Hollywood's favorite comic book geek, Kevin Smith, is finally getting his shot at Amazing Spider-Man—20 years later than planned. For fans who remember the disastrous delays of Spider-Man/Black Cat: The Evil That Men Do, this feels like redemption. But can Smith, the indie darling behind Clerks and Guardian Devil, deliver a Spidey story worth the wait?
The Rocky Road to Spider-Man
Back in 2002, Marvel handed Smith the keys to Amazing Spider-Man—a dream gig for any writer. But Hollywood schedules clashed with comic deadlines, turning his six-issue arc into a three-year slog with The Evil That Men Do. Fans were furious. Marvel even floated a Marvel Knights Spidey series, but it never happened.
Now, Smith returns with Giant-Size Amazing Spider-Man #1 (June 11, 2025), teaming Spidey with the Fantastic Four ahead of their MCU debut in The Fantastic Four: First Steps. Paired with artist Giuseppe Camuncoli, Smith's story promises fresh energy—but will history repeat itself?
Why This Matters
Smith's Daredevil: Guardian Devil (1998) reshaped Matt Murdock's world, proving he gets Marvel's street-level heroes. But Spider-Man? That's a different beast. Peter Parker's wit, heart, and struggles demand a writer who can balance humor and tragedy. Smith's past Spidey work was uneven—will this be the definitive take fans deserve?
Alongside Smith's story, Al Ewing and Mark Buckingham contribute a Spidey tale diving into the hero's legacy. If Smith stumbles, their backup might save the issue.
The Big Question: Can Smith Stick the Landing?
Marvel's taking a risk here. Smith's a brilliant storyteller (Clerks, Mallrats), but comics demand discipline. If he delivers, this could be a redemption arc for his Marvel career. If not? Well, let's just hope The Evil That Men Do wasn't a preview.
As a lifelong Spider-Man fan, I'm cautiously optimistic. Kevin Smith loves these characters—his passion is undeniable. But passion alone doesn't make great comics. His Daredevil run worked because it was raw, personal, and timely. Spider-Man needs that same magic.
If Smith nails the humor, heart, and high stakes, this could be a modern classic. If not? Well, at least we'll always have Guardian Devil.
Do you think Kevin Smith's Spider-Man will be worth the 20-year wait? Or is this destined to be another missed swing?
