Spider-Man: Brand New Day, out July 31, can be summarized in one word: authentic.
Directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and written by Chris McKenna & Erik Sommers, the film sees Peter Parker (played by Tom Holland) adapting to his new life following the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home. With his Aunt May gone and his loved ones left with no memory of who he is, Peter has dedicated himself entirely to being Spider-Man. As the pressure of being a full-time superhero finally hits a breaking point, the webslinger is forced to face a powerful and dangerous new threat
“Authentic” is the best way to describe this movie on multiple fronts. First off, this is arguably the most “true-to-character” Spider-Man film from the Holland era. There’s no Iron Man or multiversal Spider-Men here to play backup. This is Holland playing Spider-Man the way fans have been waiting for: in New York City, on the ground, fighting small potato bad guys. He’s working with local cops, he’s looking out for people on the street, and he’s cracking wise the whole time he’s doing it. As much as you may have loved the last three movies, there’s no denying that this is Holland doing Spider-Man the way that comic fans have recognized and loved the character for over six decades.
The way Spider-Man interacts with the larger MCU also feels authentic and not forced. It makes sense that Holland’s Spider-Man would interact with Jon Bernthal’s Punisher since they’re both New York-based (and the characters have a history in the comics). Their interactions feel natural, and in fact are a high point of a movie that’s already very fun to watch. The fact that Holland and Bernthal are friends in real life also lends to the authenticity of the flick; when these two bicker, it feels real.
However, more than anything else, “authentic” is the word to be used when describing the direction by Cretton and the work by the whole production crew. Holland’s Spidey suit looks more real and true-to-life than it ever has. The web-swinging has real weight to it and you can feel it in the pit of your stomach. The Hulk (who isn’t in the movie as much as some of the marketing might make you think) looks better than he ever has on film. The whole team has clearly put a ton of time and effort into making this movie feel like a unique cinematic experience rather than generic superhero fodder. Brand New Day has a distinct voice and style that has been absent from the MCU, particularly in recent years.
That’s it! That’s all you’re going to get. Go into Spider-Man: Brand New Day with as little information as you can and enjoy the ride.
