Synopsis:
For the first time in the cinematic history of Spider-Man, our friendly neighborhood hero’s identity is revealed, bringing his Super Hero responsibilities into conflict with his normal life and putting those he cares about most at risk. When he enlists Doctor Strange’s help to restore his secret, the spell tears a hole in their world, releasing the most powerful villains who’ve ever fought a Spider-Man in any universe. Now, Peter will have to overcome his greatest challenge yet, which will not only forever alter his own future but the future of the Multiverse.
By now we’re all familiar with the saying, “With great power comes great responsibility” and I never could’ve imagined how much that quote would reverberate throughout the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Hell, when we heard it back in 2002 in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man, none of us thought we would ever have an entire universe of heroes as we do now. It’s quite amazing to think about. Additionally, I think what makes the quote so special is that it’s a call to action for not just the hero, but for us as well. The words have been floating around in my mind from the moment they vacated Uncle Ben’s mouth. As we’ve seen, those words tend to feel somewhat baked into each superhero as if they received the same speech at some point. Now, not only have the words become an unspoken slogan for those we see attempting to save the universe, but it is the spirit of the MCU.
“Strong enough to have it all, too weak to take it.
The MCU hasn’t been shaken up this much since Avengers: Infinity War so I hope that you are ready. Ready to be shook, amazed, surprised, thrilled saddened, and marveled. That said, the webhead has come for his belt because Spider-Man: No Way Home is the new champion of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It’s an action-packed, ambitious, nostalgic, and satisfying end to the trilogy. It’s also just as full of emotion as it is full of non-stop excitement. I honestly don’t know who displayed more emotion, me or the film. The level of exhilaration is unreal, it’s more web than you can handle. This is the web-slinger we have been waiting for. In Tom Holland’s best outing by far as Peter Parker, this film delivers on all facets. It feels delightfully more like a coming-of-age story than ever before, the stakes are potentially at their highest since Thanos, and without a mentor and now exposed, he has to find an alternative way to save the day and himself. Moreover, there is substantial loss, significant gain, major highs, and painful lows. There is so much that I wish I could elaborate on but I’d rather not ruin anything for you. However, I will say that a new bar has been set, and the future of our beloved universe is going to be wild, to say the least. The action sequences are tense, electrifying, and feel simultaneously grounded as well as grandiose. The score tremendously heightens each scene in a masterful way. Aesthetically, the film looks absolutely amazing, especially when… just kidding. Oh, and let me not forget about the mid-credits scene, so much yes. Is there a post-credits scene? You bet your sweet Aunt May there is, and Feige can proceed to take all my money. Besides what this film adds to the Phase 4 journey and beyond, Spider-Man: No Way Home is the most fun you will have had at a theater this year. You’re going to laugh, yell, cheer, and if you’re really invested, you are going to cry. I enjoyed the hell out of this movie. Its rewatchability is high.
Pacing & Pop
The pacing of this film is exactly what I believe most want from a comic book film. From beginning to end, it is pure excitement and emotion. You all know that I’m not the spoiling type, so I can’t tell you what popped for me. So, I’ll say the end credits scene and what have to look forward to going forward.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Tom Holland, Zendaya, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jacob Batalon, Jon Favreau, with Marisa Tomei
What a fantastic cast. I’m going to go out on a pretty sturdy limb and say that this is Tom Holland’s best performance of his career so far. He was able to showcase a full range of emotions from poop your pants worried to break your face angry. I grew up loving Tobey Maguire’s Peter Parker because of how dark he was able to go, but with Holland showing that he is able to do the same, I might have a new favorite. With all the life and energy he brings to both Peter Parker and Spider-Man, he was born for the role. The rapport Holland has with Zendaya as MJ and Jacob Batalon as Ned makes these films a lot of fun. You can feel how effortless their chemistry is. But when it comes to villainy, Willem Dafoe is one of the best and proves it once again. I’ll leave it there. I can’t wait to see what you all think.
Spider-Man: No Way Home releases exclusively in theaters on December 17, 2021. Stay safe and enjoy.
Director: Jon Watts
Writers: Chris McKenna, Erik Sommers
Producers: Kevin Feige, Amy Pascal
Executive Producers: Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, JoAnn Perritano, Rachel O’Connor, Avi Arad, Matt Tolmach
Rated: PG-13
Runtime: 2h 28m
Rating: 4.5 out of 5