Sony Releases Free Spider-Man Horror Short: ‘The Spider Within: A Spider-Verse Story’

Sony’s latest addition to the Spider-Verse presents a narrative centered on Miles Morales grappling with anxiety.

Last week, the Spider-Man cinematic universe welcomed one of its favorite characters. We are talking about Miles Morales, albeit in a shorter format than usual. Sony Pictures Entertainment presented The Spider-Within: A Spider-Verse Story. This is a short film about seven minutes long that can already be accessed for free on its YouTube channel.This latest addition delves into Miles’ internal struggles with anxiety, presenting a formidable challenge for the young hero.

The Significance of Mental Health is Highlighted on the New Miles Morales Spider-Verse Short Film

Miles struggles to navigate his dual life as a superhero and a teenager. He also juggles his responsibilities. Some of these include maintaining relationships with friends, family and school, and dealing with his inner anxieties. This initiative aims to entertain and support the Kevin Love Fund, a non-profit organization dedicated to destigmatizing mental health issues and providing resources to those dealing with them. The short film promotes the importance of addressing mental health issues. It also encourages seeking support, even for superheroes like Miles Morales.

The short film saw the light of day at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival. It also offers a poignant insight into the mental problems faced by Morales, played by Shameik Moore. After a panic attack that highlights the weight of his obligations. Here Miles realizes the importance of seeking the support of his loved ones, particularly his father Jefferson, played by Brian Tyree Henry. The film is notable for emphasizing that even the bravest and most resilient heroes can face mental health issues. This as well as millions of others, underscores the importance and effectiveness of seeking help.

The Spider Within does not shy away from delving into the intricacies of Miles’ psyche. Moreover, it employs sinister apparitions as manifestations of his anxiety, a struggle he cannot overcome with his superhuman powers alone. Thus underscoring the importance of a support network, the short film expands the superhero narrative to embrace community and emotional support in overcoming individual obstacles. Jarelle Dampier and Khaila Amazan are the directors and screenwriters of the short film. It was also made as part of Sony Pictures Imageworks’ LENS mentorship program, and pays homage to the multi-faceted nature of the Miles Morales character.

Featured Image Via Sony Pictures

I am a circus aerialist influenced by Dick Grayson and Spider-Man. Fortunate to write about the characters that inspired me. I also have a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and a Master's degree in International Trade.