The Amazing Spider-Man Review - 3½ Stars

Andrew Garfield continues his run as one of today’s great actors.  He gives Peter Parker an edge in “The Amazing Spiderman”—a reboot of the series from a decade back.  In this version, Garfield plays a science geek bitten by an enhanced spider who turns into a superhero and uses his new power to channel his anger, at being abandoned by his parents (a  mysterious scene that begins the movie) as well as his anger at not fitting and ultimately his desire for revenge against the killer of his beloved uncle.  The new Spiderman employs a superb cast, including Martin Sheen as Uncle Ben and Sally Field as Peter’s Aunt May.  Some of the best scenes come between Emma Stone (who goes blonde) and Garfield as they capture the awkwardness of teenage romance.   The outrageous Dennis Leary makes a great impression as Emma’s father, who doesn’t quite approve of her new boyfriend or Spiderman either.  (Oh, the irony.) Every super hero needs a foe and Rhys Ifans provides a fine nemesis—a kindly scientist who once worked with Parker’s father.  He turns into a menace as a result of an experiment in regeneration gone wrong. “The Amazing Spiderman” retreads a story many saw not that long ago.  The movie ends with by the book action, but not much beyond that.   However, the excellent cast and a harder edge make this worthwhile.  Does it deliver what it promises?  Another superhero.  Is it entertaining?  Good acting.  Is it worth the price of admission?  Especially for those who weren’t around for the 2002 version.