One of Marvel’s most iconic characters, Spider-Man has appeared in numerous movies, ranging from big-budget trilogies to cinematic universes and even the occasional animated film. Whenever he does appear, Spider-Man is met with much fanfare and rightfully so, as the character is one of the most popular comic characters of all time. Without further ado, here are the top 5 Spider-Man movies of all time!
5. Spider-Man (2002)
It may be a surprise to see the Sam Raimi film at the bottom of the list, but given that this is Spider-Man, it’s still a high honor. Along with X-Men in 2000, Spider-Man is often credited with reviving the popularity of comic book movies, after Batman and Robin tanked at the box office years prior. Is this credit warranted? Mostly. Aside from a few cheesy moments, the film works well as an origin story for everyone’s favorite web-slinger, with Tobey Maguire putting in a solid performance as Peter Parker. It may not be the best film to feature Spidey, but it’s hardly a bad one either.
4. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
After the failure of the Amazing Spider-Man film series, Spider-Man had an uncertain future. That is, until Marvel and Sony made a deal, resulting in the character’s arrival to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Although the character’s first appearance in the series was in 2016’s Captain America: Civil War, this film was his first headliner. And as far as first headliners go, this one is pretty good. Focusing on Spider-Man’s efforts to balance being a High School student and everyone’s favorite friendly neighborhood hero, he must deal both with heroes such as Tony Stark, aka Iron Man and villains such as Adrian Toomes, aka Vulture. Can Peter juggle his contrasting and often confounding responsibilities successfully?
While I can’t answer that just yet, I can say that this is a solidly fun and thrilling installment for Spider-Man and worth the price of admission.
3. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
Spider-Man’s second starring appearance in the MCU had big boots to fill. After Avengers: Endgame was a roaring success around the world, Spider-Man: Far From Home had to balance being both a worthy step forward for the MCU and a great film in its own right. To me, it accomplished both easily.
After the events of Endgame, Peter is once again re-adjusting to life as both a student and a superhero. Any aspirations of being a friendly neighborhood Spider-Man are put on hold however, when his class takes a trip to Europe. Or at least that’s what one would assume. Enter Mysterio, a masked vigilante who claims he can give Peter a chance to retire and enjoy the good life, which seems enticing after dealing with an array of problems abroad. Is he all that he claims to be, or is there something suspicious about this individual?
Whatever the answer, Spider-Man: Far From Home is immense fun from start to finish. The transition into Europe feels completely natural and the comedy and action blend together seamlessly. Overall, it’s a great film.
2. Spider-Man 2 (2004)
It’s often said that sequels are inferior to the first installment in their series. In Spider-Man 2’s case, that is far from the truth. Picking up where the first film left off, Peter Parker is starting to question whether being Spider-Man is worth the effort. Along the way, he meets Doctor Otto Octavius, a brilliant scientist who might be harboring a few secrets. Peril eventually runs amuck and Peter must question his choice to put the superhero life behind. Can he get back in the game, or is the world in a web of trouble?
Spider-Man 2 is a model for what superhero films should be, that is thrilling, engaging and fun. It takes what made the first film work and amplifies that to new heights.
1. Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse (2018)
Some may be surprised that the Spider-Man film considered the best isn’t one of the big budget live-action flicks, but rather an animated romp that doesn’t even star the Peter Parker version of Spider-Man. Indeed, Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse stars Shameik Moore as Miles Morales, one of many Spider-Mans featured in the film. Per the film’s title, Morales heads into a universe featuring many different Spider-Mans. Whatever differences they have become irrelevant when they must work together to defeat the nefarious Kingpin. Can they save the day, or will their disagreements prove too much?
Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse is a thoughtful, heartwarming rendition of the friendly neighborhood superhero. It’s easy for comic book fans and casual moviegoers alike to understand and the various versions of Spider-Man all get their chance to shine. With great characters, a fantastic storyline and a thrilling tone, it’s the best Spider-Man film.