(Liberal Voice Network) – “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” has taken the box office by storm, generating over $120 million in its opening weekend, making it the second-highest grossing film of the year. This sequel to the acclaimed “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” has captivated fans and critics alike with its visually stunning spectacle, solidifying its position among animated movie masterpieces. However, one aspect of the film is particularly resonating with audiences—the possibility that Gwen Stacy, a Spider superhero from an alternate universe, might be transgender.
Since its release, keen-eyed viewers have noticed subtle hints throughout the movie that suggest Gwen’s gender identity. In one scene, a transgender flag adorns Gwen’s room, proudly displaying the message “Protect Trans Kids.” Another instance reveals Gwen’s father wearing a trans flag on his police uniform. Additionally, Gwen is often seen donning the colors of the trans flag—pink and blue. While the creators have not explicitly confirmed Gwen’s gender identity, these clues have sparked discussion and celebration within the online community.
Twitter users have voiced their support, asserting that Gwen’s transgender identity can be inferred, regardless of official confirmation. As one user passionately stated, “Trans (and even cis) fans have every right to say Gwen Stacy is trans, even if the movies never outright confirm it. You can’t deny that it’s been hinted at. The fact is—if she can make somebody feel represented, who are you to tell them they’re wrong?”
Critics have debated the significance of the color choices, noting that pink and blue have also been traditionally associated with Gwen’s portrayal in the comics. Zoe Tunnell, a comics writer and longtime fan, described the hints in the film as “as subtle as a brick” in a tweet. Tunnell, who is also transgender, immediately recognized these Easter eggs while watching the movie, believing them to be deliberate. She emphasized that it is not solely about Gwen’s specific identity but rather the message of support and representation conveyed through her character.
“The people telling this story presented hers in a way that was clearly intended to resonate and support with many of our lives, both thematically and symbolically using the pride color palette,” Tunnell explained. “I don’t think a character played by a cis woman being trans is nearly as important as a children’s movie telling trans kids and adult viewers that they’re not alone in their struggles and are seen and supported.”
However, not everyone has embraced the possibility of Gwen being transgender. Tunnell shared her shock at receiving an overwhelming amount of hatred and even death threats following her viral tweet. Such vehement reactions demonstrate why support and solidarity with transgender individuals are crucial in today’s world.
The first film in the franchise, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” garnered acclaim for its celebration of minority cultures. The central Spider-Man, Miles Morales, represents Afro-Latino heritage, and director Peter Ramsey highlighted the significance of representation, stating that the film fulfilled a vital need. Ramsey, an executive producer of “Across the Spider-Verse,” emphasized the genre’s power to allow audiences to identify with heroic figures who face their own challenges and insecurities.
Looking ahead, a third installment titled “Spider-Verse: Beyond the Spider-Verse” is slated for release next year, promising to continue the groundbreaking representation and diversity that have become hallmarks of the franchise.