10 Marvel Comics You Must Read Before Phase 3

Film: Spider-Man (July 28, 2017)

Marvel has shown a willingness to pull from the Ultimate universe, so it makes sense for them to adapt Brian Michael Bendis and Mark Bagley’s updated and streamlined version of Spider-Man’s origins. The series itself has a lighter tone and aims for a younger audience, which seems like exactly what Marvel wants to do with the character.

The familiar plot points of him attempting to make money as a wrestler, facing down Flash Thompson, feeling guilty for Uncle Ben’s death, and pining for Mary-Jane are all still there. But it’s as Peter deals with all of these facets of life, including his new work as a web-designer (get it?), that the story is the most interesting.

Thanks to the update, Spider-Man’s origins are a result of Norman Osborn’s experimental OZ formula, and become immediately tied to those of the Green Goblin and his chief scientist, Otto Octavius. Osborn especially is truly horrifying in this reality, willing to kill teenagers just to protect his business and immediately aware of Spider-Man’s identity. Plus there’s the part where he literally turns into a giant green goblin that can throw fireballs.

Even if they (hopefully) forego the origin story, the tone of this comic could still be emulated to great success.