Pop Culture Thoughts

Rating: 8/10 (1 December 2018)

I'll be the first to admit that I'm not particularly well-versed in the Marvel Universe, having seen a few of the early Marvel superhero movies (2008's "Iron-Man" and "The Incredible Hulk") and then not much else since. However, I found myself having a great time watching this latest one: It's not particularly complicated, it's entertaining and well-paced, and the supporting cast (in particular Michael Keaton and the always-welcome Marisa Tomei) fit it perfectly well. However, this movie is all about Tom Holland as the young Spider-Man: He's charismatic, camera-ready, and has a knack for delivering expository dialogue with a nudge and a wink (not unlike the late Anton Yelchin). I personally was not excited for yet another Spider-Man movie (this being the sixth since 2002), but I was pleasantly surprised by how entertaining it is, and how the cast, director, writers and crew make it all seem effortless. A terrific summer diversion that's completely suitable for the whole family without being toothless or neutered.