Everybody's a critic - 'Spider-Man 2'

Rated PG-13 for stylized action violence, running time, 125 minutes. (Cape West Cine)

Three-and-a-half stars (out of four)

"Spider-Man 2" has Peter Parker (Toby McGuire) continuing to fight crime and keeping his undying love for Mary Jane (Kirsten Dunst) a secret. This time Spider-Man has to fight a new villain named Doc Ock (Alfred Molina), a

scientist who has eight mechanical arms fused to his spine due to an experiment gone wrong.

The movie starts out slow but keeps you in your seat wondering what's going to happen next. The special effects are mind-blowing, especially when Spider-Man is swinging his way around the city.

McGuire has once again turned in a terrific performance as your friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. Dunst also turns in a spectacular performance as MJ, Peter Parker's love interest.

The move does have strong violence. I highly recommend this movie to anyone over the age of five. You will not be disappointed.

- Jeremy Birk, food preparation

Three stars (out of four)

I personally, believe that "Spider-Man 2" has the perfect combination for a movie that appeals to all ages, especially the kiddos. Whether you are a superheroes fan or not, this movie deserves admiration for the entire package it presents.

When Spidey spins his webs, it seems that all the good stuff sticks and the bad stuff slides right off. Yes, heads bonk, bodies bounce and damsels get distressed.

"Spider-Man 2" was a step up from the first movie. I believe the script is better, the story is better and the director got it all right.

Finally, a movie that has very few profanities and sexual content. Yes, it is incrementally more violent than its predecessor. "Spider-Man 2" offers up hefty doses of bloodless yet intense, highly stylized combat mainly between Spider-Man and Doc Ock.

So gather up the ones you care about and take in this summer hit. I think you will enjoy it.

- Donna Sternickle, business owner

Four stars (out of four)

"Spider-Man 2" combines exciting action sequences with soliloquies on the deepest questions of human existence. Fortunately for viewers, the serious messages woven into the film are balanced by humor, presented in every way that has been used by the masters of film comedy.

No knowledge of the first "Spider-Man" is required to appreciate this sequel. The filmmakers skillfully intertwined dialogue, visual sequences and actors reprising earlier roles, to provide background information tying both films together.

Spider-Man, Peter Parker, faces an identity crisis in this film. Like many people, Parker spends most of his time and resources on the welfare of others while suffering deprivation. Parker has to find a way to meld his secret identity with the vulnerabilities of a young man.

Anyone faced with challenges in their life should see this movie. It's a thrill.

- Marilou Shaner, lawyer