'Spider-Man' stays true to its roots

Spider-Man - PG-13\nStarring: Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, Kirsten Dunst\nDirected by: Sam Raimi\nShowing: Showplace West 12\nAny comic book superhero movie runs a great risk. It is a risk of being too concerned with thrills and action to pay attention to creating a solid, thought-provoking story. And it's refreshing to see a film like "Spider-Man" sidestep this landmine. \nThe film stays faithful to the most important and unique part of Spider-Man's character in and out of costume; unlike the gadget-wielding, virile Batman or the "All-American" image of Superman, Spidey is just like any other skinny high school kid out there -- confused, scared, and often lonely. His newfound power is as much of a hassle as it is exciting and enjoyable. This is what sets him apart from the rest of the spandex-clad comic universe for so many years and what makes for a more down to earth and relatable film. For this reason, it will satisfy both the casual acquaintance and even the biggest Spider-Man devotee. \nIt wastes little time getting to the action. Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) is a nerdy high school photographer who is bitten by a genetically enhanced spider while on a field trip. Suddenly, finding himself with a few strange powers, he begins his punishment of wrong-doing throughout the city and pursues a long time crush, his neighbor Mary Jane Watson (Kirsten Dunst). \nMeanwhile, not surprisingly, the nefarious foe lurks. The freshly laid-off father (Willem Dafoe) of Peter's best friend Harry (James Franco) has discovered a few powers of his own. After stealing a few military toys from his old job, he begins wreaking havoc on the city in a vindictive rage under the guise of the Green Goblin. \nThe actors do the best they can considering that the script is drenched with cheesy, sappy lines, particularly the exchanges between the googly-eyed Peter and the girl-next-door (literally) Mary Jane. Dafoe tackles possibly the most demanding role in the film as the Jekyll-and-Hyde- like Green Goblin, and he knows both when to lash out and when to project a sinister reticence. Maguire, who has established himself in more low-key films such as "Wonder Boys" and "The Cider House Rules," creates both a powerful and compassionate lead role. \nThe much anticipated computer-generated action sequences ("CGI" to those familiar) are decent overall, but a few quick shots come off as a trifle silly and inconsistent. \nOh, and for those wondering about the possibility of a sequel -- there won't be one. We're talking at least two or three. \n

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