Into the Spider-Verse has the sort of dimension hopping plot that is hard to explain but easy to follow. Set in the universe of new Spider-Man Miles Morales, we get to see him get to grips with his new powers whilst fellow Spider-People help him foil the plans of some well known super villains.

Opening with a knowing skip through the Spidey origin story we are treated to a highlight reel of super feats from every live action Spider-Man film as well as one hilarious moment that is frowned upon. This kind of ingenuity continues throughout with references to many Spider-Man comic storylines, the use of comic panels and thought bubbles and a clever Stan Lee cameo. If you look closely at the characters phone contacts list you will even see Brian Bendis and Steve Ditko in amongst them, who are the co-creators of Miles Morales and Peter Parker respectively.

The animation uses a clever style that looks like an old fashioned comic book blended with the bright and vivid colours of the current day. The image looking cross hatched and occasionally blurry round the edges. It also uses different styles for the new Spiders. Spider-Ham (yes, a talking pig) looking like a Looney Tunes cartoon whilst Peni Parker and her robot SP//dr taking on a Japanese anime style. Aside from the inventive use of styles and the beautiful look and feel, one of the greatest achievements here is the sense of speed and effortlessness of the Spiders swooping through the air.

And then we come to the perfectly pitched voice cast. Jake Johnson completely nails the laid back slacker original Peter Parker. Nic Cage gets to be another Super Hero, this time as Spider-Man Noir, a Black and White private detective version of the hero. Whilst the relatively unknown Shameik Moore gives teenage Morales street cred and vulnerability. Elsewhere there are some big names playing some great roles but it would be a shame to spoil the surprise.

The story manages to do a unique spin on the “with great power” plot in amongst all of the comic lore and humour as well. Fans of Bendis and Pichelli’s Miles Morales will be very happy. And anyone wanting to see more of these characters could look no further than Dan Slott’s recent comic run from which this story has taken inspiration.

In terms of talent behind the camera (or digital animation here) the name that will stand out and give an idea of the inventiveness on display is that of Phil Lord. Here, he is without his usual partner in crime Christopher Miller with whom he made Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, 21 Jump Street and the Lego Movie. And again it makes me wonder what Solo would have been if Disney had not removed them from the film.

Absolutely brimming with ideas, filled with humour and inside jokes, adopting a beautiful animation style, sporting a perfect voice cast and some great music this is easily one of the films of the year. And no amount of finger snapping from Thanos could wrestle away its crown of comic book film of the year.

And stay to the very end of the credits!

Update – It’s been pointed out to me that Christopher Miller is a Producer on the film.