🎬 𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐫-𝐌𝐚𝐧 (𝟐𝟎𝟎𝟐)

Spider-Man (2002), directed by Sam Raimi, is a superhero film that kickstarted the modern wave of comic book adaptations and established Tobey Maguire as the iconic web-slinger. The film is based on Marvel Comics’ Spider-Man, created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko, and marked the first installment of the beloved Spider-Man trilogy.

The story follows Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire), a shy and nerdy high school student living with his Aunt May (Rosemary Harris) and Uncle Ben (Cliff Robertson) in New York City. During a school field trip to a genetics laboratory, Peter is bitten by a genetically modified super spider. Overnight, he begins to develop extraordinary powers, including enhanced strength, agility, wall-crawling abilities, and a unique “spider-sense” that alerts him to danger.

Initially using his powers for personal gain, Peter enters a wrestling match to earn money. However, when a thief he lets escape later murders his beloved Uncle Ben, Peter learns a valuable lesson: “With great power comes great responsibility.” This tragedy inspires him to embrace his destiny as Spider-Man, New York City’s protector.

Meanwhile, Norman Osborn (Willem Dafoe), a brilliant but ambitious scientist and the CEO of Oscorp, subjects himself to an experimental performance-enhancing serum, transforming him into the insane and ruthless Green Goblin. As Osborn’s mind deteriorates, he begins wreaking havoc across the city, endangering civilians and Spider-Man’s loved ones.

The film’s climax unfolds as Spider-Man confronts the Green Goblin in an intense battle, where Peter’s strength and courage are put to the test. Norman ultimately dies by his own glider during the fight but, in his final moments, begs Peter not to tell his son Harry Osborn (James Franco) the truth. In the aftermath, Peter chooses to embrace his role as Spider-Man, even as it costs him a chance at a romantic relationship with Mary Jane Watson (Kirsten Dunst).