#s-mpeterparker rants comics

[spider-mandaily]

Santa Claus is back, and he has a gun. And sunglasses. And cigarettes - Peter Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Man #112

Sooo, since Christmas is arriving soon, l thought of doing my annual Christmas Spider-Man Comic Special analysis! Let's get started!

The “Evil Santa” trope is a well-worn, often ridiculous fixture of Christmas-themed storytelling. Countless films have explored this subgenre, and most have been downright dreadful. A standout example of this particular brand of awfulness is Santa’s Slay, a movie that boldly combined the comedic stylings of SNL alum Chris Kattan (famous for characters like Mango and Mr. Peepers) with the imposing presence of wrestler Bill Goldberg. This direct-to-video disaster epitomizes the kind of cinematic fare you’d find languishing in a bargain bin.

Comics have dipped into this concept as well, and Spider-Man’s world is no stranger to fake Santa scenarios. One memorable instance featured Wilson Fisk himself donning a Santa suit and a fake beard in a newspaper giveaway story. By the tale’s conclusion, he was humorously floating into the sky—a high bar of absurdity for anyone attempting to follow. Yet here we are, diving into another Spider-Man Santa impersonator story, this time from his secondary ongoing series.

The Kyle Baker cover for this particular issue might suggest that Frank Castle has disguised himself with a fake beard to infiltrate some criminal smuggling ring targeting Toys for Tots, but no—it’s not the Punisher under that festive facade. Instead, this story (written by Peter David, penciled by Mark Beachum, and inked by Pat Redding) features a department store Santa who doubles as a career criminal. His seasonal role provides the perfect opportunity to scout potential burglary targets. (Apparently, background checks weren’t exactly a priority for holiday jobs then—or now. Moral of the story: Be cautious about whose lap you trust.)

This nefarious Santa has kidnapped and hidden away the legitimate holiday hire just days before Christmas, using his position to gather intelligence from children. As they share their wish lists (including then-popular toys like Optimus Prime and Stinkor), he slyly inquires about their home lives, their possessions, and where they live. Once the families leave, he jots down his findings in a notepad, oozing malevolence with every detail.

What’s Peter Parker up to as Christmas approaches? Unsurprisingly, he’s caught in one of his classic bouts of melancholy, a recurring theme tied to his core “great power, great responsibility” philosophy. This time, his gloomy mood stems from struggling to find someone to spend Christmas Day with. A phone call to Aunt May ends in confusion, as missed signals and miscommunication leave Peter under the impression that she’s already made plans without him.

This sets the stage for a secondary—and rather peculiar—focus of this comic: an exaggerated preoccupation with the female characters’ anatomy. The story repeatedly draws attention to the backsides and lower regions of the women in Spider-Man’s orbit. (Thankfully, Aunt May is spared from this treatment.) For instance, we see Mary Jane soaking in the bath as Peter calls her, only to hang up before leaving a message.

Why not just strap up her legs and do a full gynecological exam?

An out of costume Felicia Hardy gets in on the call and hang up action, as she writhes and juts in a nightie cut real high:

Let’s take a break from the voyeurism and get to one of the most depressing moments in Spider-Man history. Here’s Peter Parker spending a quiet night half-dressed and talking to himself. Well, not himself — talking to something even more alarming:

Chin up, Pete—everyone has moments like this. “Happy Arbor Day, houseplant I occasionally remember to water.” But come on, man, get a grip. Watching Peter chat with his black costume might not be as bleak as Frosty the Snowman’s infamous donkey tale, but it’s certainly a red flag for a superhero teetering on the edge. The way he carefully arranged the costume to appear as though it’s “sitting” in a chair is a clear sign: pull yourself together! You’re young, you have superpowers, a recliner, and even a cable spool coffee table. Life could be worse! (Although, let’s be honest—a cable spool coffee table can be stylish in the right context, but here it’s definitely giving off strong loser vibes.)

And now, back to the ongoing fixation on women’s backsides. Jordan, the boy whose information our fake Santa creepily noted earlier, lives with his mother and her two roommates in an apartment that just so happens to be right next to Peter’s. Convenient, isn’t it? When sinister Santa decides to strike, the scene shifts to the women in their sleepwear, which looks straight out of a Flashdance audition. It’s an over-the-top aesthetic as the story ramps up for Santa’s next move:

All this ruckus sets of the slumbering Peter’s Spider-Sense, and in no time Spider-Man crashes through a window and has bad Santa on the run.  Our villain heads to the roof in his bid to escape, and once there he has an unexpected run in:

So, he crossed paths with the real Santa. How about that? Let’s just hope it wasn’t Nick St. Christopher.

