'Spider-Man' spokesman blasts critics

NEW YORK, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- A spokesman for "Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark" called the critical drubbing the Broadway musical has gotten before it officially opens "ridiculous."

The stage version of the comic-book superhero story is directed by Julie Taymor and features music by U2's Bono and The Edge.

The musical's official opening date has been postponed several times while the creative team works out technical snafus and retools the story.

Although the show is not slated to open until March 15, many critics have bucked tradition and published their reviews this week, timed to the previously announced opening date of Feb. 7.

The show's representative, Rick Miramontez, told EW.com in an exclusive statement Tuesday he thinks it is unfair for critics to pan the show while it is still in previews.

"The PILE-ON by the critics was ridiculous and uncalled for. Their actions are unprecedented and UNCOOL!" Miramontez said.