Why Fans Think Andrew Garfield Plays The Most Comics-Accurate Spider-Man
"Spider-Man: No Way Home" probably felt like a fever dream for most fans of the Marvel Comics character. Having all three versions of Peter Parker in one film was quite the sight to behold, so much so that it earned the movie a spot as the sixth-highest grossing of all time (via Box Office Mojo). However, "No Way Home" would also stoke the fire in a Spider-Man debate that has been going on for some time now — who plays the character best? As we know, Tobey Maguire's portrayal of Peter started everything back in the Sam Raimi trilogy, and "Spider-Man 2" still is considered one of the best superhero movies of all time (via The Independent). As with the actors who have played Batman, anyone who was a kid around the time a certain actor was playing Spider-Man will often argue that person did it best. That's what is so incredible about massive characters like Spider-Man — they make us feel like a kid again.
In the same vein, kids today and those who were growing up during 2016's "Captain America: Civil War" will likely note Tom Holland as their favorite Spider-Man. Then, of course, there are Andrew Garfield's "The Amazing Spider-Man" movies, squeezing themselves in between Maguire's and Holland's portrayals, failing to receive a third and possible fourth movie due to poor reception after "The Amazing Spider-Man 2" (via Collider).
Although there seemed to be disapproval at the time, many fans think Andrew Garfield actually plays the most comic-accurate Spider-Man for an important reason.
Fans believe Andrew captures the humor from Spider-Man in Marvel Comics
According to a recent conversation on Reddit, some Spider-Man fans think Andrew Garfield's portrayal is the most comic-accurate given the quips, "trolling," and overall humor his version of Peter Parker has while wearing the costume. U/ranfromname explained, "That's what Andrew has, that original spidey sense of humour. Also, his moves are kinda different, like he's feeling really comfortable in his body and moves effortlessly, has restlessness and energy, even as Peter Parker. I like him." Other fans agreed, noting that Garfield is ultimately their favorite live-action Spidey. U/Soulburner74 said they hear Garfield's voice when they're reading comic panels of the character. "Exactly, When I see the comic panel of him reading the fat jokes to Fisk, I hear Andrew's voice cause that's exactly what he would say and do lol."
However, some fans, like u/logic2187, think that this sense of humor makes him only a good Spider-Man, not necessarily the best Peter Parker. "I think he's the best live action spiderman. Not the best live action Peter Parker, but the best spiderman." They go on to say that Garfield reflects a sort of nerdy confidence in the suit that any kid would likely have if they were granted superpowers out of nowhere.
This admiration for Garfield's portrayal of the character due to his understanding of Spider-Man's humor from the comics has continued to rise after "Spider-Man: No Way Home" and may possibly even lead to a revived "The Amazing Spider-Man 3."
Will fans' appreciation of Garfield's Peter lead to his third solo film?
Andrew Garfield has been asked in a few interviews since the release of "Spider-Man: No Way Home" if he would return as the character for a possible "The Amazing Spider-Man 3." While speaking with Variety, the actor did explain that he would be open to returning to play his version of Peter Parker "if it felt right." Garfield explained, "I would try to borrow Peter Parker's ethical framework in that, if there was an opportunity to step back in and tell more of that story, I would have to feel very sure and certain in myself." So it seems, according to Garfield's comments, there is nothing in the works as of yet, but he would play the character again if it was the right moment.
Sony has responded to fan desires for "The Amazing Spider-Man 3" only in a humorous light, as it tweeted back in March with a post about "Peter #3," aka Garfield, "Yes, we've seen the hashtag. No, we don't decide which movies get made. We're just the social team." Some fans in the comments on the post noted that Sony is a tease for acknowledging the fan campaign for the movie and not giving a direct answer as to whether "The Amazing Spider-Man 3" will happen or not.
Either way, fans are still appreciating Garfield's Peter now more than ever, it seems like, mostly thanks to "No Way Home" being what it is.