After pulling his vanishing act, no one is more shocked than Peter when the crook reappears at the very spot where he had initially been gathering intel. This time, however, he seems to have turned over a new leaf and comes bearing gifts. Peter, naturally, is stuck covering the story for the Daily Bugle—a clear reminder that, even after more than two decades at the paper, he’s still saddled with the least desirable assignments.

What’s in the note?:

Santa knows everything.

This early work from Peter David, written before his signature self-aware wit fully developed, benefits from its more straightforward tone. While the story is undeniably silly, it serves as a decent piece of holiday-themed filler. That said, the inexplicable focus on gratuitous shots of backsides throughout the comic is baffling. The examples provided barely scratch the surface—there are plenty more if you’re curious enough to seek them out (for, you know, research purposes).

And there you have it: a tale of Bad Santa, with a side of unnecessary cheekiness. HAPPY CHRISTMAS MONTH!

[spider-mandaily]

Fun Fact of the Day: Miguel O’Hara/Spider-Man 2099 is heavily Venom inspired. His red symbol, web cape, and regenerating suit is taken from the original fan pitch of Black Suit Spider-Man. Both designs were finalized by Rick Leonardi. He and Venom both have organic webs and claws.

[spider-mandaily]

I have always felt like Todd McFarlane’s Peter and MJ isn’t just art — it’s the visual equivalent of a love song stuck in a tape deck. To me, it has always given off the vibe of 'late afternoon sun hitting a vintage comic' aesthetic.

The way he draws them feels like warm reds, soft edges, and the kind of touch that lingers even after the page turns.

It’s not just romantic, it’s cinematic.

That's why his interpretation of Petermj is always so venerated and close to home for me.

[spider-mandaily]

Daredevil (2019) #5

The scene between Daredevil and Spider-Man here is undeniably the highlight of this issue, showcasing their complex dynamic in a way that’s both striking and emotionally intense. Spider-Man’s usual goofiness and Daredevil’s perpetual annoyance with him are on full display, but what really stands out here is the way the two characters’ personalities play off each other. Spider-Man, with his unshakable optimism, remains committed to superheroing with a sense of responsibility that comes across as both earnest and sometimes overwhelming. On the other hand, Daredevil’s cynicism and the weight of his past are taking their toll, and it becomes clearer that he’s questioning whether he can continue his life as a hero.

What’s fascinating about this exchange is how it highlights the deep respect Daredevil holds for Spider-Man, despite his outwardly gruff demeanor. Spider-Man's carefree nature doesn’t diminish his importance to Matt Murdock—if anything, it only underscores the gravity of Matt’s inner conflict. Daredevil has spent so much of his life fighting for justice in a world that feels more and more hopeless, and here we see him at his breaking point, confronting the emotional burden of his choices.

Marco Checchetto handles the scene beautifully, particularly toward the issue’s end, where Daredevil and Spider-Man have a candid, yet poignant moment. The dialogue is sharp, but what truly adds depth is the silent reaction from Matt as he processes everything that’s been happening. The way the artist conveys Matt’s turmoil without words—the anguish in his eyes, the weight of the moment—is a testament to how art can elevate a scene.

When Spider-Man confronts Daredevil, it’s clear that he’s trying to reach Matt, pulling him out of the dark space he’s in. But the complexity of Daredevil’s situation isn’t so easily solved, and Spider-Man’s words seem almost like an echo in Matt’s mind, bringing him face-to-face with the harsh reality of his decisions. It’s in these moments, through their back-and-forth and the unspoken understanding between them, that we begin to feel the shift in Daredevil’s character. This confrontation doesn’t just symbolize their differences as heroes—it’s a pivotal point for Matt, where he must grapple with the idea of stepping away from being a hero, and perhaps finally acknowledging that the fight has taken its toll on him.

This issue doesn’t just portray a clash of personalities, but an emotional reckoning for both characters. Spider-Man’s optimism is a stark contrast to Daredevil’s world-weary realism, and in their confrontation, we see both the hope and the despair that come with the burden of being a hero. It’s a raw, real moment that makes you question whether Daredevil can keep going, and whether Spider-Man’s words have the power to save him—or if it’s already too late for Matt. - Another reason why I think Spider-Man is the greatest hero of all time!

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New Avengers (2005) #50

BONUS:

Spider-Man having the audacity that no one else could have literally kills me all the time...

