In the animated sequel, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” Gwen Stacy’s character has sparked a flurry of theories among fans, who believe she represents a trans allegory. The film, which follows the adventures of Miles Morales and various versions of Spider-Man from alternate dimensions, reintroduces viewers to the iconic Spider-Gwen, also known as Spider-Woman. While the debate rages on, evidence supporting Gwen’s trans identity stems from queer-coded elements present throughout the movie.
One of the significant pieces of evidence is the presence of a trans Pride flag, bearing the words “Protect Trans Kids,” observed in the background of a trailer preceding the film’s release. Upon watching the movie in its entirety, fans have noticed additional queer-coded clues that contribute to the belief that Gwen’s character, animation, and story arc parallel the struggles faced by trans individuals on a daily basis.
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Within the film’s prologue, a “Protect Trans Kids” poster is explicitly shown on the wall of Gwen’s own bedroom in Earth-65, providing a direct connection to the trans community. Furthermore, Gwen’s scenes on Earth-65 exhibit a distinct color palette, incorporating pastel blue, pink, and white hues reminiscent of the trans Pride flag. This artistic choice becomes particularly evident during a pivotal moment when Gwen reveals her hidden identity as Spider-Woman to her father, George Stacy. The scene surrounds Gwen with an environment drenched in the trans Pride colors, effectively symbolizing the metaphorical act of coming out.
Adding to the speculation, sharp-eyed viewers have also observed a trans Pride flag badge pinned to Gwen’s father’s police uniform during the same scene, further emphasizing the connection. Whether Gwen Stacy is indeed trans, an ally, or simply represents a metaphor for the trans experience, the inclusion of a trans-coded superhero overcoming adversity has garnered widespread praise from fans. The film, akin to its predecessor, “Into the Spider-Verse,” showcases a diverse cast of characters, highlighting shared struggles and a pride in their identities.
Although Gwen Stacy’s gender identity does not directly drive the plot of “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse,” the resonance she finds within the trans community solidifies her as a trans icon, irrespective of her cisgender status. This parallels the open-ended interpretation of characters, as exemplified by Mark Hamill’s comments about Luke Skywalker’s potential gay identity. As discussions surrounding Gwen’s trans allegory continue, fans eagerly await the third installment of the franchise, “Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse,” set to release in March 2024.
In the meantime, “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” is captivating audiences in theaters, stirring conversations about inclusivity, representation, and the power of allegory within the LGBTQ+ community.
