In the new “Spider-Man: No Way Home” film, audiences watched as the multiple Marvel universes collided and all the Spider-Man’s met face to face. This collision in time allows us to see our favorite hero and his different portrayals all at once and pick out the similarities and differences between each performance.
The movie starring Tom Holland and Zendaya, as well as the actors from all previous Spider-Man films, broke records at the box office. It also got people thinking, who is the best Spider-Man?
There’s no doubt that Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield and Tom Holland all did the superhero justice in their respective movies, so we’re here to comment on the unique parts of each actor’s performance as Spider-Man.
Tobey Maguire
Maguire made his debut as Spider-Man in 2002 with the release of the first “Spider-Man” film. He was the first actor to step into the role, and in doing so, set the stage for how Peter Parker should be played.
Maguire plays Peter Parker well as he fits the nerdy and awkward profile of the character. It is evident throughout his films that the boy behind the Spider-Man mask is an outcast seeking redemption.
His entrance in “Spider-Man: No Way Home” was highly anticipated and according to viral TikTok videos of audiences in the theatres, satisfied the majority of fans. Maguire is the OG Peter Parker, and even to this day, there is no arguing that his performance shaped the Spider-Man legacy.
Andrew Garfield
When it was announced that Garfield would be taking the stage as Spider-Man next, it was evident that the movies would definitely be a different take on Peter Parker. Not only is he a known celebrity heartthrob, but his previous performances also signaled a sweeter side to Peter Parker being unveiled.
Garfield displays Peter Parker’s emotions in his glass box, displaying the fragile emotions of love and regret. This role really emotionally connected with fans as you follow Peter falling deep love with his first love, only to end up with a guilty conscience for not saving the love of his life. This is an emotional rollercoaster we can all connect with, having loved and lost before.
Tom Holland
As the most recent Spider-Man, Holland had a lot of expectations to live up to following two iconic performances by award-winning actors. Now with three of his own films and features in multiple Avengers films, Holland has proven himself to be worthy of the role.
The best part of Holland’s version of Peter Parker is that he truly looks like he could be in high school. The whole story of Spider-Man revolves around the idea that this incredible hero is only a kid. Holland maintains the innocence of Peter Parker, yet still manages to reveal the dark side of being Spider-Man and the tragic loss that comes with his responsibility.
The three actors are so seemingly different, yet they all perfectly captured who Spider-Man really is in their own unique ways. Tweet us, @VALLEYmag, with your favorite Spider-Man!
