‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ remembers what the comics have always been about—a man who keeps getting back up, even at his lowest. If you are looking for a typical superhero flick, hitting action beats and cameos and not much else, look elsewhere.

This movie is deeply emotional, more mature than anything in the 'Home' trilogy. The characters have grown up; Ned and MJ have moved on, leaving Peter Parker trying to make his way alone—a difficult feat with or without superpowers. The film speaks to the current moment on multiple levels: the age of connection is also the age of isolation, where relationships are mediated by screens.

The movie parallels our cultural struggle with AI. It’s easier than ever to generate content that looks like a movie, photo, or comic, but not one. Box-office results for superhero movies are far from their 2019 peak, and simply churning out assembly-line blockbusters does not guarantee success. Instead, Brand New Day feels lovingly made by people who understand the characters and trust the audience to feel something.

It reads as a continuation of what Thunderbolts (i.e., the New Avengers) started—superhero storytelling grounded in darker, more emotional territory. Sadie Sink’s character brings a great deal to the movie’s emotional tenor. The way her character works alongside Tom Holland and Zendaya adds an emotional intensity rooted in their real-life relationship.

There are cameos, plot twists, fun action sequences, and plenty of Easter eggs for fans of the comics and games. While the set pieces aren’t as enormous or impactful as we’ve come to expect from bigger Marvel and Avengers outings, they are entertaining with a handful of visually striking moments.