Animated films have come a long way since their early creation, and Marvel-Sony’s Across the Spider-Verse proved that it could still be innovated. The original 2018 Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse revived the comic book style-inspired movies, and because fans seemed to love such an artistic approach, a sequel has finally landed in theaters.
If the original film used only one animation design, Across the Spider-Verse used six various styles. With an expanding universe and new faces on the block, the movie needed to make the audience feel excited every time they get transported into a new dimension.
Across The Spider-Verse Used Six Animation Styles According To Producers
Across the Spider-Verse producer Christopher Miller confirmed to Empire that they used six dominant art styles in the movie as compared to the first one, bringing an epic viewing experience for the viewers:
“The two that you saw in the teaser trailer were what’s called Earth-50101, which we’re calling ‘Mumbattan’ – that’s based on an Indian comic-book look – and Nueva York from Spider-Man 2099’s world. That’s based on Syd Mead-style illustrations of what the future might look like. There’s also Gwen’s world, which is Earth-65. And that was a watercolour-wash style that’s reminiscent of the covers of her comic books.”
Co-producer Phil Lord stated that these six art styles were utilized to “accommodate” the ambition of the film:
“Which is to wow you every time you enter a new environment, and also to make sure that the style of the movie reflects the story, and that the images are driven by feelings, as opposed to some egg-headed art project.”
Indeed, the team behind Across the Spider-Verse animation demonstrated unparalleled talent and dedication to their craft. If playing with one art style is demanding enough, six is even more challenging!
Digital Artist Reveals Early Design Concept For Across The Spider-Verse
Meanwhile, an artist named Aymeric Kevin shared on Twitter his concept designs from the early stages of Across The Spider-Verse. He revealed it as a universe inspired by Jack Kirby. Check out his works below:
Various Spiderverse freestyle explorations in my early days. From Kingpin Hokusai, 1930’s cartoon The Wheel, Space Jack Kirby. All meant the celebrate and give homage to the artists who shaped our storytelling senses through their visual artistry.#AcrossTheSpiderVerse pic.twitter.com/idGBdelBeg
— Aymeric Kevin (@AYMRC) June 26, 2023
Fans seem to love the artist’s concept for the Spider-Verse sequel, with some even wondering why it was not chosen as one of the styles used in the movie. Check out what people have to say:
Now why the hell didn’t they do this
— 𝒯𝑜𝓃𝓎 𓃶 (@txnywar) July 5, 2023
Better give it to us in beyond
— max (@QuiGonMax) July 5, 2023
please make this happen.
— Comics Run the World (@ComicsRTW) July 5, 2023
Bet, they’re saving the Jack Kirby style for 616 Spider-Man
— NSFRonald (18+) (@RonJon027) July 5, 2023
Keep it for Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse as the world looks so cool!
— Josh❤️Barbie & Superman #BB25 #BlackLivesMatter (@supermangeek101) July 5, 2023
This looks incredible
— Zappa #ThankYouODA #freeMVC2 (@zappa_two) July 5, 2023
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse hit theaters last month and was widely praised by fans and critics. The film brought Sony a record-breaking box office after it grossed over $611 million globally against a budget of $100 million.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is still showing in select theaters worldwide.
Sources: Empire, Twitter
