SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME – Review

Who’s ready for a holiday road trip? Oh, the destination? It’s Christmas time in the Marvel Cinematic Universe! Yes, I know we’ve been there three times before in the last six months or so, from BLACK WIDOW to SHANG-CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE TEN RINGS, and most recently THE ETERNALS, but this is more than a bit unique. First, it’s another co-production with Sony, one that somewhat completes a trilogy. And though it is a journey forward with our favorite “wall-crawler” it also takes a side turn down “memory lane”. In that way, it’s a bit of a celebration since he swung into the comic book world sixty years ago next August, and this coming May it’ll be his twentieth-year “thwipping” through the big screen. But for all that time, poor Peter Parker can’t seem to catch a break with his new amazing adventure, SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME

As you recall from the mid-credits sequence of the last flick Ole’ Pete (Tom Holland) is in big trouble. Blowhard video-blogger J. Jonah Jameson (J.K. Simmons) has revealed his identity to the world while accusing him of murdering Mysterio and unleashing a horde of deadly drones. But the media and law enforcement also go after GF MJ (Zendaya), BFF Ned (Jacob Batalon), Aunt May (Marisa Tomei), and even ‘Happy’ Hogan (Jon Favreau). Of course, this news torpedos the high school trio’s applications to MIT. How in the world can Pete fix this? He can’t just “web it up”. And his big “alibi”, Nick Fury, is “off-world”. Hey, he’s just blocks away from the “sanctum sanatorium” of his “Endgame” cohort, the master of mystic arts, Dr. Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch). After much pleading, the doc decides to grant Pete’s request by casting a complex spell that will make everyone forget that he’s Spidey. Unfortunately, Strange is distracted by Pete’s “add-ons” (except MJ…and Ned…and…). But it looks like everything’s under control as Peter tries to talk with an MIT recruiter that’s stuck in traffic. Suddenly an armored tentacle bursts through the pavement. It’s Dr. Otto Octavius (Alfred Molina), who recognizes Spider-Man, but is baffled by his unfamiliar voice (he’s a stranger to Pete) Then a cackling green troll tosses an explosive pumpkin-like grenade. The Green Goblin AKA Norman Osborn (Willam Dafoe) is on the attack. Later Strange explains that the flawed spell has opened up multiple portals to other dimensions, unleashing many unfamiliar “super-villains”. Can Spidey and Strange, with assists from MJ, Ned, and Happy (who’s got some old Stark tech) capture these powerful “baddies” and send them back? With the Avengers scattered, can anyone else help them out?

Once again, the talented Mr. Holland slips into the dual lead role as though it’s a pair of comfy old sneakers (perhaps more like a pair of “web-shooters”). He retains Pete’s infectious energy and optimism even though his whole world seems to be collapsing in on him. More than in the last two films, there’s much more at stake as his alter ego intrudes on the lives of those he cherishes the most. Holland communicates that through his often halting line delivery, which speeds up as Pete formulates a strategy at “Spidey-speed”. He proves that the character does indeed work best as a high-schooler (but not for much longer). Zendaya’s MJ still has that endearing snark, tinged with her near-pitch-black sense of humor, now tempered with her affection for Pete and the need to support and protect him. Much the same can be said for Batalon as Ned, still loving his role as “the guy in the chair”, but eager to take on more (which happens “in spades”). Tomei channels more of May Parker’s generous empathetic soul, when she’s not in “mama grizzly” mode to protect her dear Pete. Favreau is still a funny lovable “schlub” who’s often Pete’s mentor and cantankerous “Dutch Uncle”. And on the opposite side, several screen vets seem to be relishing their return to villainy. Molins is a malevolent megalomaniac who is baffled by his new, but “old”, enemy. Ditto for Dafoe, whose Osborn is in almost constant battle with the scheming Goblin. Oh, and Jamie Foxx is back as Max/Electro who appears to love hurling insults alongside his deadly lightning bolts. Luckily Cumberbatch as the good doctor/wizard is there to reign them in while proving to be another great teacher/coach and father figure to Pete.

Returning to the director’s chair is Jon Watts, who proves most adept at juggling the action, comedy, and drama, keeping the pace steady while still hitting all the emotional “beats” of the script penned by some more series vets, Chris McKenna and Eric Summers. It’s quite an impressive balancing act, since several action epics often lurch about, changing done as they speed to the next big action sequence. Mind you, the great stunts and VFX are here “a plenty”, but what stays longest may be the quiet moments as unlikely characters bond despite bickering. Best of all Spidey remains a beacon of light amongst so many “grim and gritty” masked crimebusters (though he’s put to the test many times here). He continues to cling to the hope that people can change. And while other film franchises try to ignore or even discard their past incarnations, this endearing romp embraces all the quirks and foibles of its forebearers. That’s heightened by the sprightly score from Michael Giacchino which seamlessly weaves in iconic melodies. And though many may see this tale as a conclusion (at least to the “home” subtitles), its finale announces a new start (buoyed by word that Holland and Marvel will continue with Sony for another trilogy). SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME is a celebration of the past, a touching look ahead, and an affectionate nod to the faithful fans of the beloved character. Somewhere Stan “the man” Lee is flashing that big grin…

4 Out of 4

SPIDER-MAN: NO WAY HOME is playing in theatres everywhere