Spider Noir Team Discusses Black-and-White Option and Nicolas Cage’s TV Debut
8 reported
The creative team behind the Prime Video series “Spider Noir” discussed the show’s black-and-white viewing option, Nicolas Cage’s transition to television, and character inspirations during an event on June 5. Showrunner Oren Uziel said the black-and-white option gives viewers a taste of German expressionism and hard lighting, while the color version offers a vibrant palette for film noir fans. The first season, currently streaming, follows detective Ben Reilly (Cage) becoming Spider-Noir in 1930s New York, based on the Marvel comic books. Cage stated he had to “get the snob hat off” after not starring in a TV show before, noting that watching “Breaking Bad” with his teenage son showed him the value of long-form storytelling. Lamorne Morris, who plays reporter Robbie Robertson, said his research led him to journalist Ted Poston, whom he suspects inspired the comic character. Karen Rodriguez described her character Janet Ruiz as a woman empowered through community, and Jack Huston recalled the opportunity to honor classic films on the show’s sets.
What’s reported
“Spider Noir” offers viewers a choice between color and black-and-white on Prime Video.
Showrunner Oren Uziel said black-and-white provides a taste of German expressionism and hard lighting.
The series is set in 1930s New York and follows detective Ben Reilly becoming Spider-Noir.
Nicolas Cage said he had to “get the snob hat off” for his first TV series role.
Cage’s teenage son showed him “Breaking Bad,” which influenced his view of long-form storytelling.
Lamorne Morris based his character Robbie Robertson on journalist Ted Poston.
Karen Rodriguez said her character Janet Ruiz is empowered through community.
Jack Huston noted the show’s sets honor classic films from Warner Bros., MGM, and Universal.
Key figures
Oren Uziel (showrunner)
Nicolas Cage (actor, plays Ben Reilly/Spider-Noir)
Lamorne Morris (actor, plays Robbie Robertson)
Karen Rodriguez (actor, plays Janet Ruiz)
Jack Huston (actor, plays Sandman/Flint Marko)
Ted Poston (journalist, referenced by Morris)
Sources: Variety
