SPIDER-MAN 2 TO SMASH BOX-OFFICE RECORDS?

SPIDER-MAN 2 producers are expecting another box-office record-breaker after the sequel received rave reviews in America.

The first Spider-Man took $115 million (GBP63 million) in its opening weekend, outselling previous record-holder HARRY POTTER AND THE SORCERER'S STONE by nearly $25.2 million (GBP14 million), but the enthusiastic reviews of its sequel - starring TOBEY MAGUIRE, KIRSTEN DUNST, JAMES FRANCO and ALFRED MOLINA - suggests it could become the most popular movie in history.

American paper USA TODAY gushes, "With special effects so convincing you don't even think about them, a head-case hero and a three-dimensional villain who is his equal, Spider-Man 2 has something for everyone."

Hollywood bible NEW YORK DAILY NEWS says, "The chases and battles are stunningly rendered with Spidey ping-ponging off skyscrapers and landmarks, courtesy of special effects."

The film will open in more than 4,100 cinemas in the US - more than the 3,615 for the first Spider-Man.