‘SPIDER-MAN 3’: THE FINAL ADVENTURE

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Darker perspectives and villains enter Peter’s life in this, the third and final film in the “original” franchise of the Spider-Man trio from Columbia Pictures and director Sam Raimi.

Spider-Man 3 (2007) Marvel Film Review

Everything is finally falling into place for Peter Parker (Tobey McGuire). The love of his life, Mary-Jane (Kirsten Dunst) is actually his girl, and she enjoys some success in a new Broadway play. He’s learning how to be there for MJ, and still honor his responsibilities as Spider-Man. His life gets complicated when meets again with his former friend Harry (James Franco). Time passes, and still Harry blames Spider-Man for the death of his father, and he’s looking for revenge. But without a chance to fix anything, Peter must first defeat Flint Marko (Thomas Hayden Church), a prison escapee with ties to Peter.

‘SPIDER-MAN 3’: THE FINAL ADVENTURE. A review of the 2007 third installment with Tobey McGuire and Kristen Dunst. Text © Rissi JC

Just when he is about to propose to MJ, an other-worldly substance looks for an earthly host, and finds Peter’s suit, which amplifies his powers. In turn, this causes him to become someone he doesn’t recognize. His greatest battles are just beginning.

If a series must “end,” this movie does so in style, right up until the final minutes which than falls flat. The script explores some interesting dynamics and if it weren’t for the ending, I may say this is a favorite. This one has lots of darker themes, which isn’t usually a favorite, but it’s interesting how the script depicts the ease with which someone can fall prey to temptations. This is what makes Peter’s journey (here) layered. This film is perhaps the most “realistic” in its messaging; instead of just external enemies, he also fights internal enemies.  

‘SPIDER-MAN 3’: THE FINAL ADVENTURE. A review of the 2007 third installment with Tobey McGuire and Kristen Dunst. #Movies #Marvel #WhattoWatch #MCU #SpiderMan #MovieArchives Click To Tweet
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Then there’s the romantic story that disappoints. With exception to the first fifteen or so minutes, Peter and MJ aren’t nearly as “cute” together. Instead they fight and argue, and actually, she and Harry are almost cuter together. The cast is still equally good and if anything is better this go-round by the addition of new characters and the return of favorites, J.K. Simmons and Elizabeth Banks; there’s also Topher Grace, and in a minor spot, Bruce Campbell (Burn Notice), plus we also meet Gwen Stacy (Bryce Dallas Howard). There are still some good characterizations, and I particularly enjoy Simmons’ crusty newspaper editor. The special effects are way bigger since movie one, and also more unbelievable, but they’re still cool. Really, it’s this kind of stuff super hero movies are made of.

If this movie has a failing, it’s the end. Coming off of a great, epic battle, the bottom seems to drop out as the anti-climatic close doesn’t answer every question. While this doesn’t diminish the enjoyment and excitement of the story, something is missing. Or perhaps it’s me that misses something. Until The Amazing Spider-Man makes its way into the world, this is my last analysis of Marvel’s Spider-Man, and what a fun journey it has been. From those first moments to here, Peter Parker has come a long way from that first handmade, pajama-like “spidey” suit.

CONTENT: Other than some “intense” battles, there is nothing too bothersome. There’s a battle in the air where people fall off buildings and crashing into glass. Kidnapping threatens someone. One man becomes a terrifying villain transforming into a black, werewolf like creature. Profanity is non-existent or very rare. The film is PG13.

About Rissi JC

amateur graphic designer. confirmed bookaholic. bubbl’r enthusiast. critical thinker. miswesterner. social media coordinator. writer.

3 comments

  1. Hahaha wow it's hard to believe this movie is that old already. I still haven't seen the newest Spiderman but I really like Andrew Garfield so I'm hoping it's as good as this series was.

    xoxo~ Renee

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