Spider-Man: Brand New Day

Director: Destin Daniel Cretton

After the end of No Way Home the world has forgotten Spider-Man (Tom Holland) who now lives alone, where even those closest to him, have forgotten him. Peter focusses on fighting NYC’s bad guys while watching best friend Ned (Jacob Batalon) and his true love MJ (Zendaya) live the life the three had hoped to share. That changes when a mysterious force behind a series of robberies pulls Spider-Man back into their orbit, triggering changes in more ways than one!

Spider-Man is a rare superhero one allowed storylines that are hard for some of his contemporaries and Brand New Day proves that point. much more a story about change and friendship than a superhero film. And that leaves it a bit uneven, almost two films which only one works well.

What works less well is the superhero story which treads familiar ground. Spidey chases a foe for the good guys, before realising they may not be that good. While it has some good set pieces, and for the first time Spidey not looking like a computer game as he swings through New York. It is a little plodding, focussing on future film setup than a strong story in itself.

But what does work, works really well. Once past the adventure, you get a heart filled film about friendship, growing up, loneliness, and coming to terms with choices made. It gives us a film full of warmth and humour as Peter, MJ and Ned’s paths cross and having then deal with changes both mental and physical, and the impact those changes have on them all.

Holland is excellent, balancing superhero and lonely kid, and his scenes with Zendaya are full of humour and heartbreak. Jacob Batalon, John Bernthal and Florence Pugh bring fun, alongside enjoyable turns from Mark Ruffalo and Tramell Tillman. Sadie Sink also offers a solid MCU introduction.

At 2hr25, it’s too long, but the script is still fun, balancing quips with heart and hurt.

It’s not perfect, but as a story about relationships, change, love and loss, it’s a watchable, heartfelt tale that leaves a smile on your face.