Marvel movies on both the Marvel Studios side and the Sony side have long since reached the threshold where every new film coming out is dominated by talk of which cool new cameos audiences can expect. But perhaps some of the most engaging speculation comes not from the mainline live-action entries, but the animated side-stories that have nonetheless become arguably more exciting among fans and more casual viewers.
One such production isnone other thanSpider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, the upcoming sequel to 2018’s extremely well-receivedSpider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. The 2018 film not only blew audiences away with its incredible animation style and surprisingly endearing story, it also showed off how well a crossover can truly be done. Containing several different Spider heroes, all of whom felt right at home even with their contrasting art styles, the film inspired many viewers to wonder where else a sequel could go.
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Well, it looks as though some of that wonder may have come to an end, and all thanks to some merchandise for the impending follow-up. Several pieces of tie-in toys and the like have been spotted in the wild, and some of them seem to tease the presence of afan-favorite Spider-Man iterationknown simply as Spider-Punk. This includes a mask which very clearly resembles the spiked one worn by the aforementioned hero, and the possibility goes even further thanks to a plastic Spider-Man-themed guitar. It probably helps that both of these items have the name “Spider-Punk” clearly emblazoned on them.
Spider-Punk has appeared numerous times throughout variousSpider-Manprojects, including 2018’sSpider-Manvideo game on PS4 (and eventually PS5 and PC). He came about when rebellious teen Hobie Brown was bitten by a radioactive spider. He eventually proclaimed himself as one of the many versions of Spider-Man and used his powers to fight for the people against the oppressive President Osborn regime. His look and vibe evoke that spirit of anarchy and defending the downtrodden, all with a musical flair that wouldn’t have been out of place at a Ramones show.
WhileSpider-Man: Into the Spider-Verseseemed to focus more on the origin story of Miles Morales as his own iteration of the web-slinger (with help from his new friends likethe instantly beloved Spider-Gwen), it looks as thoughAcross the Spider-Versewill give him the opportunity to really flex his hero muscles. Now that Miles feels more comfortable in the role, it leaves room for other characters to get some time in the spotlight while he still has space to develop. The near countless possibilities regarding which other Spider heroes might show up this time around are sure to build plenty of anticipation.
Whatever sort of movieAcross the Spider-Verseends up being, there’s bound to be plenty of excitement. With Spider-Punk on all but confirmed at this point, it looks as though Miles will have even more big personalities to contend with this time around.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verseis set to release in theaters on June 2nd, 2023.
