Inside the Spider-Verse: Unlocking the Secrets Behind Multiple Versions of the Film

Highlights

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse has multiple versions, resulting in controversy among fans who prefer the original.

The film underwent revisions prompted by the necessity for global translations and enhancements recognized by the production crew. Although certain fans appreciate the idea of a "movie multiverse," the absence of accessibility to alternate renditions might leave viewers dissatisfied.

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse currently offers multiple versions of the film, with producers Phil Lord and Chris Miller providing an explanation for this approach.

After the theatrical release of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, several viewers noticed discrepancies in certain scenes upon rewatching. A film editor involved with the project confirmed the existence of two distinct versions of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse in theaters. As the film became available digitally, fans observed further alterations, resulting in the existence of three different versions of the film. This decision has sparked controversy among fans.

In an interview with GamesRadar+, Lord and Miller shared the reasoning behind their decision to make changes to Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. According to Miller, an international version of the film was created about two months prior to its release in order to facilitate translation into different languages and to determine the movie's rating in Europe, particularly by French censors. However, the team at [Sony Pictures] Imageworks noticed that there were still some shots that could be further improved for the final version. As a result, they dedicated their efforts to polishing and fine-tuning those specific elements.

Miller mentioned that members of the Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse crew provided helpful suggestions for improvements. Various individuals in the sound department and animation team proposed alternative ideas and strived to create the best possible version of the movie. The concept of the multiverse played a role in the decision-making process, aiming to produce a version that would make everyone proud. Lord added that he believes most of the changes made are enhancements.

While most changes in the different versions of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse are minor, some are more significant in the digital version. For instance, in one version, when Miguel asks Lyla for backup, she points, while in another version, she takes a selfie. These small alterations do not significantly impact the viewer's experience. However, there are larger changes, such as a crucial scene between Gwen Stacy and Miles, that have disappointed fans who prefer the original version. Presently, there is no alternative means of watching the various versions.

Although some fans appreciate the alterations as they create a sense of a cinematic multiverse, it would be regrettable if the alternative versions of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse were to be lost in the realm of inaccessible media. Fans eagerly await the revelation of which versions will be accessible through streaming platforms or physical releases. Currently, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse can be enjoyed in its digital format.

Source: GamesRadar+