miles’ growth?
What does Kingpin’s exaggerated size symbolize?
A) His humor
B) His power and menace
C) His intelligence
D) His vulnerability
Which theme is highlighted by the quote “With great power comes great responsibility”?
A) Identity
B) Family
C) Responsibility and Sacrifice
D) Courage and Heroism
What technique enhances the film’s comic book aesthetic?
In the scene ‘The Leap of Faith,’ which device is predominantly used?
