Directed by Jon Watts
Written by Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley
Starring Tom Holland, Robert Downey Jr. and Michael Keaton
‘A Soaring Success’
Over the last decade or so, Spider-man has had a long run in movies. Perhaps, more than any other superhero he has appeared on screen many times. It all started with Sam Raimi’s fun and colorful movie which was released in 2002. Ever since then, we have seen many interpretations of this character on screen. In 2012, we got the reboot “The Amazing Spider-man”. However, it failed to meet the expectations of fans awaiting greatness. Then, came “The Amazing Spider-man 2”, which to put it lightly was anything but amazing.
Now, the web-slinging hero is back on the big-screen in the latest reboot “Spider-man: Homecoming”. A fresh, lighthearted take on the superhero, it is the spider-man film that fans have been waiting for. Packed with action, humor and plenty of laughs from start to finish, it delivers in every possible way. Let’s just say that if you’re a fan of spider-man, you will not be disappointed with “Spider-man: Homecoming”. It’s a refreshing and unique addition to the films that have been made about this iconic superhero. Spider-man fans can rejoice at the fact that their favorite superhero is finally back on the big-screen.
Although we’ve seen spider-man many times on screen, “Spider-man: Homecoming” offers a unique perspective on the titular hero. Instead of re-treading spider-man’s origin story, the film focuses on Peter Parker’s life as a teenager. Peter struggles to balance life as an ordinary high-school student and crime-fighting superhero. Although he is guided by his mentor Tony Stark, he faces the challenges that most adolescents do. When a new threat known as the Vulture emerges, Peter is determined to prove himself as a worthy superhero.
It’s a coming-of-age story that is unlike any spider-man movie ever made. Unlike previous spider-man movies, it truly understands what makes the character a fascinating superhero. It’s not the fact that he fights crime, but that he is simply a teenager dealing with life. If there is anyone that understands the essence of this superhero, it’s director Jon Watts. With the passion and enthusiasm of a fan, he brings to the table a distinct version of spider-man. “Spider-man: Homecoming” offers a cheerful and funny version of the web-slinging hero that we haven’t really seen before on the big-screen.
“Spider-man: Homecoming” marks a big departure from previous spider-man movies, mainly due to it’s sense of humor. Unlike other films in the genre which are dark and solemn, it’s a goofy movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously. There are plenty of laugh-loud-moments throughout the movie, especially in the high-school scenes. The jokes are sharp, witty and clever. Teens will certainly be able to relate to the humor, and so will anyone that has gone through high-school. Although the humor is aimed more towards teenagers than adults, it works really well. Spider-man is a fun-loving superhero with a great sense of humor and that really comes through in this movie.
Casting is top-notch as well. Given that we’ve already seen two memorable actors play this iconic role, it is not easy to cast a new spider-man. However, they couldn’t have picked a better actor for the job than Tom Holland. Charming, charismatic and lively, he brings to life a fresh interpretation of the character that we’ve never seen before. Not only does he capture Peter Parker’s innocent and nerdy personality, but he embodies the fun-loving spirit of spider-man. It’s a lot of pressure to play a character that is this iconic and beloved, but Tom Holland pulls it off with ease. It’s a star-making performance that elevates the movie to another level.
It’s hard to not mention the supporting cast which is also excellent. Ned Batalon is hilarious as Peter’s best friend Ned. Michael Keaton is menacing and brings surprising depth to the main villain. And finally, it’s great to see Robert Downey Jr. return to his iconic role as Tony Stark/Iron Man.
Despite the best efforts of these actors, however, “Spider-man: Homecoming” is not a film without flaws. Although it is undeniably entertaining from start to finish, the film is overlong. I was never bored while watching the movie, but felt it dragged towards the end. The final action sequence is a huge CGI battle that goes on for longer than necessary. If the filmmakers had paid more attention to the editing, it would have elevated the movie from being merely good to a great comic-book film.
Nevertheless, as a whole, “Spider-man: Homecoming” lives up to the hype. Fun, fresh and funny, it delivers everything that spider-man fans could have hoped for. The film has already been called the best spider-man movie to date, and it’s easy to see why. After many years, it’s a joy to see the world’s favorite web-slinging hero back on the big-screen.
4/5 stars
The Film Buff 
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