Finally, A Genuine Depiction of Teenage Angst: "Spiderman: Across The Spider Verse" (Spoilers!)

When we talk of the teenage angst, certain ideas come into mind. The Media would often portray these crucial moments in a teenager's life with the use of overdramatic scenes represented by the overconsumption of drugs, recurring scenes of physical fights, paired with absurd resolutions, and of course it is not intended for the teenage audience if it were not for the excessive showcase of nudity. And incase you have not catch on, Sam Levinson, I am looking directly at you.

When Sony Pictures came out with this animation, I was already expecting so much out of it. Thankfully, my high expectations were all fulfilled. We all are aware of the bars that it sets for newly upcoming animation movies, and just simply how good and complex the overall plot it. Animators, movie-enthusiasts, art-enthusiasts, and I mean everyone is talking of how game-changing their animation sets out to be. Despite of all the critical acclamations and praises its received, one factor that has not been widely discussed is how realistic and genuine their portrayal of teenage angst truly is.

Miles Morales, a 15-year-old teenager with extraordinary superpowers, is the Spiderman in Earth 1610B. As the story unfolds, the audience becomes aware of his profound sense of isolation and longing. Unlike other versions of Spiderman, Miles has not yet discovered the ability to traverse across the spider-verse, causing him to feel solitary. This theme of loneliness and the impact it has on his actions and emotions gradually emerges, transforming the seemingly simple and juvenile plot into something more profound.

Throughout the movie, we witness small yet poignant scenes where Miles channels his feelings of loneliness. Whether it is by placing his frustrations towards his parents or seeking solace in music to calm his anger, these small moments feel more impactful and genuine compared to the contrived portrayals often found in modern-day movies. It resonates deeply when one places so much trust and yearning for others' validation, only to second-guess oneself. Similarly, the longing to belong to a group, only to be chosen last, and the disappointment of idealizing a friend who does not reciprocate the same level of friendship are situations that are no strangers to most teenagers.

Miles' journey diverges from the typical superhero tropes, focusing less on dramatic events and more on the series of betrayals and broken promises he experiences from his friends. As the audience witnesses these events unfold, we understand how they drive Miles to act recklessly, wreaking havoc on his surroundings—a reflection of how our heightened emotions can lead to impulsive actions driven by anger. However, by the end of the movie, Miles realizes that venturing into the "real world" is daunting as he recalls his mother's words. Ultimately, he longs for the familiar comforts of home and his family.

This honest portrayal of teenage angst resonates deeply with me. Although the movie is not too complex into the emotional aspects, the troubled relationship with his parents, and his disbelief at Pavitr Prabhakar swift inclusion into the Spider Society despite being relatively new to the role, speak volumes about his character. At 15, Miles embodies common traits shared by many adolescents—loneliness, anxiety, heightened emotions, recklessness, and insecurity. It sets a high standard for the cinematic world, accurately depicting the teenage experience.

"Spiderman: Into The Spider Verse" not only showcases stunning animations but also challenges the diluted portrayals of teenagers in movies. As a teenager myself, it is comforting and reassuring to see a character I can relate to on screen. The film serves as a reminder that teenagers are more than mere stereotypes, and it highlights the potential for authentic and relatable storytelling in the cinematic landscape.