The Amazing Spider-Man

Release Date: Jul 03, 2012  

Runtime: 2 hr. 16 min. 

Director: Marc Webb 

Cast: Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Denis Leary, Martin Sheen, Sally Field. 

Reboots, remakes, whatever you call it, can be a win or lose situation. On the one hand, it's a chance to atone for past mistakes and put a new spin on things. On the other, it's an unnecessary gamble, especially when its predecessor has barely been forgotten. Regardless of the matter, the "Spider-Man" reboot takes a daring leap of faith, and it seems befitting that it's directed by none other than a guy called Webb. Despite touting the 'untold story' route, the refurbished tale has not changed much from what we know. It still maintains the backbone of the web-slinger's roots as depicted in Sam Raimi's version, while modifying its features closer to the original comicbook. No, the real adjustment here comes in the form of its two leads, Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone, and there lies the difference that makes this update so 'amazing.' The problem with Tobey Maguire's Peter Parker was that he lacked bravado. It was hard to believe that he could scale building tops and fight crime when his own bookish alter ego was so painstakingly monotonous. Garfield is the exact opposite. His awkward, introverted persona is well balanced with his vigilante side, which in turn is imbued with self-confidence. To top it off, his chemistry with Stone as Gwen Stacy is so convincing and pivotal to the romantic subplot, that it's a shame she can't double as Mary Jane in future sequels. Not to be overlooked, the visual territory has undergone a drastic transformation as well. Darker and sleeker, the saturated colors of the revamped suit really pop against the backdrop; and the addition of the Spidey-view makes it all the more exciting. Still, a reboot doesn't cure all imperfections as it does alleviate them. The cheesiness is still present, albeit toned down and less intrusive. And Garfield's Spider-Man occasionally comes off as arrogant, though not in the way that Robert Downey Jr. can pull it off. In any case, Marc Webb puts forth a valiant effort and it pays off, both on screen and at the box office. Unfortunately for him, the victory will be short-lived as "The Dark Knight Rises" rapidly approaches.

Rating: 3½ stars