Sony Pictures debuted Spider-Man on the big screen in 2002. A fan-favorite, audiences consistently return to enjoy these films. Ahead of the upcoming release, “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” it’s beneficial to watch the previous installments. Thus, I’ve compiled a list detailing the optimal order to view Spider-Man movies and where to find them. If you’re eager to dive into the web-slinging action, let’s begin.
Disclaimer: This post contains heavy spoilers for all Spider-Man movies. If you wish to avoid spoilers, skip to the end for a plain list of Spider-Man movies in order. Additionally, here’s a method to prevent spoilers in the future regarding hot topics.
Original Spider-Man Trilogy
The last movies in this series were canceled due to a lack of new storylines and weak scripts. However, the original Spider-Man trilogy remains the best starting point for your Spider-Man film journey.
1. Spider-Man (2002)
It’s Sam Raimi’s first movie in the trilogy, depicting Tobey Maguire as Spider-Man’s origin. The story follows a bullied teenager bitten by a radioactive spider, gaining super speed, strength, organic web-shooting, and wall-crawling abilities overnight. Enjoying his new powers, he faces a pivotal moment when a robber fatally attacks uncle Ben. This tragedy prompts a shift in his perspective, leading Spider-Man to devote his life to aiding those in need.
The movie introduces Willem Dafoe as the Green Goblin, a recurring character in Marvel comics. His military experiment creating a super serum goes awry, giving him a murderous split personality and amplifying his strengths. Can Spider-Man stop this menace from terrorizing the city? Watch the movie to find out.
Cast
Tobey Maguire, Willem Dafoe, Kristen Dunst, James Franco
Where to Watch
Trailer: YouTube
Stream On: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On-Demand, truTV
Rent On: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Redbox, AMC on Demand
In India: SonyLIV
Trivia
2. Willem Dafoe performed 90% of the stunts himself.
Spider-Man 2 (2004)
Cast
Tobey Maguire, Alfred Molina, Kristen Dunst, James Franco
Where to Watch
Trailer: YouTube
Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On-Demand, truTV
Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Redbox, AMC on Demand
In India: SonyLIV
Trivia
1. Willem Dafoe’s unplanned cameo occurred when he noticed the crew shooting near his apartment. He approached them, sparking the director’s idea for his cameo.
2. Alfred Molina, portraying Dr. Octopus, named his four mechanical tentacles: Larry, Harry, Flo, and Moe. Flo, situated at the top-right, exhibited a motherly emotion by serving drinks and removing sunglasses.
5. Tobey Maguire feigned a back injury to negotiate a higher salary for the sequel. Upon discovering the deception, the studio terminated his contract, briefly replacing him with Jake Gyllenhaal. Tobey apologized, leading to his reinstatement. Fifteen years later, Jake returned as Spider-Man’s antagonist, Mysterio.
3. Spider-Man 3 (2007)
Sam Raimi’s final Spider-Man movie halted the franchise’s continuation, being its weakest installment. It delves into the struggle of a loved one’s betrayal while confronting three villains, a breakup, and inner demons.
Cast
Where to Watch
Watch trailer: YouTube
Stream On: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On-Demand, tru TV
Rent On: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand
In India: SonyLIV
Trivia
Negative critical response led to the cancellation of the last three planned franchise movies.
The Amazing Spider-Man Reboot
Following Marvel Studios’ paradigm shift in superhero cinema, Sony endeavored to reboot its existing assets. Utilizing minimal characters, director Marc Webb helmed Andrew Garfield as Spider-Man. Despite lacking critical acclaim and falling short of box office projections, the series showcased noteworthy performances and introduced fresh characters. Consequently, it constitutes a worthy addition to the Spider-Man film canon.
4. The Amazing Spider-Man (2012)
Cast
Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, Rhys Ifans, Irrfan Khan
Where to Watch
Trailer: YouTube
The Amazing Spider-Man is on Netflix in most countries, including India.
Stream On: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On-Demand, tru TV
Rent On: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Redbox, AMC on Demand
Trivia
1. Andrew Garfield cried the first time he wore the Spider-Man costume.
2. The film was released on Spider-Man’s 50th anniversary in comics.
3. Garfield would play basketball with kids in New York City in the Spider-Man costume during breaks.
Dr. Curt Connors appeared in Sam Raimi’s trilogy but wasn’t considered for the role of the Lizard at the time.
The Amazing Spider-Man 2
Cast
Andre Garfield, Emma Stone, Jamie Foxx, Dane Dehaan
Where to Watch
Trailer: YouTube
Stream On: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On-Demand, tru TV
Rent On: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand
The Amazing Spider-Man 2 is on Netflix in most countries, including India.
Trivia
1. In an early scene, Max Dillion’s fridge contains a cake with white and green icing and yellow lightning bolts, paying homage to the Electro costume from the comics.
2. The Daily Bugle’s chief editor, J. Jonah Jameson, was mentioned multiple times in the movie but never shown, even though he is one of the main characters in Spider-Man comics. Director said he could not find anyone better than J. K. Simmons to portray the role, so he left it empty. Funny enough, the same thing happened while casting for Spiderman: Far From Home, and the studio bought J. K. Simmons back to reprise his role.
