SPIDER-MAN 2 (2004)

With A+ critical write-ups and classy scripters (Michael Chabon & Alvin Sargent), you expect a bit more than the usual over-extended/risk-free CGI battles and those throwaway gags you might find in one of the better Roger Moore-era James Bond pics. And that’s just about what you get, a little bit more. Judging by the grosses, that was enough. But the structure often leaves us threat-free, while the crucial romantic triangle never bothers to particularize the "other" guy. (Wouldn’t the story play better if best-pal James Franco was the rival & main villain? Or are they saving that for SPIDEY 3?*) And why does Spidey reveal his true identity to so many clients? Kinda early in the series for that gambit, no? Tobey Maguire is an appealing actor, but his throaty whisper turns monotonous while Kirsten Dunst often looks tuckered out. Alfred Molina is beefy and amusing as the multi-limbed villain, but his DR. NO exit is all wet.
*They were, they were!