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Alright, but look at this – Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man drops Peter in the Future Foundation suit, and now I can’t stop thinking about him getting hit on by that female member of the Light Brigade [from Hickman's FF #21 (2011)] who’s 100% convinced they made out at some party with Johnny Storm and a bunch of other universal inhumans. Peter, in full panic mode, just standing there like,

“I DO NOT have a big butt!”

Meanwhile, half the galaxy is silently agreeing with that female member of the Light Brigade...

I know it's kind of far-fetched, but... I can't help but imagine this if interaction would happen in Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man (we won't get it, but... JUST IMAGINE... IF IT HAPPENS...)

[spider-mandaily]

Totally, out of context and and all but take 'with great power comes great responsibility' - the moral lifeline and guidance that Peter takes on cherishes that made him who he is - Spider-Man... Apart from it carrying the deep heroic essence that made Peter the ultimate hero that he is, do you think it carries a deep, dark connotation, too? Like, what would you think about it in a much darker way than its heroic sense? You know what I mean?

Well, I'd be damned! I did think about this a lot. Thank you so much for bringing this in, Anon! Let's get to it!

We all know and agree that 'With great power comes great responsibility’ is one of the most iconic and heroic lines in all of superhero storytelling, and for good reason. It’s the moral core of Spider-Man, the backbone and guiding philosophy that shapes Peter Parker into the hero he strives to be. But when you really dig into it—especially from Peter’s perspective—it’s far from purely noble. It’s indeed deeply tied to his trauma, paranoia, and guilt, and there’s an undeniable darkness to it.

The entire ethos of this philosophy is born out of Peter’s greatest failure: his inaction, his selfish decision to ignore a chance to stop a criminal. That choice ultimately cost his Uncle Ben his life, turning this lesson into a deeply personal, almost obsessive moral code. This wasn’t just a freak accident—it was a direct result of Peter’s actions, or rather, his lack of them. The phrase itself, while well-intentioned, became a constant reminder of his guilt and a lens through which he views every decision he makes (this has been shown in many times in the comics whereby Peter beating himself up for not being able to save everyone and all - take Gwen Stacy's death for example!).

At its best, this philosophy inspires Peter to be better, to use his powers for good, to prevent harm whenever he can. But the way Peter internalizes it is far more destructive. Instead of simply striving to help others, he martyrizes himself, taking on an impossible burden. He believes that any failure, any harm that happens ‘under his watch,’ is entirely his fault. This isn’t just heroic—it’s paranoid, self-destructive, and, frankly, psychotic when taken to the extreme.

This is why some people (And I, myself) argue that Peter’s interpretation of the philosophy is a character flaw. He operates as if the weight of the world is solely his responsibility. And while that makes him an inspiring hero, it also makes him deeply tragic. He’s driven by guilt and a need to atone, turning what could be a balanced lesson into something that actively harms him.

The irony is that this is rarely addressed as a flaw in-universe. It’s treated as admirable, even enviable. Everyone lauds Peter for his selflessness, but few acknowledge that it’s rooted in trauma and a near-suicidal level of responsibility. He doesn’t just live by the mantra; he lets it consume him.

Now, let’s flip the perspective. What happens when someone like Green Goblin or another villain (from Spider-Man's villain rogue gallery) looks at this philosophy? To them, it’s madness (obviously we have seen this kind of reaction everytime in Spider-Man's history and I'll take a basic example - think about that particular scene in Tobey Maguire's Spider-Man (2002) when Spidey was abducted by Green Goblin for a proposal of joining him and forget about his moral codes.... You know the rest!). A person who believes they’re responsible for everything that happens around them is a perfect tool to manipulate, break, or destroy. Peter’s adherence to this belief makes him predictable. It’s noble, sure, but it’s also exploitable.

At its core, the phrase ‘with great power comes great responsibility’ isn’t inherently bad. It’s a solid moral principle: if you have the ability to help others, you should. But when it’s instilled through trauma—when it’s learned through failure and guilt—it becomes something far darker. Peter doesn’t just live by it; he’s trapped by it. His motivations stem from the trauma of being a selfish teenager who made a terrible mistake, and while that mistake inspires him to do good, it also locks him in a cycle of self-blame and martyrdom.

In an ideal world, I think Peter’s arc would include learning balance: understanding that he can’t save everyone and that it’s not his fault when he can’t. Imagine a Spider-Man who fully accepts his limits and learns to forgive himself—that’s where this philosophy could evolve into something truly healthy and sustainable. But comic book characters rarely get the luxury of consistent growth, and Peter, especially, is defined by his perpetual struggle.

