Spider-Man is generally funny on the page, but so far the films have failed to generate many laughs. While Raimi's movies have their witty moments, the humour tends to come from supporting characters like J. Jonah Jameson, while Webb's flicks were remarkably more straight-faced despite Garfield's attempts to raise titters. Most of Marvel's films have featured genuine laughs, and the lighter tone they embrace overall means even the weaker efforts are at least fun. These comedic elements are part of the attraction for audiences, particularly with Guardians of the Galaxy, which made a bizarre concept and characters engaging to a mainstream audience through lots of laughs. Spider-Man himself should be funnier, as this is Peter Parker free of his inhibitions and nerdy reputation, able to be the cool guy he would like to be without the mask. Thankfully, Marvel have promised that the first Spider-Man film is taking inspiration from John Hughes movies, which often explored the trials and tribulations of complex youngsters with oodles of humour. A light, funny tone is ideal for a new era of Spider-Man movies, as the more laughs it gives audiences, the better they're likely to respond. A comedic feel would also help it slot comfortably into the MCU.
Kyle McManus is a freelance writer with a love of Star Wars, comics, books, 2000 AD, and scribbling his own bizarre brand of fiction. He hopes you enjoy reading the words he writes.