June 18th 2023.
How do you follow up on an Oscar-winning best-animated feature that grossed over $380 million? Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse, is the highly-acclaimed sequel to the Spider-Man franchise and it has instantly become a blockbuster hit, shattering box office records and skyrocketing to the top spot.
Issa Rae, Luna Lauren Velez, and Brian Tyree Henry are just a few of the beloved, ensemble voice cast. BLACK ENTERPRISE recently caught up with the spidey superheroes to discuss their preparation for bringing their animated characters to the big screen, real-life parallels, and the strong sense of empowerment their on-screen characters have resonated with audiences all over the world.
When asked what their characters taught them about themselves, Luna Lauren Velez said, “I based Rio [Morales] on my mom, and I hoped to be the same parent my mom was. It taught me what it takes to raise a young man. You have to give up in some ways, a part of yourself and a part of your life, to help, specifically this young Afro-Latino man, to make sure he navigates his way in the world confidently. Also, ensuring that he knows he’s loved and has the power to be anything he wants because it lies within himself. That realization that you can, as a human being, help someone understand their own power is really what I’ve learned in this movie.”
When asked who their real-life superhero growing up was, Issa Rae replied, “My mom, and as I’ve grown, she has been a constant staple. But then I think about so many of my teachers. I have several superhero teachers who have been absolutely amazing, especially when you think about how undervalued they are. I would not be here without so many of my incredible teachers.”
Brian Tyree Henry discussed what he loved the most about voicing Jeff Morales’ character. He said, “I learned from Jeff that he’s very kind, loving, funny, and loves his wife. Watching his son grow up, he’s also discovering many things about himself. There’s also that brotherhood connection between him and his late brother, a sense of responsibility. But I also tried to portray him as the father I wish I had seen while watching films like this.”
Issa Rae was asked what makes a real-life superhero, to which she replied, “A real-life superhero has selflessness and a genuine desire to make the world better. Through their acts of kindness and consideration, I know many real-life superheroes, and I admire that.”
The actors discussed the steps they took to understand the depth and importance of their character in this story. Issa Rae said, “Thankfully, I didn’t have to do as much research because I am such a big fan, and so much of the Spider-Man universe is embedded in my core. But for my character in particular, I could ask the filmmakers directly because this was a hybrid creation of Jessica Drew and Spider-Women. Internalizing their intentions and thinking about the film’s mission really helped inform my performance.”
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