Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing – The Exhibition

Name: Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing – The Exhibition
Item: Union Station
Author: Kristina Light

by Kristina Light

May 27, 2023

10:00 a.m.

Mark Lozano Photography

About the Exhibit: Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing - The Exhibition tells the story of the web slinger, from his origins in 1962 to his modern-day adventures through original art, interactive displays, photo ops, priceless artifacts from the motion pictures and more. The exhibit is open at Union Station on May 26 thru October 1, 2023. Buy Tickets here.

Read on for two reviews, one from KC Parent's Digital Media Manager, Kristina Light, a local mom who took children ages 6-17 to explore the exhibit, and another from our new summer intern, a local college student, Iris Enna.

Kristina's Take:

Our family recently visited this new exhibit at Union Station. The exhibit is vibrant and interactive telling the history of Spider-Man from his origin in comic books all the way to modern film. With artifacts including comics, collector's items, toys, and movie memorabilia, many fabulous photo ops, hands-on displays, opportunities to watch and listen to clips, and the story of the superhero, this fun-filled exhibit is great for all ages.

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Even the entrance to the exhibit is compelling and interactive. Before you arrive, you walk through the appropriately animated display showing an artist's studio as the comics are "created" right before your eyes digitally.

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The larger-than-life displays are thrilling and colorful, fitting for the franchise the exhibit celebrates. Many of the displays feature digital animation and 3-D models.

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The exhibit tells the history of Spidey, starting with his creation six decades ago. Visitors learn about the artists behind Spider-Man, the original comics, the story of the villains, and memorabilia.

Original Art: The exhibition features 33 pieces of priceless original art including pages and covers by many of comics’ most popular and influential, an original script page with notes from Stan Lee (and the accompanying hand-drawn comic page), as well as digital art pieces from video games and animation. The art on display covers the entire 60+ years of Spider-Man’s history, from his introduction in 1962 through to the present day.

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My daughters love the new Spider-Man films and especially enjoyed seeing items from the films. Visitors see more than a dozen iconic items will be on display from Sony Pictures Studio. Ranging from the 2002 original “Spider-Man” featuring Tobey Maguire trilogy series to Tom Holland’s most recent “Spider-Man: No Way Home” (2021). Artifacts include costumes, props, and models.

Highlight Exhibition Items that have never been seen in a public setting before Include:

Original Comic Art, Strange Tales #97, page 2. This original page from a Stan Lee / Steve Ditko story depicts an “Aunt May” and “Uncle Ben” months before identical characters debuted in the pages of Amazing Fantasy #15.
Never-Before-Seen: Original Comic Art, Amazing Spider-Man #300, cover. This original Todd McFarlane cover has been endlessly reprinted, homaged, and used on licensed merchandise, and is one of the most iconic and recognizable images of Spider-Man in his black costume.
Original Comic Art, Ultimate Fallout #4, cover. Mark Bagley (pencils) and Andy Lanning (inks), 2011. This piece by Mark Bagley is the original hand-drawn art for the first-ever appearance of Miles Morales, depicting him as the new Spider-Man.
Never-Before-Seen: Spider-Man Costume: As worn by Tom Holland in “Spider-Man: Far from Home” (2019). Iconic red and black suit.
Never-Before-Seen: Spider-Man Costume: As worn by Tom Holland in “Spider-Man: No Way Home” (2021). Black suit.
World Premiere: Custom-created, life-size sculpt, Miles Morales photo op.
Never-Before-Seen: Digital concept and design artwork from Sony/Marvel’s “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” in theatres June 2^nd.

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Kids loved interactive areas including the wind-tunnel exhibit, a coloring area, videos and audio displays, fun trivia games throughout and photo ops. The exhibit is bursting with Spidey-trivia detailing the story of his romance with MJ, various costumes used throughout the years, the story of the villains, and the comic and film franchises.

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Gift Shop

Once you exit the exhibit, you may purchase Spidey gear in the well-stocked gift shop.

A KC Must-See:

Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing is a must-see attraction in Kansas City this summer for all Marvel fans. You'll be thrilled to explore the world of Spider-Man learn the history of the beloved superhero, see comic and movie memorabilia firsthand, and experience his world in an interactive family-friendly way.

Iris the Intern's Take:

Spider-Man is one of the most popular characters in our culture today and has been for decades. From his creation in 1962 to his most recent movies today, kids and adults continue to admire this iconic superhero.

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Union Station has put together a once-in-a-lifetime exhibit displaying the history of Spider-Man and its creators. This exhibit begins by taking you through the first stages of Spider-Man in the 1960s including original sketches and notes by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko. There is something new and exciting with every turn you make, including items and costumes from the movies, interactive displays, photos and videos, and more. One of the most impressive displays included a couple costumes worn by Sprider-Man actor Tom Holland. Throughout the exhibit there is something for every age group.

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For older kids and adults, there are posters with detailed history, fun facts, and photos. The kids zone included coloring posters, a Spider-Man drawing tutorial, and an interactive wind-tunnel. There are multiple 3-D Spider-Man figures placed throughout the exhibit for photo ops, screens with headphones to watch short clips about the character, and hidden “silly facts” including Spider-Man’s favorite food. You can even learn about supporting characters like fan-favorites Mary Jane and Venom. Once you reach the end you can browse the gift shop full of Spider-Man themed merchandise and toys.

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For families with younger kids, consider helping them read the posters and displays so they can get the full experience!

This unique and exciting exhibit is a definite must for marvel fans and young kids. It is a great opportunity to learn about the history of Spider-Man, see artifacts and priceless memorabilia, and have a great time with the family! It is open May 26 thru October 1, 2023. Make sure to secure your tickets before they sell out!