Retro Review — Spider-Man: Far From Home

How many times has Marvel promised the multiverse, only to snatch it away at the last instant?

We had famous examples with WandaVision and Loki in 2021, but Disney pulled the rug out from under us even earlier than that.

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In a 2019 movie, the first MCU title after Avengers: Endgame, a superhero from another dimension saved us all*.

That asterisk provides the first demonstration of how the MCU as a whole has proven an unreliable narrator with the concept of the multiverse.

Here is a three years later retro review of Spider-Man: Far From Home, the film that set the table for the franchise to save movie theaters a few years later.

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After the Blip

During the Avengers: Endgame discussion, I had plenty of fun with the odds of the various mishaps.

For example, Hawkeye somehow lost his whole family but lived. It’s…mathematically improbable.

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We quickly learn that the same statement applies to the gang from Spider-Man: Far From Home.

Peter Parker, MJ, and Ned all blipped, leaving them the same age. The story has some fun with this, as another kid who didn’t blip is now an Adonis.

Photo: Collider.com

Meanwhile, one of the teachers reveals that his wife faked a blip to run away with another dude. As he says it, the funeral was real, but the blip wasn’t.

Director Jon Watts demonstrates his comedic skill throughout the film, which trends toward a EuroTrip sequel as much as Spider-Man, high praise from me.

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The premise is that Peter and the gang take a school trip to Italy. After one flight, Ned has fallen in love with Betty Brant, who unexpectedly reciprocates.

This bit is legitimately one of my favorite gags in the MCU to date. It’s so very high school, with a tempestuous relationship rising and then collapsing in a matter of days.

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Meanwhile, we get a bit of foreshadowing, as Peter Parker feels alone. He has lost his mentor and surrogate father figure, Tony Stark.

Meanwhile, he’s still too immature to tell MJ how he feels, and she’s too busy investigating Peter’s quirky behavior to notice the obvious.

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Far From Home packs in a lot of story during its tight two hours. And the best part is the villain.

Hero from Another Dimension

“To have a good enemy, choose a friend; he knows where to strike.”

That profound quote drives much of the plot of the Spider-Man sequel.

(l to r) Numan Acar, Tom Holland and Jacky Gyllenhaal in Columbia Pictures’ SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME

Parker needs new guidance and direction in his life after Stark’s death. The teen believes he has found it in the form of Quentin Beck, aka Mysterio.

The backstory for Mysterio involves acts of superheroism in an alternate dimension, another part of the multiverse.

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Since everyone knew that Marvel was moving in this direction, we bought it hook, line, and sinker.

After all, there is a Mysterio in the comics, but a supervillain. In another universe, he could easily have become a hero instead.

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Mysterio somehow earns the trust of Nick Fury, who is really the person to blame here. That dude’s supposed to be the world’s greatest espionage agent!

If Fury cannot deduce that Beck’s the villain in the piece, what hope does a teenager have?

Something I admire more on rewatch is how the story careens between deadly serious and slapstick funny.

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To wit, one scene is likely a reference to EuroTrip, wherein a woman (NOT Lucy Lawless) forces him to strip, only for MJ’s other suitor to walk in.

The dude miscalculates when he takes a picture, leading the blonde woman to pull out her gun.

Then, Parker uses his final gift from Stark, overpowered Google Glasses, to…call down a drone strike on the guy. It’s something of an overreaction.

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Of course, Spidey didn’t mean to do that. He’s just always in over his head.

These sequences dovetail nicely with the actual horror of Beck’s betrayal.

By the way, Zendaya nails her role as the sleuth uncovering the mystery of Spider-Man’s secret identity.

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Rewatch the drone strike scene if you doubt this. She’s three steps ahead the whole time.

Betrayal

I actually find the Mysterio story arc quite vicious in nature. Please think about him as if he were a real person.

The dude recognizes a lonely boy searching for tutelage. He pretends to help the kid, but it’s a ruse. He’s using a kid to regain what he lost from Tony Stark.

Photo: Marvel

This story milks sympathy in a way you might not even notice at first. It’s quite manipulative when you recognize what’s happening, though.

Parker desperately seeks approval, and this jerk insincerely promises it, only to snatch it away later. Oh, and he tries to murder Parker several times, too.

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Something else I notice this time is what a linear thinker Beck is. The monsters he creates with drone tech use water and fire. How original.

This guy isn’t fit to take the helm after Stark’s death, which makes him the perfect foil here. Peter Parker IS worthy, and he proves it by besting Mysterio.

