An evaluation on the theme of maturity in The Amazing Spiderman

Rating: 8/10 (29 June 2012)

To me Spiderman has always been an allegory for growing up. What separates teen from adult is the recognition of responsibility, and Marc Webb captures this element magnificently in his interpretation. For that reason alone I give this film an 8. Let me discuss this attribute further.
The first of four stages into growing into an adult begins when Parker forgets to pick up Aunt May despite Uncle Ben's emphatic reminder. This seems acceptable because Parker had only recently been bitten, and it makes logical sense that one experiments with and indulges in newfound superpowers. But this speaks for an aspect of human nature epitomized by Freud's famous quote: "A child would destroy the world if it had the power". If Parker combines his superhuman powers with his outstanding affinity for science, then the world easily becomes his playground. He could wreck the city without knowing it. Webb establishes this point by comically portraying his inability to control his grip strength over common bathroom appliances. Parker lacks a sense of responsibility; Uncle Ben will pay with his life to instill it in him.
When Parker abets a robbery by accepting milk from the thief, he unknowingly jeopardizes the foundation of his morals. Parker was indignant about the storekeeper's lack of empathy about him not being able to pay two cents to buy his milk, so he doesn't stop the robbery when he has the power to. This concludes in a moving tragedy, in which Uncle Ben attempts to stop the robbery and receives a lethal bullet wound. This reforms Parker, as he is convinced of the fatality his moment of moral uncertainty has caused.
The third stage takes place when Parker forgets to bring home the eggs, and the fourth stage is when Parker DOES bring home the eggs. The subtle transition marks Parker's transition from understanding that with great power comes great responsibility, but great responsibility encapsulates all of the smaller ones as well. Just because one is on top of the world, it doesn't mean that he is allowed to disregard his social responsibilities from filial piety to ethical conduct.