Spider-Man: Homecoming - 20 Best One-Liners

14. "The Washington Monument Was Built By Slaves"

Spider Man Homecoming Spider Man MJ
Marvel Studios

When Ned, Liz and several of Peter's other classmates end up trapped inside an elevator in the Washington Monument, Spidey has to spring into action to save the day.

As an aside, it turns out that Peter's snarky classmate Michelle opted not to take the elevator ride. Why, you ask? She tells her teacher Mr. Harrington, played so memorably by Martin Starr, "The Washington Monument was built by slaves."

Though Harrington does his best to re-assure her that this wasn't the case, when he defers to a black security guard to back him up, the guard gives a so-so hand gesture.

Not only does the brief diversion provide some hysterical comic relief mid-action scene, but cements the very real ambiguities of the Monument's construction.

Advertisement
Contributor
Contributor

Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.