Of course, before that happens, we get all kinds of swerves. Mysterio pretends to sacrifice himself nobly while fighting a lava monster.

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This bit of “heroism” earns Fury’s respect. Then, Mr. S.H.I.E.L.D. turns around and scolds a kid for only saving some people.

I realize that everyone has a bad day, but Fury must have lost some integral brain cells when he blipped.

That dude nearly gives the planet to a megalomaniac who created something called B.A.R.F.

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I’m half-tempted to pledge my loyalty to HYDRA after rewatching Far From Home.

The High Points

Any discussion of Far From Home should include MJ’s reveal. Look, I think Zendaya is a superstar of the highest order.

She and Tom Holland possess insane chemistry pretty much all the time.

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However, they go above and beyond with this, probably the best secret identity reveal in film history.

She’s suspected all along. Still, once Parker admits it, she’s something between surprised, confused, and braggy.

The scene with Ned finding out that MJ has found out cracks me up. Ned reflexively brags that he’s known longer as a bit of territorialism. That’s terrific.

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Of course, what’s even funnier is that when Nick Fury shows up to help Parker save the day, he blames the kid (!) for what has happened.

You were born in the 1940s, dude! Take some responsibility! That kid wasn’t hanging out with Captain Marvel at Blockbuster in 1995!

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Anyway, Parker proves remarkably resilient and again does something similar to EuroTrip when he befriends local hooligans in The Netherlands.

After a silly jail escape, Parker returns to his true mentor, Happy Hogan, and makes an A+ Led Zeppelin joke. This film is MUCH more of a comedy than I remembered.

Honestly, watching this so soon after Spider-Man: No Way Home, I’m kind of in awe of Far From Home. It really sets the tone for Tom Holland’s Peter Parker.

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In fact, the ending of that film seems that much more horrible given what happens here. The only thing worse is that Ned and Betty’s love didn’t last.

Oh, yeah, there’s also that mid-credits scene that opens up the multiverse for real.

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God, I love everything about this movie. A+.

As a lifelong Fantastic Four fan, I cannot wait to see what Jon Watts does with that film!

Main Marvel Characters Who Use Magic as Their Main Power Source

In the Marvel Universe, there are a number of characters who utilize magic as their primary power source. From sorcerers and witches to gods and demons, these characters possess an array of magical abilities that make them some of the most powerful and fascinating beings in the Marvel Universe. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the main Marvel characters who use magic as their main power source.

Doctor Strange

Doctor Stephen Strange, also known as the Sorcerer Supreme, is perhaps the most well-known and powerful magic user in the Marvel Universe. After suffering a severe injury to his hands that ended his career as a surgeon, Strange traveled to the Himalayas to seek out the Ancient One, a powerful sorcerer who taught him the ways of magic. Strange possesses a wide range of magical abilities, including the ability to cast spells, create magical shields, manipulate time and space, and even travel to other dimensions.

Wanda Maximoff (Scarlet Witch)

Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch, is a mutant with the ability to manipulate reality and cast spells. Her powers stem from a combination of her mutant abilities and her connection to the mystical energies of the universe. Scarlet Witch’s powers include reality warping, energy projection, and the ability to manipulate probability. She is also able to cast spells that can alter the physical world around her.

Loki

Loki, the God of Mischief, is a powerful magic user with a long and complicated history in the Marvel Universe. As a member of the Asgardian race, Loki possesses an array of magical abilities, including shape-shifting, illusion casting, and the ability to manipulate energy. He is also a master of manipulation and trickery, often using his wit and charm to get what he wants.

Brother Voodoo

Jericho Drumm, also known as Brother Voodoo, is a Haitian houngan (voodoo priest) who possesses an array of mystical powers. He is able to communicate with spirits and calls upon the powers of the Loa (spirits of Haitian Voodoo) to cast spells and perform feats of magic. Brother Voodoo is also a skilled fighter, often using his martial arts skills in conjunction with his magic to defeat his enemies.

Dormammu

Dormammu is a powerful interdimensional entity that rules over the Dark Dimension. He possesses vast magical powers, including the ability to manipulate reality and create illusions. Dormammu is also able to possess other beings and control them, and he has a vast army of demons at his disposal. He is a formidable foe to any hero who dares to cross his path.

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Magik

Illyana Rasputin, also known as Magik, is a mutant with the ability to teleport through time and space. She is also a sorceress with the ability to cast spells and manipulate magical energies. Magik’s powers stem from her connection to the mystical realm of Limbo, which she rules over as its sorceress supreme. She is also skilled in combat, often using her sword and martial arts skills to defeat her enemies.

