Spider-Man: No Way Home

A treat for comic book fans and an antidote for viewers suffering from alleged “superhero fatigue,” Jon Watts’ Spider-Man: No Way Home sets a new standard for Tom Holland’s tenure as Peter Parker by expertly juggling a multiverse of familiar faces within the series’ winning formula of thrilling action, cheeky humor, and well-earned heart.

Overcoming some early chaos in the wake of Peter’s unmasking and his annoying behavior that supersedes the expertise of none other than Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), the film hits its stride once universes collide and characters from lesser Spider-Man films get to redeem themselves through improved direction and dialogue — with a welcome dose of self-deprecation — while those who didn’t embarrass themselves the first go-round build on their legacies.

Fan service has rarely been done this well, and the cheers it earns within crowded theaters is entirely merited. 

Grade: A-minus. Rated PG-13. Now playing at AMC River Hills 10, Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co., Carolina Cinemark, and Regal Biltmore Grande

(Photo: Sony Pictures)