Is “Spider-Man: No Way Home” a Home-run?

Tanya Colodner

Does “Spider-Man: No Way Home” do our favorite web-slinger justice?

Tanya Colodner, Staff Writer

Directors: Jon Watts, Chris McKenna and Erik Sommers

Release Date: Dec. 17, 2021

Starring: Tom Holland (Peter Parker), Zendaya (MJ), Jacob Batalon (Ned Leeds), Marisa Tomei (Aunt May), Williem Dafoe (Green Goblin), Alfred Molina (Doc Ock)

Our Rating: A+

“Spider-Man: No Way Home” is the third installment in the Spider-Man series following Peter Parker (played by Tom Holland) through the trials and tribulations of being both a high schooler and a superhero. This newest installment blends the iconic fight scenes seen in superheroes movies with beautiful cinematography, creating a new era in superhero movies.

Our favorite Spider has been recently unmasked to the public, causing personal turmoil and affecting the lives of everyone he loves. As an attempt to mend his mistakes and regain his old life, he seeks out the help of a wizard: Doctor Strange When all doesn’t go according to plan, Peter Parker must face challenges that will test him in new ways. This dilemma shows a new side of being a superhero to the viewers: the moral and ethical problems that come along with being the judge, jury and executioner.

“I loved this movie so much, I watched it two more times. I love the surprises and old characters making an appearance. They managed to add those moments in without it feeling gimmicky and cringe. It filled in a lot of open holes in Peter Parker’s story and also opened up a whole new future for him. This movie truly proves that everything is Jake Gyllenhaal’s fault,” freshman Luanna Gunther said.

This 148-minute blockbuster explores the deeper attributes of Peter Parker and his relationships when they are put to the test. This is what makes this movie so mesmerizing, as it brings a whole ambience to our previously conceived notion of what exactly a hero is. We are gifted with a deeper view into the mental toll that Peter is facing after the events of “Spider-Man: Far From Home”. Peter now faces the big world with no mask to protect him, leaving him exposed. Although filled with heart-wrenching scenes, “No Way Home” holds onto the witty humor and heart that we’ve all grown to love from our Spidey.

Similarly, the amazing acting also contributes to the overall plot. Tom Holland brings deepness and compassion to the role of Peter Parker that both other franchises attempted to. Peter Parker and MJ’s (played by Zendaya) chemistry is unbelievable and perfectly portrayed on the big screen. Their acting captures the essence of exactly what a high school relationship is; goofiness, youth and emotion. Acting seen in classic villains such as Doc Ock and Green Goblin — along with other surprise cameos — gave us a new insight into the rationale behind villandry. Williem Dafoe (Green Goblin) plays into a sense of madness that leaves viewers with chills.

“This movie is definitely my favorite Marvel has ever made. The characters are witty and the plot is meaningful and lived up to all expectations,” freshman Daniella Sanchez said.

This movie deserves a watch for the holiday season. “Spider-Man: No Way Home” is a story of love, nostalgia, and heartbreak we don’t often get in a superhero movie. The element of surprise keeps you on the edge of your seat and opens up so much for the future of our dearest web-slinger that viewers can’t wait to see.