Everyone hates Spider-Man 3 for the wrong reason

Everyone hates Spider-Man 3 for the wrong reason

For 17 long years have I carried this heavy burden, knowing deep down in my guts that everyone, and I mean everyone, was wrong about “Spider-Man 3“. I’ve seen the disdainful looks, heard the derisive laughter, and felt the collective scorn of fans and critics alike. But I couldn’t let it go. You see, I was there when Sam Raimi brought Peter Parker’s story to life on the big screen for a third time. I watched as Tobey Maguire beautifully portrayed the angst-ridden, guilt-stricken young man, struggling to balance his personal life with his superhero persona. And in that third installment, I saw something truly special – a coming of age story that resonated with me on a deeply personal level.


I’ve borne this heavy burden for 17 long years: the weight of knowing that everyone had it wrong about a movie. I faced this challenge with dignity, aware that there are those who endure greater hardships (perhaps dedicated fans of Stargate). Yet, unjust situations demand action, not apathy. And so, I reveal the truth: For nearly 20 years, everyone has been mistaken about Spider-Man 3.

Everyone hates Spider-Man 3 for the wrong reason

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Sam Raimi’s 2007 follow-up to the top-notch superhero film he made in 2004 has gone through some ups and downs in public perception over the years. Initially, it was viewed as the weaker link in Raimi’s impressive trilogy (with Spider-Man 2 being the clear standout). However, more recently, fans have come to see its quirky elements and unique portrayal of a troubled Peter Parker in a new light. The film’s underlying warmth and affection for the character have resonated with viewers, leading to a greater appreciation for Raimi’s interpretation.

I’ve always held a soft spot for “Spider-Man 3.” Sure, there are aspects of the film that have been mercilessly memed over the years, like Tobey Maguire’s dancing. But let me tell you, that was never the true issue. The real problem ran much deeper and was far more substantial: It shifted the blame for Uncle Ben’s death away from Peter Parker.

In the film “Spider-Man 3,” the storyline begins with a surprising twist: Flint Marko, introduced as a new villain and nicknamed The Sandman, is revealed to be the true killer of Peter’s uncle, not just an accomplice as previously believed. This discovery deeply angers Peter, making him vulnerable to the alien costume that later tries to attach itself to him. As a result, Peter’s actions threaten to damage all his precious relationships.

Everyone hates Spider-Man 3 for the wrong reason
Everyone hates Spider-Man 3 for the wrong reason

The storyteller’s reasoning behind this decision may be comprehensible, but I strongly disagree with it for the portrayal of Peter Parker in any given story. It’s not just about the spider bite or the iconic costume; instead, I believe that the core of Peter Parker lies in his unwavering guilt over Uncle Ben’s death. He believes he could have prevented it and feels responsible, leading him to make a vow to always act and never stand idly by again.

The common belief is that Spider-Man’s popularity stems from his relatability, working class background, and the fact that anyone could potentially wear his full costume in the predominantly white comic book era of the 1960s. While these factors are significant, I believe the primary reason for his enduring appeal is: Spider-Man’s longevity can be attributed to the inner turmoil embedded in his origin story. Rather than a coming-of-age tale that resonates with audiences, it is the contrast between such a story and one that falls flat that keeps us engaged.

If you take a look back at the classic Steve Ditko and Stan Lee comics featuring Peter, you’ll find an intriguing quirk about him that still resonates with me as a fan: he holds a grudge. Bitter about being bullied for his nerdy nature, Peter clings to his newfound powers following the unfortunate accident that transformed him into Spider-Man. In today’s world, he might easily find solace in certain online communities where his negative emotions could be fueled and intensify into something truly harmful.

In the 1960s, “60s Peter” is similarly affected by a tragic event, for which he bears full responsibility. No one can absolve him of blame; instead, he must confront and manage the consequences daily.

Over time, the irritability of those comics fades, making way for improvement. Donning a ludicrous outfit and assuming a nobler persona, he gradually adopts these qualities within himself.

Everyone hates Spider-Man 3 for the wrong reason

In simpler terms, comic book superheroes are designed to remain unchanged, thriving in their perpetual struggles. Contrarily, films have conclusions, and reinterpreting superheroes within this framework can lead to intriguing character developments once they experience an end. For instance, the Spider-Man trilogy doesn’t completely wrap up Peter Parker’s story but does bring his coming-of-age journey to a close. Throughout three movies, Peter finishes high school, attends college, starts a career, falls in love, and nearly loses it all due to self-centeredness – only to rebuild his life with humility and the hope that those he cares about will still accept him. This is a captivating progression, yet it doesn’t delve into who Peter becomes without his guilt or what motivates him now. (Hypothetically, Spider-Man 4 might have explored this further, but it hasn’t been made due to possibly repeating an already concluded story.)

The query of whether Spider-Man should continue to exist is worth pondering. Comic book superheroes and corporate intellectual property often keep characters stagnant or barely changing, leading audiences to eventually lose interest. However, Spider-Man endures as an exception, perhaps because his suspense keeps us engaged. Despite defying this in one significant way, “Spider-Man 3” acknowledges this in its conclusion. As Peter and MJ stand on the edge of potential reconciliation amidst an uncertain future, they’ve grown up but their adult lives are for them to shape. Will there still be a Spider-Man? Time will tell. And here concludes our discussion.

A mentally balanced person would simply let go and carry on from past mistakes, but Spider-Man’s tale is not about maturing into such an individual. Instead, it’s about confronting your most challenging moments when you’ve been at your lowest, and taking action. It’s about refusing to be consumed by life’s injustices and contributing positively, no matter the circumstances. And this continuous process of improvement is a goal – something that Peter Parker strives for every day as The Amazing Spider-Man.

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2024-07-16 19:19

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