Spider-Verse’ Directors Admit Miguel O’Hara Was Intentionally Created as Heartthrob Spidey

The sequel to the Academy Award-winning Spider-Verse delves deeper into the journey of Miles and his spider friends. Filmmakers discuss the challenges behind last-minute changes and additions like Donald Glover’s cameo. Personal favorite scenes include the clock tower moment, surprising intensity between Miguel and Miles, and the meaningful final scene.

Collider was thrilled to screen this year’s Best Animated Feature nominee, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, for their FYC series with Landmark Theatres. The directing trio joined for an exclusive Q&A to discuss the work and passion poured into the project. Across the Spider-Verse continues Miles Morales’ journey to becoming his Earth’s friendly neighborhood Spider-Man. The crew of 1,000 animators flexed their skills in each and every scene. The largest team of any animated feature worked on the second of three films.

The trio discuss their whirlwind production, from last-minute additions and changes to pivoting after disheartening test screenings. They also talk about how The Empire Strikes Back inspired a new ending, which scenes meant the most to them, spending two years on the counselor scene, and reveal that Miguel O’Hara was designed to be a thirst trap. Miles Morales catapults across the Multiverse, where he encounters a team of Spider-People charged with protecting its very existence.

When the heroes clash on how to handle a new threat, Miles must redefine what it means to be a hero. The filmmakers discuss their journey and when they realized they made something that resonated with people. They also discuss the positive feedback they received and the impact of the film.