Ultimately, this is why Peter Parker is such a compelling character. He’s a hero not because he’s perfect but because he’s deeply flawed. His trauma drives him, his guilt shapes him, and his philosophy—while admirable—both elevates him and tears him apart. It’s heroic, yes, but it’s also psychotic, self-destructive, and tragic in equal measure. And that’s also one of the reasons that makes him Spider-Man.

[spider-mandaily]

It is honestly rare to have a Spider-Man blog that is dedicated to ALL of the Spider-Man lore, be it villains, games, comics, tv shows, movie adaptations other characters in spider-man history, other versions of Spider-Man or literally ANYTHING related to Spider-Man. Tumblr is truly blessed to have you. We, Spider-Man fans, are all blessed to have your blog. I don't think I can find any Spider-Man fansite on other social platforms that could compare to you. Keep it up! Your blog truly enlightens every Spider-Man fan out here. I strongly and vehemently suggest anyone seeing this to reblog this because anyone who hasn't found your blog yet is clearly missing out greatly as a Spider-Man fan! Love you so much❤️❤️❤️

Oh my gosh, THANK YOU SO MUCH!! This message seriously made my day!!! To know that my little corner of Tumblr is bringing so much joy to fellow Spider-Man fans is the BEST feeling ever. I’m just out here geeking out, posting, reblogging, and ranting about every web-slinging moment, and it’s incredible to know that others appreciate it as much as I do!

Spider-Man has such a rich, amazing history, and I’m so happy to help shine a light on all the versions, characters, villains, and stories that make this universe so special. It’s my mission to make sure every fan—old or new—has a place to celebrate their love for Spidey.

Hearing that my blog means so much to you and others truly warms my heart. I get these kind of asks almost everyday and I can't tell you all how much you all mean to me and how special it is for me that you all love my blog as much as I do! Your kind words motivate me to keep diving deeper into Spider-Man lore and sharing all the fun tidbits, thoughts, and content I can. THANK YOU for your support—it seriously means the world to me. You’re the real MVP for sending this love my way, and I love you right back!

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I've been thinking about this and I think that one of the most underrated aspects of Ultimate Spider-Man (2024) is how Hickman reimagines the classic Spider-Man story. In the 616 universe, Peter Parker’s journey is centered around learning the importance of responsibility. However, in Earth-6160, Peter’s focus shifts—he learns how to wield the power he’s been given.

Let me break it down. [PART ONE]

Everyone knows Spider-Man’s story, but something that’s often overlooked about early Spider-Man is just how selfish he is. During the Ditko era, Peter primarily uses his powers to make money. He rarely fights crime because it’s the right thing to do.

Peter possesses great power, but he doesn’t grasp the responsibility that comes with it—at least not right away. It’s not until Spider-Man No More that everything clicks for him, as he’s reminded of Uncle Ben. In that moment, he recognizes his true potential and makes a vow never to turn away again. And in the very next issue, he follows through. Peter evolves into a full-fledged, bona fide superhero. In fact, he becomes so dedicated to fighting crime that he starts forgetting to take pictures of his battles, too focused on saving lives. It’s a great arc.

​Now, let’s turn to Peter from Earth-6160. There’s a significant difference between Ultimate Peter and his classic counterpart. When we first meet him, he’s already altruistic and responsible. This Peter is, without a doubt, the most selfless version of the character we’ve seen—likely because he’s a father. From the very first issue, it’s clear that Peter genuinely cares for those around him. His family always comes first. He’s responsible, selfless, and we continue to see this play out as the series progresses. Peter consistently prioritizes others over himself.

But even he isn’t without flaws.

Peter’s one critical flaw is his confidence. Due to the Maker’s manipulations of this reality, Peter was raised in a tightly controlled society. He’s a product of a world that suppressed his potential—and he’s fully aware of it. Yet, deep down, part of him doubts whether he truly deserves that greater destiny.

That’s why he doesn’t let the spider bite him right away. It’s not a reckless decision made out of boredom or a desire for excitement. Instead, it’s a deliberate and thoughtful choice—one Peter takes his time to consider. He isn’t acting on impulse. This is something he carefully decides.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s Spider-Man just yet. Peter doesn’t need a life-altering event to push him toward becoming the hero he’s meant to be—he already knows it’s the right thing to do. The problem is… he’s terrible at it. He’s taken the first step, but he’s still unsure of what comes next. Peter may have the will, but he’s still figuring out who he truly is.

