Let’s face it, Tom Holland’s Spider-Man movies have been some of the most consistently good films in the entire MCU franchise. With a brand new installment, titled Spider-Man: Brand New Day, Tom Holland is starring as the red and blue web slinger an unprecedented fourth time. Will this fourth entry bring continued success for Tom and his friendly neighborhood Spider-Man?
The Plot
Spider-Man: Brand New Day is set not long after the events of the previous film No Way Home. Spider-Man is once again beloved by all of New York City, and Peter has settled into his new lonesome life as an anonymous workaholic. When a sinister new foe with mysterious motives begins possessing unsuspecting citizens, Peter must find a way to connect with what he thought was lost and Spidey will be faced with some frightening transformations. Will Spider-Man, and his amazing friends, be able to solve the mystery and save the day again?
What’s Changed?
Jon Watts, who directed the last three entries, sits this one out, allowing director Destin Daniel Cretton to bring his own style to the Spider-Man franchise. Anyone familiar with his previous cinematic project in the MCU, Shang Chi, will find a familiar attention to dynamic action scenes and stunning visuals. Those who watched the Disney+ series Wonder Man, which Destin co-created, will not be surprised to find he also brings a slower pace to the film, over all, that gives time between battles for these characters to really develop and evolve.
What’s Familiar?
Returning as Spider-Man, Tom Holland brings the same core of innocence and vulnerability to the character. The film as a whole maintains the same heart and hope that has always drawn us to Spider-Man stories, even while dealing with complex issues of emotional trauma and loss. Brand New Day also maintains the strong connective tissue with the larger MCU, with several fan favorites playing key roles.
What’s Missing?
A common critique of Tom Holland’s Spider-Man films is the loss of Peter Parker’s relatably rough personal life. While Brand New Day certainly makes his journey as a superhero seem like more of a struggle, fans have noted that Peter still doesn’t have some of the classic aspects in his daily life. Notably absent are his connection to photography, the Daily Bugle and J. Jonah Jameson, or to even the need for a day job of any kind.
My biggest issue, however, isn’t even with the film itself. I was very frustrated by the lack of meaningful moments that weren’t spoiled by the overwhelming marketing push. Character building events that could have made a major impact were telegraphed months in advance, and even things that they attempted to keep secret were made painfully obvious by the premiere.
Who Should Watch Spider-Man: Brand New Day?
The best thing that I can say about this film is that it’s an excellent MCU movie, and a very good Spider-Man movie. If you are a fan of the original three MCU Spider-Man films then you will find something a little fresh, but also comfortingly familiar. If you enjoyed the movie Thunderbolts then you will enjoy similar themes and action. If you were a fan of The Punisher on Netflix or Disney+ then you will find a version of Frank Castle who is full of attitude and fun, even if he is a bit less formidable. Ultimately, there is a lot to enjoy in Spider-Man Brand New Day, and if you’re looking to dive back into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, now is a great time.