Baron Mordo

Karl Mordo, also known as Baron Mordo, is a powerful sorcerer and long-time enemy of Doctor Strange. Like Strange, Mordo was trained by the Ancient One in the ways of magic, but he chose to use his powers for evil. Mordo possesses a wide range of magical abilities, including the ability to manipulate energy and create illusions. He is also skilled in hand-to-hand combat and is a formidable adversary.

Hela

Hela’s black power magic is derived from her connection to the realm of Hel, the Norse underworld. It grants her immense power, allowing her to control the dead, summon spirits, and manipulate reality itself. Her powers are fueled by death and destruction, making her one of the most dangerous villains in the Marvel Universe.

In conclusion, Marvel comics and the MCU are filled with characters who use magic as their primary power source. From Doctor Strange, Wanda Maximoff, and Loki to lesser-known characters like Brother Voodoo and Magik, these characters bring a unique and fascinating element to the Marvel Universe. Magic allows for a variety of storytelling possibilities, from alternate dimensions to time travel to even bringing characters back from the dead. The use of magic also adds a sense of mystery and wonder to the Marvel Universe, with its own set of rules and limitations. As the MCU continues to expand and evolve, we can expect to see even more magical characters and stories in the future.

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10 Hilarious Marvel Characters

If you’re a fan of Marvel comics, then you know that the universe is not just about superheroes and their epic battles against villains. It’s also about the humor that is woven into the storylines, characters, and dialogue. From wisecracking heroes to eccentric villains, Marvel has given us some incredibly hilarious characters over the years. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the funniest Marvel characters that will have you laughing out loud. These characters may not be the most powerful or the most popular, but they will definitely leave a lasting impression with their humor and comedic timing. So, if you’re ready for some comic relief, read on to discover the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe.

Marvel Comics has given us some of the most iconic superheroes and villains of all time, but it has also introduced us to some incredibly hilarious characters. From wisecracking heroes to eccentric villains, Marvel has a knack for bringing the funny. Here are 10 hilarious Marvel characters that will make you laugh out loud.

Deadpool

Deadpool, also known as Wade Wilson, is undoubtedly one of the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. He’s a mercenary with a twisted sense of humor, and he never takes anything too seriously. His wit and sarcasm make him an incredibly entertaining character to read, and his fourth-wall-breaking abilities only add to his comedic value.

Spider-Man

Spider-Man, aka Peter Parker, is known for his quick quips and one-liners. He’s a classic wise-cracking superhero who uses humor to disarm his enemies and lighten the mood. His relatable personality and funny comebacks make him a fan favorite and a staple of Marvel comics.

Rocket Raccoon

Rocket Raccoon may be small, but his personality is anything but. This foul-mouthed, gun-toting raccoon is always ready with a snarky comment and a clever insult. His sarcasm and wit make him one of the most entertaining members of the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Groot

Groot, Rocket Raccoon’s sidekick, is a tree-like alien who only knows how to say “I am Groot.” Despite his limited vocabulary, Groot manages to be one of the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. His innocent charm and child-like personality make him endearing, and his comedic timing is spot on.

Ant-Man

Ant-Man, aka Scott Lang, is a superhero who can shrink down to the size of an ant. His ability to change his size is the source of many hilarious moments, as he uses it to sneak around undetected and pull off elaborate heists. His goofball personality and humorous antics make him one of Marvel’s most lovable heroes.

Loki

Loki, the god of mischief, is known for his mischievous personality and his ability to cause chaos wherever he goes. His cunning wit and manipulative ways make him a fascinating character, but it’s his sense of humor that makes him truly unforgettable. Loki’s dry wit and sarcastic comments always bring a smile to readers’ faces.

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Howard the Duck

Howard the Duck is a sarcastic, cigar-smoking anthropomorphic duck who was transported to Earth from his home planet. His dry wit and cynical outlook on life make him one of Marvel’s most unique and entertaining characters. Despite being a duck, Howard manages to be relatable and hilarious.

Squirrel Girl

Squirrel Girl, aka Doreen Green, is a superhero with the ability to communicate with squirrels. Her cheerful personality and quirky sense of humor make her one of the most endearing and funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. She’s known for taking down some of the most powerful villains in the Marvel Universe, often with the help of her squirrel sidekick, Tippy-Toe.

