Here are my thoughts. I have a lot to say so bear with me.
Saw it last night and absolutely loved it. It's tons of fun. I was never a huge Spidey fan growing up, but I honestly don't know why. He's so relatable and inspirational, and Tom Holland portrays Peter/Spidey PERFECTLY. This movie showcases what a great actor he is, particularly the scene where he's stuck under the debris. His performance here is moving and powerful, making me root for him more than ever (I noticed the direction here was equally as impressive - the way the shots were framed during this scene elevated the claustrophobic/panicked nature of the moment) and I actually was thinking "how is he going to get out of this!?" Holland really nails the awkward, nervous, yet quirky Peter and lands all the comedic quips with ease while in the suit. Speaking of the suit...I would have preferred if they had used less CGI to smooth out the fabric (it just looks unnatural when he's moving around), but I had no issues with it being made by Stark and having all the crazy bells and whistles. The whole Karen thing was hilarious too.
Additionally, I greatly enjoyed how many high school scenes there were. Having graduated from HS a few years ago, those parts were exceptionally fun to watch. The supporting cast was great and I was really pleased to see how they used Tony Stark (just the right amount). Also great to have Happy Hogan back; I feel like his character gets funnier and more anxious with each new appearance.
The biggest surprise for me was how well written Adrian Toomes/The Vulture was. I think this is the first MCU movie that I've actually really liked the villain (besides maybe GotG Vol. 2)! Although he's a bad guy, his motives actually make sense and you feel sympathy for him in the sense that he would do anything to protect his family. Keaton's performance of Toomes was so intense that at times I was actually scared of him, especially when he's in the Vulture suit. The twist was really great too, especially seeing how Peter reacts to it. Seriously, could you imagine going to pick up your high school crush for the homecoming dance and at the same time, finding out that her dad is a seriously bad dude who's been trying to kill you the past few days? The nerves and anxiety of that situation would be unbearable! In the end, I really wanted to see Toomes make it out alive, and was thrilled to watch Peter run into the fire to pull him out of the rubble, then see Toomes look at Peter with a newfound respect. THAT'S Spider-Man. A kid who does his best to do the right thing, even when the bad guy probably doesn't deserve to be saved. Also, I noticed at some point during the movie that not only does Toome's suit look like a vulture, the name fits his actions. He's a scavenger! Very cool design all around.
Awesome moment to see the Iron Spider suit at the end! And are Tony and Pepper finally getting engaged!? This shocked me since they were taking a break during Civil War, but it's nice to see Pepper again. I think I was as surprised as Tony and Happy were with Peter's decision at the end, but it made me respect him even more. Can't wait for Infinity War and see him fight alongside Cap and the others!
As for the score, I was a bit underwhelmed when the Spider-Man: Homecoming Suite came out (although I love Michael Giacchino's work). However, having seen the film, I can confidently say the score is great. Spidey's new theme is distinct, fun, youthful, and heroic and Vulture's theme is just as menacing and demonic as he is.
Overall, I really enjoyed it and am looking forward to seeing it again this weekend. The story is straightforward and engaging with a very healthy balance between Peter Parker/high school and Spider-Man/action (which does not disappoint). The performances from the main and supporting cast are wonderful. Lots of humor, but more emotionally charged moments would have been welcome. Definitely my favorite Spider-Man film of them all.
Post movie review post-credit scenes review:
The mid-credit scene was neat. Interesting to see Toomes protecting Spidey's identity after all that happened. I am really curious to see where his character goes from here and I love the fact that his character WILL continue down the road (quit offing great villains Marvel!)
Post-Credit scene was HILARIOUS. Might just be my favorite one of them all.
ALSO, I really wish I hadn't watched all the trailers. I had a fairly good understanding of what was going to happen and the order of things going into it, which took away from the experience a bit. I think from now on I'm only going to watch the first trailer...if I can help it :unsure
That's it for my review...thanks for reading all of that.
