‘Spider-man’ reboot stays true to comic book roots

Maytinee Kramer/ Opinion Director

“Spider-Man: Homecoming” has officially swung into theaters, reviving the story of Peter Parker/Spider-man with a fresh and funny take for all ages. But what makes this third big screen depiction stand out from the previous films is how it succeeds in staying true to the original comic’s’ roots.

Many were probably exasperated at the thought of yet another Spider-Man reboot. But we really did need another one.

Right from the start, the superhero movie got my attention—and not because Tom Holland was portraying the character—but because Marvel finally took control of the franchise and got right back to the basics.

Comic book readers—or “true believers,” as Stan Lee likes to call them—have followed and loved the web-slinger because his human alter-ego, Peter Parker, struggles with the same everyday life issues as the average joe. Parker was made of fun of by his classmates. He was not the most popular guy in school. Holland brought forth the kid who had to balance doing the right thing with passing Spanish class.

Any “true believer” would’ve also been excited to see the characters surrounding Peter Parker in the comics because all had a great presence in movie. We got to see Parker’s best friend Ned, his crush Liz, his bully Flash, and even Betty Brant (who was introduced in “Amazing Fantasy.”) All this was further made unique by the diversity of the cast—all represent ethnic-minority groups—portraying these characters.

“Spider-Man: Homecoming” also didn’t have the typical ‘larger than life’ story of saving the world from certain doom and destruction. It was simply a hero trying to stop a bad guy.

Additionally, viewers weren’t bored with another origin story. We all know how Spider-man came to be, and all we needed, which the movie delivered, a quick scene where Peter tells his friends that he got bit by a spider.  

Another truly refreshing characteristic of the movie is the fact we can empathize with the Vulture, played by Michael Keaton. Keaton portrays the infamous villain as a blue-collar guy, out to make a buck and a decent living. The character finds himself forced into his life of crime after his legitimate business of cleaning up after superhero aftermath is intercepted by Tony Stark, leaving him jobless and out of money.

“Spider-Man: Homecoming” also manages remain hip with the youth while staying true to longtime fans by interspersing action and comedy, giving the movie the light-hearted feel we all needed.

However, with all good things comes some bad. One important point that I was disappointed with was Peter’s lack of spider senses. I am unsure whether this was a conscious decision or just something that didn’t show up in the film, but this was one special ability that made Spider-man who he is. Without it, it doesn’t quite feel like a complete Spider-man.

The film overall balanced lighthearted fun with emotional growth and had a plot that was well tied together. Tom Holland made a great Spider-man because he was able to capture the original essence of Peter Parker, delivering both the superhero and his alter ego.

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The opinions presented within this page do not represent the views of Panther Press Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect individual perspectives of contributing writers and/or members of the University community.

Photo taken from Flickr.