She-Hulk

She-Hulk, aka Jennifer Walters, is a lawyer and superhero who gains incredible strength and durability after receiving a blood transfusion from her cousin, Bruce Banner (aka the Hulk). She-Hulk is known for breaking the fourth wall and addressing readers directly, which adds to her comedic value. Her sassy personality and irreverent humor make her one of Marvel’s most entertaining heroes.

MODOK

MODOK, aka Mental Organism Designed Only for Killing, is a villain with a giant head and a tiny body. He’s one of the funniest Marvel villains, thanks to his ridiculous appearance and his propensity to monologue. MODOK’s delusions of grandeur and over-the-top villainy make him an absurd and hilarious character. His appearance alone is enough to make readers laugh, but his outlandish schemes and bizarre personality cement his status as one of Marvel’s funniest villains.

In conclusion, Marvel Comics has no shortage of hilarious characters. From the wisecracking heroes to the eccentric villains, these characters add a lighthearted touch to the often intense and action-packed world of superhero comics. Whether it’s Deadpool’s twisted humor or Groot’s innocent charm, these characters are sure to make you laugh out loud. So the next time you’re looking for a good laugh, pick up a Marvel comic and enjoy the comedic genius of these unforgettable characters.

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Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3: Where, Who, Why, and How

In the world of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise, Gamora, played by Zoe Saldaña, was presumed dead after being thrown off a cliff on the planet Vormir in Avengers: Infinity War. However, in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, she is back, albeit as an alternate version of herself. The rules of time travel in Avengers: Endgame created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Gamora still exists. This alternate version of Gamora, along with her sister Nebula, was kidnapped by Alternate Thanos and his loyal assassin daughters, and they followed the Avengers back to the main MCU timeline. Main Timeline Nebula killed her alternate self and convinced Alternate Gamora to fight for the good guys. Although Alternate Gamora is alive and well in the main timeline, she declines to join the Guardians as she has never met them or fallen in love with Star-Lord.

Gamora, played by Zoe Saldaña, is a pivotal character in the Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise, but she was thought to be dead after the events of Avengers: Infinity War. So, how is Gamora alive in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3? Let’s take a look at where she is, who she is, why she is alive, and how she is back.

Who is Gamora in the MCU?

Gamora, the deadliest woman in the galaxy, was introduced in Guardians of the Galaxy in 2014. She was adopted by Thanos after he conquered her planet and killed 50% of its population. Gamora defected from Thanos’ forces and teamed up with the Guardians to keep the Kree general Ronan the Accuser from obtaining the Power Stone. She also encouraged her sister Nebula to defect from Thanos as well.

Where is Gamora in the main MCU timeline?

Technically, Gamora is dead. Thanos abducted her and threw her off a cliff on the planet Vormir, as the sacrifice required to obtain the Soul Stone during the events of Avengers: Infinity War.

Gamora | Marvel Studios’ Legends

Why is Gamora alive again?

Zoe Saldaña is under contract to play Gamora, and her character is an essential part of the Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise. But in-universe, the rules of time travel in Avengers: Endgame created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Gamora still exists.

How is Gamora alive in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3?

During the time heist in Endgame, Nebula and War Machine traveled back in time to intercept the Power Stone before the Guardians, Kree, or Thanos obtained it. However, they created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Thanos became aware that there was a timeline in which he gathered all the Infinity Stones and snapped half of the universe dead, which caused the Avengers to time-travel to collect the Infinity Stones. After kidnapping the main timeline Nebula, Alternate Thanos and his loyal assassin daughters, Alternate Gamora and Nebula, followed them back to the main MCU timeline. Main Timeline Nebula killed her alternate self and convinced Alternate Gamora to fight for the good guys. After Iron Man sacrificed himself to snap away all of “Thanos’ forces,” Alternate Gamora remained in the main MCU timeline but declined to join up with the Guardians, having never met them or fallen in love with Star-Lord.

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In conclusion, while we don’t know what that means for Alternate Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, we know she is in it.

It will be interesting to see how Alternate Gamora’s storyline unfolds in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Given her unique perspective and experiences, there are endless possibilities for where her character arc could go. Perhaps she will struggle to adapt to the new timeline, or maybe she will become a pivotal player in the battle against the villainous Adam Warlock.

Whatever the case may be, fans are eagerly anticipating the release of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and the opportunity to see how Alternate Gamora fits into the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe. With the film set to be directed by James Gunn and featuring a star-studded cast, it is sure to be a thrilling and emotional ride for both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.