Spider-Man: No Way Home
Dustin Chase
Arguably another remake, “Spider-Man: No Way Home” marks the third solo film for Tom Holland and the franchise’s most complex plot to date. Ironically, the most simplistic new release this week is the one film that focuses on the future instead of the past.
For years, this critic has delivered harsh criticism toward Marvel and superhero franchises, begging for an end to “saving the world” plots that only allow characters external focus.
“Spider-Man: No Way Home” finally delivers not only a fresh and unique spin on story and plot within the Spider-Man franchise and Marvel Universe but affords Holland genuine moments of internal exploration with the character.
I dare say that Holland gives one of, if not the best performance in the MCU films. Taking the focus off the battle or universe-saving allows so much more growth and development in the characters. This certainly isn’t the first of these films to focus on responsibility of power and consequence; it just hits closer to home this time.
I dare say that Holland gives one of, if not the best performance in the MCU films.
Screenwriters Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers pull off an impressive feat of assimilating the storylines from the conclusive elements of “Avengers: Endgame,” which include reuniting Peter Parker and Dr. Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) as well as bringing elements from “the multiverse,” or characters from previous Spider-Man versions.
Another plus is you don’t necessarily have to see (or remember) all the Spider-Man films, or even the previous two with Holland, “No Way Home” functions mostly on its own merit.
The writers integrate current social media obsessions, media conspiracy theories and more into the continuing saga of Parker not only grappling with his awesome power as this web-slinging superhero but maturing into an adult.
Final Thought
“No Way Home” is wonderfully ridiculous and surprisingly emotional.