Skip to main content

Spider-Man: Brand New Day (2026)


Spider-Man: Brand New Day is directed by Destin Daniel Cretton, the filmmaker behind Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, and he brings a welcome sense of energy and confidence to the latest chapter in Spider-Man's story. Cretton keeps the pacing brisk and knows exactly when to indulge in fan service without letting it completely overshadow the story. There are enough crowd-pleasing moments that longtime fans will likely leave satisfied, even if the film falls just short of true greatness.

Tom Holland, known for The Impossible and Spider-Man: No Way Home, gives what I consider to be his strongest performance as Peter Parker. I'm usually critical of his acting, but here he shows far more emotional range and confidence than in his previous appearances. Zendaya, known for Dune and Challengers, also delivers one of her best performances to date. Which if you know me, that is a considerable statement. The chemistry between the two feels more natural than ever, and both actors elevate material that might not have worked as well in earlier films.

Sadie Sink, known for Stranger Things and The Whale, is another standout, delivering a performance that surpasses her work in Stranger Things. Jon Bernthal, known for The Punisher and The Odyssey, steals nearly every scene he's in with impeccable comedic timing and undeniable charisma, proving once again how versatile he can be. Mark Ruffalo, known for Spotlight and the Avengers films, has a serviceable role but never leaves much of an impression. The weakest performances belong to Liza Colón-Zayas, known for The Bear, and Tramell Tillman, known for Severance. Since discussing one of those roles would venture into spoiler territory, I'll simply say that both performances felt unusually subdued and lacked the presence needed to make their characters memorable.

Overall, Spider-Man: Brand New Day is one of the stronger entries in Tom Holland's run as the web-slinger. While it doesn't quite achieve greatness, Destin Daniel Cretton delivers an enjoyable superhero film filled with exciting moments, improved performances from its leads, and enough fan service to keep audiences invested. It may not redefine the character, but it's an easy recommendation for both Spider-Man fans and general moviegoers. Result: A-

Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Iron Lung (2026)

Iron Lung (2026) is a contained sci fi horror film set almost entirely in one confined space, built around tension, isolation, and curiosity more than outright scares. The movie leans into claustrophobia and atmosphere over shock value. It feels closer to Pandorum than a traditional horror film. Knowing it is not a big budget production makes it easier to forgive some of its rough edges. Markiplier is  known primarily as a major YouTube creator and voice actor in projects like First  Nights at Freddy’s . He is the writer, director and star of the film. Carrying a one room film is not easy, especially without classical acting training, but he does a pretty good job. His performance is committed and focused, and he understands how to hold attention on himself without constant visual change. As a director and writer, he shows promise, especially with pacing and mood. Troy Baker , well known for voice roles in The Last of Us and BioShock Infinite , appears in the film, though...
Post a Comment
Read more

fjord (2026)

Fjord is written and directed by Cristian Mungiu , best known for 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days and Graduation , and features Sebastian Stan and Renate Reinsve . This film is about a lot of things, but at its core, it follows a family trying to get their children back after they are wrongfully taken by child protective services. Along the way, the story explores faith, religious persecution, cultural differences, resistance to change, and the importance of community. There are plenty of political interpretations that viewers can take from the film, but I think Mungiu does something more interesting than simply taking one side or the other. The film can be interpreted as pro-immigration and pro-LGB, while also being pro-Christian and supportive of traditional family values. Rather than forcing the story into one ideological corner, Mungiu allows these ideas to coexist, creating a film that encourages viewers to consider perspectives they might otherwise dismiss. I appreciate that ap...
Post a Comment
Read more

Bring Her Back (2025)

Bring Her Back is a slow-burning elevated horror that leans into grief, gore, and occult horror more than traditional jump scares. Directed by Danny and Michael Philippou , the duo behind Talk to Me , the film feels more confident this time around. The pacing is tight, the tone never wavers, and there isn’t a single wasted scene. It’s got that A24 signature of letting dread simmer just under the surface while slowly turning up the volume. Brutal when it needs to be, but never flashy for the sake of it. Billy Barratt takes the lead and does a solid job balancing emotion and shock. He plays it straight and raw, and while a few moments feel a bit much, it fits the role. He sells the trauma and anchors the early part of the story well. Sally Hawkins brings a quiet intensity as the grieving mother. She’s best known for The Shape of Water , and here she uses that same subtle expression work to say more than any dialogue could. Her screen time is limited, but she leaves a lasting mark. ...
Post a Comment
Read more