That’s when Peter meets Harry. Unlike Peter, Harry has everything figured out. He knows his mission, his enemies, and exactly what needs to be done. Harry holds all the answers. The one thing he has that Peter lacks? Confidence.

Harry didn’t have his destiny handed to him by Tony—he seized it and became the hero he needed to be. So, it makes perfect sense that he’s the one to remind Peter that with great power comes great responsibility.

HERE IS PART TWO!

[spider-mandaily]

[PART TWO]: But the meaning of the line changes here. While 616 Peter learns it as a moral lesson to do good, 6160 Peter learns it to understand his true potential. He already carries the great responsibility—he’s a father, after all. What he needs to figure out is how to wield the great power. That’s where Issue 6 comes in. Not only is it my favorite issue, but it’s also the best one in Ultimate Spider-Man so far. While Peter remains a bit hesitant, he now knows exactly what he has to do. He heads straight to the Kingpin, seeking a fight because he can’t let evil go unchecked.

This fight reminds me a lot of the one between Spectacular Spider-Man and Tombstone. They both lose the battle, but they now understand the bigger fight ahead. From that moment on, there’s no going back. Peter knows who the enemy is, and he can finally put a face to it. He has a purpose.

Now is the perfect moment to highlight how deeply Ultimate Peter’s family is tied to his identity. Uncle Ben gives him the initial push, May helps him create the costume, and Richard reminds him to stay safe, not just for himself but for the people he's fighting to protect.

In a beautiful, final panel, Peter swings high above the city, bathed in the golden glow of a setting sun. Mary Jane, more proud and in love with her husband than ever, gives Peter his name. After a six-issue journey, Peter Parker finally becomes Spider-Man!

I think that’s what makes the new Ultimate Spider-Man so unique: he’s not a character defined by tragedy. This version of Peter doesn’t quite fit the usual Peter Parker archetype in that sense. And I don’t think that’s a bad thing at all—it’s what makes the book feel so refreshing! I’d also say that this Spider-Man is a more realistic reimagining. He reflects a lot of adults today who struggle to find their place, wondering what they should do or who they’re supposed to be. That really resonates with me.

The fantastical elements of the story feel grounded, too. Harry feels like a real guy in a suit, and Peter takes some serious beatings. His strength isn’t something to be taken lightly—it’s portrayed seriously, and it’s the first time I’ve seen such a "grounded" interpretation done so well.

Ultimate Spider-Man speaks to me as a young man trying to figure out his place in the world. Like Peter, I feel like my potential and confidence have been stifled by a world that often feels designed to work against me. This book genuinely feels like it belongs in 2024. Jonathan Hickman has reinvented the Spider-Man era in a way that feels so relevant to the times, and that’s amazing. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend giving Volume One a read. I hope my analysis has been an enjoyable read and that it helped you see the story in a new light.

HERE IS PART ONE!

[spider-mandaily]

Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man (2019) #7

This is why Spider-Man remains one of the best heroes ever created! He is out here proving that being a hero isn’t just about punching bad guys—it’s about showing up for the people who need you, even when no one’s watching. No fancy speeches, just quiet acts of kindness. That’s why he’s unmatched. That's the true meaning of "With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility"!

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Some Spider-Man comics (like this) seem so focused on revisiting iconic moments that they often neglect creating new ones now. Yet, somehow, I know the repeated use of Gwen’s character could serve as an insightful exploration of how trauma lingers and shapes us, but instead, it feels grotesque. At this point, it seems like the writers and editors are simply tormenting a character they’re obligated to write for...

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The first year of Ultimate Spider-Man has come to a close. Our introduction to a global, rebellious Age of Heroes. Peter Parker may have found fulfilment by willingly being bitten by the spider, but now he must face the consequences of his choices. January 2024 - December 2024.

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Ultimate Spider-Man (2024) #12 Previews

PS: I know everyone's mentioned "Mr and Mrs Brock" but I also think that it's super interesting how MJ's dynamic with her family has been completely reimagined. I also appreciate the callback to the original Ultimate Spider-Man with Peter and Eddie being friends before Harry enters the picture—except now they're adults, which adds a fresh twist. Hickman has struck an impressive balance, cleverly subverting elements from both 616 and 1610 universes, all while staying true to the core of the characters.

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I love the fact that Carlos Gomez agrees with us fans that Paul sucks. Not to mention how hard his art rocks!

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Being an MJ fan feels unbearable lately. Watching her endure endless misogyny and intentional mistreatment is beyond frustrating....