Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse offered the audience a glimpse into a multitude of distinct universes. The concept art reveals a visually captivating Jack Kirby world that ultimately didn't make the final selection.
The film introduced fresh facets of the Spider-Verse, each accompanied by its own distinct visuals and animation. It commences with Spider-Gwen's enchanting watercolor realm, which dynamically changes according to her emotions. Subsequently, fans witness The Spot traversing dimensions and entering the LEGO Spider-Man universe. Moreover, viewers are treated to glimpses of Mumbattan, Nueva York, and finally, Earth 42, as the film brims with a plethora of diverse universes.
Concept artist Aymeric Kevin imagines what it would have been like if Miles and Gwen had ventured into a Kirby world in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. Kirby, alongside Stan Lee, Steve Ditko, Bill Everett, and Don Heck, played a vital role in co-creating the Marvel comics universe. Among his notable creations are Captain America, The Fantastic Four, The Avengers, The X-Men, and more. Kirby was renowned for his vibrant colors, particularly in his space and psychedelic artwork. This concept art effectively captures that essence.
The artist behind this Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse concept art clarifies that it was merely a pitch unrelated to any specific storyline. Hence, the presence of a talking spaceship that never appears in the movie makes sense. Additionally, this concept art was likely created before the filmmakers finalized Miles' suit for the film. While Miles still wears his original suit from his first movie in the artwork, we do see Gwen utilizing the watch to traverse dimensions. Therefore, this concept art provides a glimpse behind the scenes of the story development during this stage of production.
Some fans are hopeful to see this world in Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse sequel. One fan expressed their wish on Twitter, stating, "I hope we get to see this in Beyond The Spider-Verse," and another mentioned, "They're probably saving it for Beyond." This theory holds some potential truth, considering that both movies were originally intended to be a single piece before being divided into two parts. The concept art was likely proposed during the early stages of development, possibly even before the film was split. However, it is unlikely for an artist to share concept art if it will be featured in the next movie.
Including this would have been a fantastic homage to a Marvel Comics legend, who is occasionally overshadowed by other comic book creators. It would be amazing to witness it in Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, though the likelihood of that happening seems uncertain.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse is now playing in theaters.
Source: AYMRC/Twitter