3. Mary Jane’s character was in the script, and some scenes were shot as well. However, later the team decided to skip it to streamline the story.
Spider-Man Movies in MCU
Since Marvel Cinematic Universe partnered with Sony Pictures to feature Spider-Man in their films, the character has rightfully claimed a long-awaited position in cinema. MCU stands alone in the superhero genre for seamlessly weaving together a vast array of characters while maintaining narrative coherence (I highly recommend watching all Marvel movies in chronological order). With Spider-Man now part of this ensemble, the cinematic universe feels whole. Notably, Spider-Man has not only starred in standalone films but has also made appearances in other MCU movies. Below, I’ve listed all the films featuring Tom Holland’s Spider-Man. Whether you choose to watch them all for the full story continuity is entirely up to you.
6. Captain America: Civil War
Although not a Spider-Man movie, Tom Holland debuts as the wall-climbing hero in this film. Fans often liken Captain America: Civil War to Avengers 2.5 due to its extensive character roster. Despite this, Tom Holland receives a modest 8 minutes and 30 seconds of screen time, fitting for the ensemble cast.
Cast
Where to Watch
Trailer: YouTube
Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On-Demand, truTV
Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Redbox, AMC on Demand
Captain America: Civil War is available on Disney+ in India and other countries with the service.
Trivia
1. At 19, Tom Holland became the youngest actor to portray Spider-Man.
2. In the MCU, Spider-Man’s chattiness and excitement in battle closely mirror the comic book character.
4. Sharon Carter’s eulogy at Peggy’s funeral is directly quoted from Captain America’s speech in Amazing Spider-Man #537.
7. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
Tom Holland’s Spider-Man skyrocketed to fame with his debut in Captain America: Civil War. This success prompted Sony Pictures to collaborate with MCU for solo movies, retaining filming and distribution rights.
Cast
Where to Watch
Trailer: YouTube
Streaming Options: fubo TV, FXNow, DirectTV, Spectrum On Demand
Rent On: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand
Spider-Man Homecoming is available on Netflix in many countries, including India.
Trivia
1. In an interview promoting his 2013 movie, Tom Holland expressed interest in future humorous and action roles. When asked about superhero films, he joked about potentially starring in a Spider-Man reboot, ten years down the line.
2. Spider-Man’s AI, Karen, is voiced by Jennifer Connelly. Connelly’s husband, Paul Bettany, a longstanding MCU member, portrayed The Vision and voiced J.A.R.V.I.S in previous Iron Man films.
Spider-Man eschews punches in combat, opting instead to utilize his webbing. He evades, blocks, and redirects enemy strikes, refraining from direct physical blows.
Avengers: Infinity War
Behold, the apex of MCU cinema thus far. Before you critique my omission of Avengers: Endgame, allow me to elaborate. Infinity War stands alone as the sole superhero film within the MCU to conclude on a somber note, marked by the defeat of its protagonists. Moreover, I find its narrative superior to that of Endgame. Feel free to pass judgment now.
Avengers: Infinity War heralds a pivotal moment for the MCU. It marks the commencement of the culmination of the Infinity Saga, spanning all 22 films in the franchise. The film chronicles the formidable Thanos’ quest to gather the Infinity Stones, with the intention of eradicating half of the universe’s inhabitants with a single snap.
Cast
Where to Watch
Watch trailer: YouTube
Stream On: fubo TV, FXNow, DirectTV, Spectrum On Demand
Rent On: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand
Avengers: Infinity War is available on Disney+ worldwide, including India.
Trivia
1. Although an Avengers movie, maximum screen time, 31 minutes, is given to Josh Brolin’s Thanos. The film focuses on his quest for the stones, depicting his journey and character transformation, establishing him as the protagonist.
2. Tom Holland wasn’t allowed to read the whole script due to past reveals of secrets from Spider-Man: Homecoming.
3. Spider-Man demonstrates his Spider-Sense, detecting danger beforehand, a capability showcased for the first time in this film, briefly hinted at in Captain America: Civil War.
4. It’s the sole Spider-Man movie featuring the character’s demise.
9. Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Avengers: Endgame ignited unprecedented excitement among movie enthusiasts, concluding the Infinity Saga and offering resolution for original Avengers characters. Serving as a direct sequel to Avengers: Infinity War, the narrative unfolds five years post the snap. Unified, our beloved heroes endeavor relentlessly to avenge the fallen. Whatever it takes!
Cast
Where to Watch
Watch trailer: YouTube
Stream On: fubo TV, FXNow, DirectTV, Spectrum On Demand
Rent On: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand
Avengers: Infinity War is available on Disney+ worldwide, including India.
Trivia
1. Captain America calls Spider-Man “Queens,” referencing their first conversation from Captain America: Civil War.
4. Tom Holland was informed they’re filming a wedding scene instead of the funeral scene due to his tendency to accidentally spoil things.
