The Marvel and DC Universe is filled with thousands of superheroes, who have for decades comforted fans by strengthening the idea of good overpowering evil in a plethora of ways and through different mediums, including comic books and movies.
However, despite countless heroes, only a few – Superman, Batman, and Spider-Man among others – have managed to cement their place in the hearts of fans across different generations.
The late Stan Lee, who revolutionized the comic world, prioritized that his characters represent what we see in everyday life. Fans remember heroes with whom they can resonate with in some way or another. In that regard, no one comes close to Peter Parker, whose problems, including his financial situation, make him the most relatable hero to most Marvel fans.
Why Spider-Man Decided to Fight the Fantastic Four
Tobey Maguire‘s Spider-Man (2002) remains the most popular Spider-Man movie of all time, not because of his superpowers (which, to be fair, fall pale in comparison with many other superheroes) but because of how sickly orphan Peter Parker finds a new lease of life after being bitten by a radioactive spider.
Many fans relate to the character who’s not the most popular kid in school, always nervous in front of his crush (Mary Jane), and is always short on money, which was far from a new trend for Spider-Man at the turn of the century.
In fact, even in the very first issue of The Amazing Spider-Man (1963), Stan Lee‘s brainchild was looking for ways to make money by monetizing his powers. This also kick-started his ever-changing dynamic with the Human Torch, as he tried to join Fantastic Four. The young superhero came up with the goofy idea of breaking into the Baxter Building and messing up with his would-be teammates to show his prowess.
Spidey outpowered the team, including Invisible Woman, the most powerful member of the Fantastic Four. He explained the reason behind taking on the team, but Johnny Storm was far from impressed. The Web-Head was accordingly rejected. He didn’t get any money, but at least he had a great story (which we are now talking about) to share for years to come.
How Fantastic Four Will Be Similar to Spider-Man: Homecoming
In the comic world, Spider-Man and Fantastic Four have crossed their paths numerous times, which has surprisingly not been the case in Marvel movies. Whether that would change going forward in the MCU remains unclear, but we do know that the upcoming Fantastic Four reboot will follow the web-slinger’s footsteps on the big screen.
Movies on key MCU characters (Iron Man, Captain America, and Black Panther among others) have over the years gone through the process of diving into their respective origin stories. However, that surprisingly didn’t happen in Spider-Man: Homecoming.
According to Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige (via The Hollywood Reporter), Fantastic Four, which is scheduled to release in 2025, will also not waste time in establishing a backstory.
Source: Marvel, The Hollywood Reporter
