A Complete Guide to the Web-Slinger on Screen
Spider-Man is one of the most beloved superheroes of all time — a character who is equal parts awkward teen, brilliant mind, and courageous hero. Since his first comic appearance in Amazing Fantasy #15 (1962), Spider-Man has swung across comics, animation, video games, and, of course, the big screen. In this post, we cover every major Spider-Man film, the actors who played him, his relationships, enemies, and more.
Spider-Man’s real name is Peter Parker, a teenage science nerd raised in Queens, New York. Orphaned at a young age, Peter lives with his kind Aunt May and Uncle Ben, who shape his values. A pivotal moment in his life is the death of Uncle Ben — a tragedy that occurs after Peter, flush with his new powers, fails to stop a robber. That very criminal later kills Ben. It’s this moment that cements his core belief:
“With great power comes great responsibility.”
This tragedy echoes through every film adaptation and fuels Peter’s drive to protect others.
Peter is bitten by a genetically enhanced spider (or radioactive in earlier versions), giving him:
He learns the harsh lesson that power must be used responsibly — and that being a hero comes with sacrifice.
Tobey’s Peter is earnest and emotional, navigating college, villains, and responsibility.
Andrew’s Peter is witty, tech-savvy, and carries the pain of losing Gwen Stacy. A more modern, edgy version.
Tom’s Peter is the youngest and most “in-the-action” hero, mentored by Tony Stark and tied closely to the Avengers.
Kirsten Dunst (Raimi Trilogy)
The classic “girl next door” and Peter’s long-time love. The famous upside-down kiss in the rain that wow all spidey fans!
Emma Stone (Amazing Spider-Man)
Smart, brave, and tragically killed during a battle with the Green Goblin and it broke Peter trying to save her.
Zendaya (MCU)
Not Mary Jane, but an original character with the same initials — smart, sarcastic, and Peter’s emotional anchor.
Spider-Man has become a cinematic and cultural icon — one who grows with each generation. Whether it’s Tobey’s heartfelt responsibility, Andrew’s emotional depth, or Tom’s youthful earnestness, every Spider-Man brings something unique to the web-slinging legacy. And with multiverse stories now in play, the possibilities are endless.