The Hack Stamp: AMAZING SPIDER-MAN

Plenty of critics are addressing the lack of originality in The Amazing Spider-man. Oh, the bitter irony.

Whether they're pro or con on the new reboot of the Marvel Comics hero, filmwriters are trotting out obvious, Hack Stamp-erific turns of phrase to express their feelings. For example, I'll bet you'd never guess that a certain adjective from the title might make its way into some of the reviews, even as the writers sometimes try to excuse the use as self-aware.

“I feel compelled to say that this Spider-Man is anything but amazing.” – Mark Savlov, Austin Chronicle

“It actually leaves us very interested in possible sequels. Considering how things could have gone, that's pretty... well... amazing.” – Rob Vaux, Mania.com

“As it turns out, The Amazing Spider-Man is pretty, well, amazing.” – Alex Zane, Sun Online

“‘Amazing’” isn’t exactly the word that comes to mind.” – Jon Niccum, Kansas City Star

Of course, that's not the only way you could go if you weren't feeling particularly inventive. You could try out something that has a link to, oh, let's say, spiders.

“… a plot with more holes than a spider web.” – Frank Lovece, Film Journal International

“… dizzying entertainment that once it gets going will hold you as firmly as one of Spidey's webs.” – Bob Bloom, Journal and Courier (Lafayette, IN)

“Even though the story is familiar it's hard to not get drawn into its own unique web.” – Randy Myers, San Jose Mercury News

“…it's hard to imagine many fans being drawn into its web. … With great stories come great responsibilities.” – Colin Covert, Minneapolis Star-Tribune

And, lest anyone be disappointed:

“No, your spider senses aren't tingling. That's déj vu you're experiencing.” – Mike Scott, Times-Picayune

“... it most certainly won't make your spider-sense tingle.” – Scott Collura, IGN.com