It is hard to believe it’s been 5 years since Spider-Man graced the big screen. I think it’s safe to say that myself, and everyone else, couldn’t be happier to see him return. Spider-Man Brand New Day picks up shortly after the events of No Way Home, with Peter, having been forgotten by everyone he loves, becoming a more street level or friendly neighborhood Spider-Man if you will. This is a take on the character that we’ve seen briefly in other films but not to this extent. In his first three MCU entries Spider-Man has been seen as the protégé of Tony Stark and even having tech built into his suits to assist his crime fighting. This time around he is a far more grounded and back to basics version of the character. Yes he uses suit cameras and has a sort of AI built into his hideout for assists but the Spider-Man we see in this film is purely on his own. Director Destin Daniel Cretton beautifully handles this new chapter of his journey.

Tom Holland, Zendaya and Jacob Batalon all return to their respective roles, with some new additions to an MCU film, such as Jon Bernthal as Frank Castle and Sadie Sink in a role that isn’t so secret anymore but I’ll withhold to avoid spoilers. While boasting a truly amazing cast, this is Tom Hollands movie. He portrays an older, more mature and emotionally distant Spider-Man. Given the events of the last film this plot point is handled very well and we get to see Spidey sort of reintegrate himself slowly back into society as both himself and as Peter Parker. The action and set pieces in the film are absolutely stunning, but the scenes where Holland interacts with his co stars are genuinely just as engaging and satisfying. Even four movies in and Holland and Co are still able to bring such emotion and depth to these characters and universe. The entire cast has absolutely amazing chemistry but a standout for me has to be the banter between Spider-Man and the Punisher. After seeing Frank in such dark material it’s refreshing to see him in a lighter environment, which is something I was having doubts about since its announcement.

I honestly can’t say enough good things about Brand New Day. From the direction, to the cast, to the fight choreography led by Peng Zhang and the Jackie Chan stunt team. That is a spectacle in of itself. Featuring incredible camera work and absolutely clean fight scenes that are reminiscent of those seen in 2021’s Shang-Chi. Destin Daniel Cretton and all involved with this film have crafted something truly special with Spider-Man Brand New Day and every frame of the movie emits so much love and care for the characters. If Avengers Doomsday is half as good as Brand New Day the MCU could set a course back into fans good graces.

10/10.