After the emotionally draining Infinity War followed by the exhilarating and draining Endgame, Spider-Man: Far From Home is just the movie we needed. Warning, spoilers ahead…
So much of Far From Home reminds me of the teen romance comedies of the 80’s and early 90’s. And that’s not a bad thing at all. If anything, it only adds to the movie’s charm. I’ll also add that this film for my money solidifies Tom Holland as the definitive Peter Parker. As for Far From Home, it ushers in the next phase of the MCU while officially closing Phase 3. Here we find Peter trying to adjust to life after the snap or the blip as it is called. And, not to mention the death of Tony Stark and his formidable shadow that he casts. Peter along with his classmates go on a class trip across Europe. While there, Peter has a plan to tell MJ (Zendaya) how he feels. The awkward teenager that he is just wants a normal teenage life minus the responsibility of being a superhero.
What Peter wants and what Peter gets is two different things. A new threat looms that could wipe out the Earth and Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) needs Spider-Man’s help to team up with the mysterious Quentin Beck (Jake Gyllenhaal) aka Mysterio.
As danger approaches, a reluctant Peter dons the mask and webs his way through the chaos. The action is fast paced action and the well timed sense of humor is great counterbalance. I often refer to summertime action films as popcorn films. The meaning being such films are heavy in the entertainment factor but light in intelligence. Far From Home is far from that description. It has an intelligent script, with a hero you can rally behind. It also has a villain that is his equal in many ways. Add to that a pleasing supporting cast and you’ve got a winner. It’s these ingredients that make for a very enjoyable movie going experience.
Is it the best Spidey film to date? With all due respect to Sam Raimi, yes it is. There is so much to enjoy in watching Far From Home. As I mentioned earlier, Tom Holland IS Peter Parker. Without his performance, the film could not survive. He brings it all together. As I reflect back on my teenage years, I see and hear myself through Peter. Whether it’s the self-doubt or pretending to be cool when you’re just awkward, I like so many, can relate.
Pay attention to the post credit scenes. There is a mid-credit scene that has a wonderful surprise attached it. There will also be hints to what’s to possibly come as does the final post credit scene. I can’t wait to see what Phase Four will bring.
Directed by: Jon Watts
Starring: Tom Holland, Samuel L. Jackson, Zendaya, Cobie Smulders, Jacob Batalon, Jon Favereu, Marisa Tomei and Jake Gyllenhaal
PG-13 130 Mins
SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME – **** (out of 5 stars)
May the Dork be with you,
JPB
The Dork Knight
