“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” is becoming all the more anticipated as its release date approaches. Part of what made the first film such a huge hit was it’s fantastic casting choices. “Across the Spider-Verse” has expanded the amount of Spider-versions exponentially. One of the coolest additions to the cast is Spider-Punk, voiced by the amazing Daniel Kaluuya. He nothing but praise for creators Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Kemp Powers.
Spider-Punk doesn’t just look punk, he comes from one of the birthplaces of punk- Camden, England. Which, incidentally, is an origin place Spider-Punk and Kaluuya share. Immediately, Kaluuya felt a connection with the character. Especially since he was given the freedom to sound exactly like himself. His natural Camden accent comes through in the character, with the punky inflections of his hometown. A more perfect match literally couldn’t be made.
Chuffed To Bits
“I was gassed,” Kaluuya says in an interview with Empire. “I turned to Lord, Miller and Kemp and said, ‘Thank you for letting me be a part of it, because this is cool as fuck.’ I’m a voice in Spider-Verse with a wicked character that sounds exactly like me, from where I’m from. Come on! You go to the younger people in your family and flex: ‘I’m getting on, but don’t forget!’” To put it in English terms, Kaluuya couldn’t be more chuffed to be included and represented.
“I’m Camden born and bred, and this character is from Camden which is very much associated with the punk movement, so I think they wanted to lean into what they have for free with me,” He continues. Knowing that Kaluuya had the full space to be himself has us even more excited to hear his voice and be introduced to Spider-Punk.
“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” hits theaters June 2nd, 2023. “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse” is set for March 29th, 2024.
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