5. During the final battle, Spider-Man swings from Ant-Man’s giant hand.
10. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
Cast
Tom Holland, Zendaya, Jake Gyllenhaal, Samuel L. Jackson, Jon Favreau
Where to Watch
Watch trailer: YouTube
Stream: fubo TV, FXNow, DirectTV, Spectrum On Demand
Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand
Trivia
1. This is the first Marvel Studios movie without Stan Lee since his passing in November 2018.
3. Tom Holland mistakenly revealed this movie’s title as “Spider-Man: Far From Home” in an Instagram video.
5. Happy plays AC/DC’s “Back In Black” while Peter designs the suit, the same song featured in the opening of Iron Man (2008).
11. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)
Only movie to generate Avengers: Endgame-like hype, no doubt Spider-Man fans like us won’t be disappointed. Bringing together the best of previous Spider-Man films, released under MCU banner, primarily revolves around Tom Holland’s Spider-Man. Earlier villains from Sam Raimi’s trilogy and Marc Webb’s series are returning.
[Warning: spoilers ahead]
No Way Home reunites Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield as Spider-Man, bringing all three favorites together through the multiverse. For long-time fans, it’s a nostalgic trip, with numerous references to their previous roles and a nod to the popular Spider-Man meme.
Cast:
Tom Holland, Tobey Maguire, Andrew Garfield, Zendaya, Willem Dafoe, Alfred Molina, Jacob Batalon, Jamie Foxx, Benedict Cumberbatch, J.K Simmons
Where to Watch:
Trailer: YouTube
Spider-Man: No Way Home is not yet available for streaming. We’ll update when it’s released on streaming platforms.
Sony’s Spider-Man Universe
Marvel sold its character filming rights to other studios in the late nineties due to bankruptcy. Critics disrespected superhero movies, and comic readership declined. Sony acquired Spider-Man’s rights from Marvel. Marvel recognized the film potential after the first Spider-Man’s success.
Marvel retained rights to characters like Hulk, Iron-Man, Thor, Captain America, and more, building their universe. Meanwhile, 20th Century Fox owned X-men and associated characters. After the MCU’s success, Sony aimed to replicate it, birthing the idea of a universe centered on Spider-Man villains. While these films may not directly link to Spider-Man in the MCU, watching Venom and Venom: Let There be Carnage aids in understanding his adversaries.
With Spider-Man as their sole superhero, Sony focused on him in animated movies, notably Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018).
The animation style mirrors classic comic books, employing sound effects and visual elements to enrich scenes and unlock endless character potential.
Cast
All actors lent their voices to the characters:
Shameik Moore, Jake Johnson, Mahershala Ali, Hailee Steinfeld, Nicolas Cage
Where to Watch
Watch trailer: YouTube
Stream On: fubo TV, FXNow, DirectTV, Spectrum On Demand
Rent On: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand, Alamo on Demand
Trivia
1. Pausing whenever a train passes reveals Stan Lee aboard. Animators, eager to depict him, utilized passing trains.
2. This film boasted the largest crew ever for a Sony Pictures Animation project, totaling 180 animators.
5. The radioactive spider traverses spray paint cans, altering hues before biting Miles. This power subsequently transfers to him. Contrary to common belief in the film, Miles doesn’t turn invisible but rather changes color to match his surroundings.
Future Spider-Man Films
Spider-Man is a character present in various mediums, including comic books, live-action and animated movies, and series. Creators continue to add to the Spider-Man movie lineup. Here’s what’s new:
13. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Sequel
An untitled sequel to Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse has been in production since 2019, mainly focusing on Miles and Gwen’s relationship as the new Spider-Man and Spider-Woman. Expect more updates on Spider-Man’s animated film series.
List of Spider-Man Movies in Sequence
Spider-Man Movies in Order | Where to watch in US | Where to Watch in India |
1. Spider-Man (2002) | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
SonyLIV |
2. Spider-Man 2 (2004) | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
SonyLIV |
3. Spider-Man 3 (2007) | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
SonyLIV |
4. The Amazing Spider-Man (2012) | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
Not on OTT |
5. The Amazing Spider-Man 2 | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
Netflix |
6. Captain America: Civil War | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV, Disney+ Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
Disney+ |
7. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017) | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV, Netflix Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
Netflix |
8. Avengers: Infinity War (2018) | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV, Disney+ Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
Disney+ |
9. Avengers: Endgame (2019) | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV, Disney+ Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
Disney+ |
10. Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019) | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
Netflix |
11. Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse (2018) | Stream: DirectTV, TNT, TBS, Spectrum On Demand, tru TV Rent: Amazon Video, Vudu, Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Youtube, Redbox, AMC on Demand |
Netflix |
12. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) | Theatres | Theatres |
13. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Sequel | Yet to Release | Yet to Release |
Spider-Man Rights Ownership
- Sony holds the right to create animated shows exceeding 44 minutes.
- Marvel Studios can use Spider-Man in episodes under 44 minutes.
- Sony owns filming and distribution rights for Spider-Man solo movies, with Marvel as co-producer.
- Marvel can feature Spider-Man briefly as a side character in MCU films.
- Marvel/Disney has merchandise rights for Spider-Man.
- The comic character remains under Marvel Comics.
We hope you enjoyed this article and gained insight into Spider-Man’s ownership. Feel free to share additional details or questions in the comments.
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.