Spider shoots but doesn't totally score.

The best of the "Spider Man" movies. It was pure joy to watch in the theater for the first time. I cackled with unrestrained fanboy glee the first time his Spidey-sense kicked in.

Spider-Man still remains one of the best superhero films ever made, and a landmark that helped to pave the way for many of the comic-book adaptations that soon followed. Sam Raimi captured the magic of Peter Parker's transformation from a normal, ge... (read more) Spider-Man still remains one of the best superhero films ever made, and a landmark that helped to pave the way for many of the comic-book adaptations that soon followed. Sam Raimi captured the magic of Peter Parker's transformation from a normal, geeky kid to the spectacular superhero we all know, and Tobey Maguire remains compelling and believable in his first run at the star role. Raimi's unique and campy sense of humour is present as well (most effectively in J.K. Simmons' portrayal of J.Jonah Jameson) and this works to keep the film relatively light as a contrast to the darker and grittier crime-fighting scenes. The film does have a few minor drawbacks (the Goblin's costume leaves something to be desired, and the special effects are a bit spotty) but they're hardly enough to drag the film down. On the contrary, the film is still every bit as magical and captivating as it was upon release, and it seems to even be growing better with age.

Spider-man, my childhood hero.

dead on although i never really took toby mcguire seriously as peter parker/spiderman but james franco makes an awesome harry osbourne plus he is totally hot

Raimi gives this unapologetic fluff a mind, a heart and a keen sense of fun.

A movie that both thrills the eye and, in its over-the-top way, touches the heart.

The superhero part of the movie will leave audiences with a flat feeling.

The origin story is well told, and the characters will not disappoint anyone who values the original comic books. It's in the action scenes that things fall apart.

To its credit focuses mainly on the warm-hearted human tale of the innocent superhero in a hard world, rather than on visual dazzle.