I think it’s safe to say we’re back. As in, Marvel is properly back. Walking out of my screening of “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” I felt that same MCU magic I’d been missing for years.
- Rating: 4/5 stars
- Verdict: "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" is a spectacular fresh chapter for Peter Parker, offering plenty of emotional storytelling, thrilling action and genuine Marvel magic. Tom Holland delivers his strongest performance as Spidey yet, proving this new chapter isn’t just about nostalgia, but building an exciting future.
- Where to watch: "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" is in theaters on July 31
Ever since “Avengers: Endgame,” there’s been a near-universal feeling that the universe has lost some of its momentum, even if genuine high points like “Guardians of the Galaxy 3,” “Thunderbolts” and “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” briefly rekindled that old excitement. “Brand New Day” takes its title literally, giving us a fresh new chapter for Tom Holland’s Peter Parker while paving the way for an exciting new era for Marvel.
In the aftermath of Doctor Strange’s memory spell, Peter Parker lives in complete isolation, dedicating every waking moment to protecting New York City as Spider-Man. Cut off from MJ and Ned, the intense toll of full-time heroics triggers a dangerous evolution in his superpowers. As he crosses paths with an unlikely ally in Frank Castle (Jon Bernthal), Peter must battle a sinister, invisible new threat capable of mind manipulation, and learn to reclaim his humanity before losing himself entirely.
“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” serves as the 38th film in the MCU and a key pillar of Phase Six, making it one of Marvel’s most highly anticipated releases in years. Following the massive reset at the end of “No Way Home,” it carries the challenge of reinventing Peter’s journey while grounding the franchise in a way we haven’t seen for some time. While I won’t be giving away any spoilers, I can share my honest thoughts on this new Marvel film and why you should be prepared for what comes next.
Marvel is back in the swing of things
“Spider-Man: No Way Home” was one of the biggest cinematic events in Marvel history. Not only did it deliver one of the franchise’s most heartbreaking deaths (poor Aunt May), but it also embraced the multiverse in a way fans had never seen before, bringing together three generations of Spider-Man and delivering shocking cameos that kept audiences talking for months afterwards. Recreating that level of spectacle for the franchise was always going to be a huge challenge, but I’m glad “Brand New Day” doesn’t try to repeat that. Instead, it takes us back to the streets of New York and tells a more emotional story.
I truly loved the opening of “Brand New Day.” Peter is doing what he does best, tinkering with his web-shooters while talking to his new AI assistant, E.V. Right now, she’s his only real companion, as the world has completely forgotten who he is. He spends much of his time watching Ned’s (Jacob Batalon) videos on social media, keeping up with what his old friends are doing, especially now that Ned and MJ (Zendaya) are attending MIT. The film does an excellent job of showing just how lonely Peter has become, and the pain of loving MJ while she has no memory of their life together.
This emotional foundation gives the film so much strength, and it allows Tom Holland to deliver what is arguably his strongest performance yet, not just as Spider-Man, but as Peter Parker.
He knows the only way to keep himself sane is by embracing the one thing he has left: being the web-slinging hero the city has come to adore, solving local crimes and helping the police force. But the trauma of watching the woman he loves and his best friend move on without him, combined with the physical demands of being a superhero, eventually begins to take its toll. These changes play a huge role in how Peter adapts to his new lifestyle.
Of course, “Brand New Day” isn’t just about its emotional moments. Much of the film’s humor comes from the incredible dynamic between Spider-Man and Jon Bernthal’s Punisher. As you already know, the two have very different morals and approaches to solving problems, making their interactions on screen incredibly entertaining to watch. There are also some visually stunning fight sequences, with new combat styles for Spidey and a particularly exciting sequence involving the Hulk (Mark Ruffalo). When these action scenes are woven into the story, it’s pure Marvel magic.
I know most people will want to know about Sadie Sink’s mysterious character, but I’m not giving anything away other than the fact that her performance is one of the best in the film. That’s all I’ll say on that, but just know she leaves a huge impression.
The same can’t be said for every character, though, with villains like Scorpion (Michael Mando) and Tombstone (Marvin Jones III) feeling particularly underused. They get very little screen time, often feeling more like additions designed to please comic fans. “Brand New Day” does occasionally lean into fan service, but thankfully these moments are fleeting, and the film never loses sight of its emotional core.
“Spider-Man: Brand New Day” is a great time, and its ability to tell a more character-driven story while still including plenty of humor, inventive fight sequences and twists is genuinely impressive. It’s also a heartbreaking yet beautiful journey about what it truly means to be alone, focusing squarely on Peter’s isolation and his struggle to hold onto his humanity. Destin Daniel Cretton’s direction and the visual team deserve all the praise for their practical stunt work and brilliant cinematography.
Verdict: Marvel’s future has never looked more promising after ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’
Without a doubt, “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” delivers the most character-driven and mature Spidey story we’ve seen in over 19 years since “Spider-Man 3.” The film nails the action, with remarkable web-swinging sequences across New York that feel like they’ve been pulled straight from the PlayStation games and stand among the best the franchise has ever showcased.
The cast shines across the board, but Sadie Sink is a massive standout, and it pains me not being able to talk about her role right now (it just means you have to experience it for yourself). Watching Frank Castle and Peter Parker butt heads on the big screen is an absolute blast, and I’m so glad Bernthal gets plenty of screen time, because their dynamic makes this such a fun time.
I can’t say much else in fear of spoiling the best surprises, but “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” sets up an exciting future, so be prepared for what’s coming next! My Spider-Sense tells me this is just the beginning of something special.
"Spider-Man: Brand New Day" is in theaters on July 31
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